Japanese breakup song ranking [2026]

Maplesupittsu22rank/position

Spitz / Kaede

A ballad that sings of the resolve to live on with the pain of parting.

Those warm days when even casual exchanges with a loved one—and the ache in your heart—were all wrapped in their smile.

Yet even as the protagonist accepts a daily life that will never return, the way they move forward as if embracing a voice is deeply moving.

After being included on the album “Fake Fur,” it was released in July 1998 as a double A-side single with “Spica.” It has been used in numerous dramas, including as an insert song for Fuji TV’s “Over Time” and in NTV’s “Zambi.” It’s a song that gently stays by the side of anyone who can’t stop dwelling on a lost love or who can’t forget someone dear.

Masamune Kusano’s clear, translucent vocals deliver a ray of hope within the sorrow.

SolaninASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION23rank/position

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION 'Soranin'

A gentle-toned guitar, a powerful bass, drums that feel like footsteps, and vocals that murmur with a sense of helplessness.

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s “Soranin” is a track whose full-band, powerful sound gives you the courage to move on from heartbreak.

The lyrics are also great, and as you listen, it can feel like the song is voicing your own pain.

I hope this song helps you take a step toward your next love.

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tear(s)KANA-BOON24rank/position

KANA-BOON “Namida” Music Video

This song, which sings of the aching pain of heartbreak, can be considered one of KANA-BOON’s signature works.

Included on the album “NAMiDA,” the track was released in September 2017.

It delicately portrays the emotions of a man after a breakup, with lingering attachment and regret pressing on the chest.

Maguro Taniguchi’s vocals amplify the poignancy, piercing deeply into the listener’s heart.

It’s recommended for those carrying the pain of parting or those who want to reflect on past relationships.

Listening to this piece and overlaying it with your own experiences may help you sort out your feelings.

I became someone else’s girlfriend.wacci25rank/position

wacci “I Became Someone Else’s Girlfriend” Music Video

It’s wacci’s signature song, which spread through word of mouth on social media and resonated with many.

While acknowledging the maturity and kindness of her new partner, it delicately portrays a woman’s wavering heart as she can’t help recalling the unpretentious days spent with her ex.

Beneath the words she tells herself to affirm her current happiness, you can feel a lingering attachment that won’t fade, and it’s heart-wrenching.

Released as a digital-only track in August 2018, its realistic depiction became a hot topic, and it has continued to be loved—surpassing 100 million total streams by June 2021.

On nights when you can’t sort out your feelings because you find yourself comparing your current partner with your ex, try singing it with all your emotions.

The bittersweet melody will wash away the ache in your heart along with your tears.

Rejected-Love GirlSayuri26rank/position

Sanketsu Shoujo Sayuri “Furaregai Girl” MV (Full ver) — Song provided and produced by RADWIMPS’ Yojiro Noda

A heartrending song that pierces the heart with the pain of heartbreak.

Sayuri’s clear, transparent voice delicately conveys the complex emotions of a woman who’s been rejected.

Produced by RADWIMPS’ Yojiro Noda, the track was released in May 2017 as her 4th single.

It came out from Ariola Japan in three editions: two limited first-press versions and a regular edition.

A collaboration track with the iOS and Android game “Shoumetsu Toshi” is also included as a coupling song.

It’s a piece that serves as an emotional support, standing by those who, while carrying the pain of heartbreak, are trying to move forward.

OrangeSMAP27rank/position

SMAP – Orange

It’s a ballad that moves the heart not only with the sorrow of parting but also with lyrics brimming with deep gratitude toward the other person.

Instead of saying “goodbye” to a departing lover, it concludes with the word “thank you,” a turn that can’t help but bring listeners to tears.

Although this song was included as the B-side to the single “Lion Heart,” released in August 2000, it triumphed at No.

2 in the fan vote for the best-of album “SMAP 25 YEARS,” ahead of many of their major hits.

There’s even an anecdote that the ending of the lyrics was changed during recording—truly a masterpiece worthy of being called “the most famous B-side in Japan.” Listen to it alone at dusk, and you’ll be wrapped in a tender, wistful feeling and find the courage to move on to your next love.

Cheer up!Takeuchi Mariya28rank/position

Mariya Takeuchi – Cheer Up (Official Music Video)

A classic by Mariya Takeuchi whose refreshing melody and powerful lyrics resonate in the heart.

It’s a song that gently supports those who’ve experienced heartbreak or setbacks.

Released in August 1987 and used in a SEIKO commercial, this piece has continued to stay close to many people’s hearts.

Mariya Takeuchi’s warm vocals blend beautifully with the sophisticated sound produced by Tatsuro Yamashita.

It’s the perfect track for times when you feel lost in life or want to encourage someone special.

Why not listen to this song and find hope for tomorrow?