Japanese breakup song ranking [2026]

OrangeSMAP29rank/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.

GraduationMy Hair is Bad30rank/position

My Hair is Bad – Graduation (Official Video)

A track by My Hair is Bad that tells the story of two people sensing changes in their relationship amid the bustle of a station and the cityscape.

It was included on the EP “Jidai o Atsumete,” released in May 2016, and was produced as a kind of sequel to the previous song “Makka.” From the perspective of a timid, awkward young person, the song vividly portrays the growing distance between former lovers.

Its theme is a farewell as a rite of passage—putting a period on a relationship and moving on to the next stage.

Driven by a fast-paced 8-beat and dynamic arrangement, Tomomi Shiiki’s husky voice conveys the ebb and flow of emotion.

It’s a song that stays with you when you want to put an end to an ambiguous relationship with an ex and need the courage to face forward and start walking.

Cheer up!Takeuchi Mariya31rank/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?

One more time,One more chanceYamazaki Masayoshi32rank/position

Masayoshi Yamazaki – “One more time, One more chance” MUSIC VIDEO [4K Quality]

This is the song used to accentuate the calm atmosphere in the Suntory Maker’s Mark commercial, which portrays the unchanging deliciousness of the whiskey through a character played by Shun Oguri who is immortal.

The track is also famous as the theme song for the feature-length anime 5 Centimeters per Second, and it conveys a bittersweet sentiment over the sound of an acoustic guitar.

The lyrics honestly express memories of the past and the regrets tied to them, as well as the pain of wishing for “just one more time,” even while knowing it can never come true.

The part about instinctively looking for someone’s figure somewhere—a feeling many can relate to—also heightens the sense of poignancy.

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kappamaki

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wedgeOku Hanako33rank/position

Kusabi (Wedge) by Hanako Oku

A piano ballad by Hanako Oku that quietly embraces the inescapable pain of parting.

Cherished since her indie days and lovingly passed down in her performances, it’s a song that has been adored by fans for many years.

Two shadows lit by streetlights after the last train has gone, a final kiss shared even as they know they’ll never meet again.

Lyrics that portray such helpless scenes are sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.

The song gained popularity through word of mouth and was finally released as a single in July 2015, marking the 10th anniversary of her debut.

It was later included on the album “Prism.” On nights when you’re sinking into sorrow with no way out, why not surrender yourself to this piece and let the tears flow?

Christmas songback number34rank/position

back number – “Christmas Song” Music Video

Despite its Christmas-like cute timbre and beautiful string melody, this back number song portrays a bittersweet romance.

It was used as the theme song for the drama “5→9: From Five to Nine,” starring Satomi Ishihara and Tomohisa Yamashita.

While struggling with feelings that are hard to convey, the narrator feels jealous of couples getting carried away by the Christmas mood.

It captures classic Christmas situations everyone can relate to.

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Love StoryAmuro Namie35rank/position

[Love Story] (stage-MIX 2011–2018) | Namie Amuro | chd

This song, which portrays complex emotions, beautifully expresses both the pain of heartbreak and the hope that follows.

Released in December 2011 as the theme song for a Fuji TV Monday 9 p.m.

drama, it became a major hit.

The music video filmed in London is also striking.

Namie Amuro’s powerful yet delicate vocals perfectly enhance the lyrics that evoke the end of a romance and the start of something new.

Its approachable melody makes it easy to try at karaoke, so it’s recommended for those who’ve experienced heartbreak or are standing at a crossroads in life.

The heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody are sure to soothe your soul.