Japanese breakup song ranking [2026]

I loved (it/you)erica15rank/position

erica – “I Loved You” Full PV

A ballad by singer-songwriter Erica that weaves together the ache of heartbreaking unrequited love and the feelings left unspoken, set to the sound of piano.

The sorrow of a breakup and the pain of parting are delicately expressed through her clear, translucent voice.

Released in November 2015 and included on the album “Koku-uta 2: Things I Want to Tell You Before Graduation,” this song stands by those who have experienced parting, offering the courage to face forward while embracing the pain.

It will gently envelop the hearts of those who cannot accept the end of a romance, or who carry the regret of not having conveyed their feelings before it was over.

I like you, but it seems you don’t really like me.back number16rank/position

Bokuwa Kiminokotoga Sukidakedo Kimiwa Bokuo Betsuni Sukijyanaimitai

This is one of back number’s signature songs, written straight from the heart about the ache of unrequited love.

Even the long title conveys the protagonist’s painful feelings as their love goes unanswered.

In the chorus, the powerlessness of facing the reality that the other person doesn’t have feelings for them is expressed in plain, direct words.

This track was included on the album Chandelier, released in December 2015.

It’s recommended for those who’ve experienced heartbreak or are currently in one-sided love.

If you listen when you want to revisit painful memories of love, you’ll likely find many parts to empathize with.

Girls don’t cry.katahira rina17rank/position

Rina Katahira - Girls Don’t Cry (Music Video)

It’s a love song where tenderness and strength coexist.

It’s a track by Rina Katahira, a singer-songwriter from Fukushima Prefecture, released in 2014 as her second single.

The down-to-earth lyrics resonated with many people.

Even while hurt by love, it carries the resolve to greet a new day with a smile.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to overcome the pain of heartbreak and look forward.

Be sure to add it to your playlist.

First LoveUtada Hikaru18rank/position

Hikaru Utada – First Love

A youthful love song by Hikaru Utada, whose lyrical piano tones and crystalline vocals sink deep into the heart.

The sorrow of parting and precious memories are woven together with care, and the recollection of first love returns like a film playing inside your mind.

Many will relate to the protagonist’s feeling that, even if a new romance comes along after the end of one, they can’t forget their first love.

Released in March 1999 on the album “First Love,” it was also used as the theme song for the drama “Majo no Jōken” broadcast the same year.

It’s a song that truly stays by the side of anyone who has experienced farewell with someone dear and is trying to move forward while holding those memories deep in their heart.

planetariumOtsuka Ai19rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Planetarium

A heart-stirring ballad that projects the ache of love onto the stars in the night sky, this piece is marked by Ai Otsuka’s delicate vocals and lyrical piano.

Memories of a lover and the wistfulness of time gone by are woven into the beautiful imagery of starry skies and planetariums, resonating deeply with listeners.

Used as the theme song for the drama “Koi no Karasawagi” and included on the album “LOVE COOK,” it has continued to soothe many hearts since its release in September 2005.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the stars on a solitary night—recommended for those looking to heal the pain of heartbreak or to immerse themselves in cherished memories with someone special.

366 daysHY20rank/position

366 Days (Official Duet Version)

This is a ballad about the lingering feelings of being unable to forget a lost love.

Included on HY’s 2008 album “HeartY,” the song was used as the theme for Fuji TV’s drama and film “Akai Ito.” Its gentle melody, highlighted by a memorable piano line, carries lyrics that reflect on the memories of a lover who remains in the heart.

The duet version by vocalists Izumi Nakasone and Hideyuki Shinzato is also captivating, with the interplay of male and female voices bringing out the nuances of emotion even more vividly.

It’s a recommended track for those who have experienced parting with someone dear or are trying to overcome the pain.

Even if you went and became somebody’s damn girlfriendtensai bando21rank/position

Genius Band / Even If You End Up Becoming Someone Else’s Girlfriend

A heartbreak song whose delicate, piano-centered sound and wistful vocals sink deep into the heart.

It carefully portrays the feelings of a protagonist who continues to hold on to unchanging affection, even as the person they love finds happiness with someone else.

The lingering emotions—tough on the surface yet unable to let go—are expressed throughout, resonating deeply with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.

The track is included on Tensai Band’s first album, “Ein to Stein,” released in April 2014.

In May 2021, it was also issued as a 7-inch single, winning support from music fans alongside its coupling track, “Sunset Street.” It’s a song that stays by your side when you can’t recover from the pain of a breakup or when you want to overcome parting with someone precious.