Japanese breakup song ranking [2026]

Regretsumika78rank/position

sumika / Regret [Music Video]

A bittersweet love song by sumika that empathizes with the pain of heartbreak.

Within its refreshing guitar rock sound, lingering feelings and regrets toward a former lover seep through.

The delicate lyrics portray a deep affection—wishing to hear a lover’s voice and finding even the smallest gestures endearing—resonating powerfully with listeners.

First released in June 2014 as a live-venue-exclusive work on Dress farm #1, the track was later included on the mini-album I co Y in November of the same year.

It’s a heartwarming song that stays close to those suffering from heartbreak or anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear.

It’ll get stained.Chatto Monchī79rank/position

Chatmonchy “I’ll Be Dyed” Music Video

If you’re looking to indulge in a slightly sentimental mood on a chilly autumn night, I recommend a wistful mid-tempo number from Chatmonchy.

Released in November 2008, this song poignantly conveys the loneliness of city nights and the tender ache of stretching yourself to do something unfamiliar.

The gradient of a heart that has lost something precious and is slowly dyed a different color seems to resonate in your chest, carried by Eriko Hashimoto’s aching vocals.

This was the band’s ninth single and marked their first entry into the Oricon Top 10.

It was also used as the theme song for the drama “Tonsura” and included on the classic album “Kokuhaku” (Confession).

Sing it earnestly at karaoke, and memories of your youth might just come flooding back.

BelieveNishino Kana80rank/position

Kana Nishino “Believe” MV Full

A song by Kana Nishino that leaves a strong impression: after boldly transforming her look and starting to work on herself, the protagonist spots her ex looking happy, feels shaken, yet resolves to move forward with a positive outlook.

Alongside its up-tempo sound, the message emphasizing the importance of believing in yourself resonates deeply.

Released in June 2013, the track was used in House Wellness Foods’ C1000 commercial and is included on the album Love Collection ~mint~.

It’s a gentle push for anyone healing from heartbreak who wants to believe in their future, and for those ready to take a new step forward.

breakup songOkazaki Taiiku81rank/position

Okazaki Taiiku “Heartbreak Song” Music Video

This song, which portrays the pain of heartbreak and the journey back from it, gives voice to the feelings of a protagonist who has gone through a breakup as grand as a fireworks display.

It poignantly lists places filled with memories of a lover—movie theaters, amusement parks, aquariums—then depicts how they “burn down” over time.

Yet the lyrics also blend humor with a sense of strength, encouraging oneself to stop brooding and face forward.

By staying close to the listener’s heart, this track offers the courage to overcome heartbreak.

It’s a unique breakup song that never gives you time to wallow, showcasing Okazaki Taiiku’s keen eye for detail and distinctive sensibility.

KanadeSukima Suichi82rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

“Kanade,” Sukima Switch’s second single, released in March 2004.

It’s a signature song for Sukima Switch and a classic ballad that will surely continue to be loved for years to come.

It’s also known for coloring numerous memorable scenes, such as being featured in the film “Rough” and serving as the ending theme on the final day of “Nettou Koshien” in 2006.

This piece carries not only the sorrow of parting, but also a strong determination to connect with the future through song.

Its earnest message and warm melody are sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced saying goodbye to someone dear.

A song that brings tears to your eyes—perfect for a sentimental night.

single bedSha ran Q83rank/position

Sharam Q “Single Bed” (Music Video)

This is a wistful ballad that poignantly sings of lingering feelings for a former lover, a classic that gently teaches the preciousness of love.

As the protagonist looks back on memories left behind on a single bed, they realize that a romance once taken for granted was in fact more valuable than jewels, weaving a moving drama.

Released by Sharam Q in October 1994, the song became a major hit, ranking 24th on the year-end charts.

It was also used as the ending theme for the anime D.N.A²: They Were Once a Thing, and included on the album Inferiority Complex.

It’s the perfect track for reminiscing about youthful love while sharing memories with friends.

not enoughwacci84rank/position

wacci 'Tarina i' Music Video

This is a heartbreak song overflowing with poignancy, capturing the emotional turmoil of trying to sever lingering feelings for an ex.

Featured on wacci’s 2019 album Empathy, the track stands out for its lyrics written from a woman’s perspective.

Though she still has feelings, the protagonist’s struggle to choose a clean break in order to move forward is deeply affecting.

Positioned as a side story to “Betsu no Hito no Kanojo ni Natta yo,” a one-take recording was also released in 2020.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who’s gone from mutual love to one-sided, or who wants to move on but can’t quite bring themselves to do it.