Kobukuro Ballad Songs: Popular Song Rankings [2026]

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Kobukuro – Tsubomi

An emotionally moving song that gently sings of the sorrow of losing a mother and the hope for the future.

Its simple arrangement centered on acoustic guitar and a wistful yet warm melody resonates with many listeners.

Released by Kobukuro in March 2007, it was also used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad.” Furthermore, in March 2008 it was selected as the entrance march for the opening ceremony of the 80th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, gaining nationwide recognition.

Embracing the feelings we have for family and loved ones, this piece is perfect for moments when your heart feels close to breaking or when you want to strongly remember someone.

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Kobukuro “Red Thread”

This is a long ballad that carefully depicts the feelings of a young person entering a rough patch with their partner, unfolding over seven minutes.

As a year passes, the protagonist’s heart gradually starts to look forward, and that progression is portrayed in a striking way.

Included on the album “Root of my mind,” which Kobukuro produced soon after forming, the song gently conveys the importance of trust in love.

It’s recommended for those who, while struggling with a relationship with someone important, still want to cherish their feelings for each other.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing with all your heart at solo karaoke or in the company of close friends.

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[Pro performance] Mirai — Kobukuro — Film “orange” — Piano

Mirai is a song by Kobukuro, performed by Shunsuke Kuroda and Kentaro Kobuchi, and it was used as the theme song for the Toho film Orange.

Released in 2015, the track reached No.

4 on the Oricon Singles Chart and enjoyed a long run on the charts alongside the film’s success.

The lyrics—vowing to support you even though my feelings won’t reach you—are heartbreakingly poignant.

The intro features a distinctive, key-shifting, almost mysterious sound, with the piano performance standing out as well.

If you like it when you listen, try playing it yourself!

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Hamada Takuya

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Kobukuro – Ryūsei (Meteor)

A ballad you’ll want to listen to under the starry sky.

Released in November 2010 as Kobukuro’s 19th single, its lyrics—likening the bond between two people to the stars—really resonate.

Even when apart, that sense of being connected is expressed through Kobukuro’s signature warm harmonies.

Created as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Nagareboshi” (Shooting Star), this track is best enjoyed by the quiet seaside, reminiscing about someone dear.

Why not gaze up at the night sky and listen with the feeling of making a wish on a shooting star?

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Anri Kumaki – “Sakura” (cover of Kobukuro’s “Sakura”)

They are a musical duo formed in 1998, consisting of Shunsuke Kuroda and Kentaro Kobuchi.

With numerous hit songs like “Tsubomi” and “Koko ni Shika Sakanai Hana,” they are beloved by all generations.

“Sakura,” released in 2005 as their 12th single, was used as a TV drama theme song and won the Gold Award at the 47th Japan Record Awards.

It’s also a karaoke staple—familiar and easy for everyone to sing.

A masterpiece befitting spring, it’s a moving song you’ll want to listen to again and again.

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kurichan

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Kobukuro - Together for Eternity

This is “Eien ni Tomo ni” (Together Forever), a song about the eternal love of two people.

It’s a hit by the folk duo Kobukuro, released in 2004, following their success with “Tsubomi.” It’s popular as a wedding staple—celebrities have even performed it as a piano-and-vocal piece at ceremonies.

The song conveys the idea of building a new life with someone important to you—and that it’s not always simple or pristine.

It’s a perfect track not only for when you decide to get married yourself, but also when a friend is getting married!

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Yoimachi Jēn

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YELL ~Yell~ Kobukuro

This is a heartwarming ballad that celebrates the start of a new journey.

Its gently enveloping melody and lyrics that are both powerful and warm leave a strong impression.

Released in March 2001, it was Kobukuro’s major-label debut single, and it was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “Ucchikuru!?” as well as in commercials for Tokio Marine & Nichido.

Like a small bud blooming in spring, the song carries an encouraging message for those setting off into a new environment.

Recommended as BGM for graduation and entrance ceremonies, and as a song to listen to during the season of farewells and new beginnings.

It’s a warm piece that gently gives listeners a supportive push forward.