Kobukuro’s Tearjerkers, Cry-Your-Eyes-Out Songs, and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]

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Kobukuro – Tsubomi

Released in March 2007 as the 14th single, this masterpiece was newly written as the theme song for the drama “Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad.” Created by Kentaro Kobuchi in memory of his late mother, the song won the Excellent Work Award at the Japan Record Awards and was also selected as the entrance march for the 80th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

Like a tiny bud before it blooms, it warmly portrays the power of growth even in an unfinished state, along with heartfelt gratitude to the loved ones who always cheered us on.

It is a gentle song that, when you remember someone precious you can no longer meet, lets you feel that they are still watching over you from somewhere.

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Kobukuro “Mirai” film “orange” version

A heartwarming ballad dedicated to those who live life with all their might.

This gem of a song layers gentle compassion for others with wishes for the future.

Released in December 2015, it was written as the theme song for the film “orange” and was later used as a tie-in track for the anime series as well.

With Kobukuro’s signature powerful harmonies and a melody line that resonates deeply, this piece leaves a lasting impression.

Performed on a school festival stage, it will tenderly color the bonds with dear friends and the memories of student days.

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Sakura

Kobukuro’s “Sakura,” a quintessential sakura song and a symbol of spring in Japan, was released in 2005 and became a long-running hit.

When spring comes, you can’t help but long for this song, right? I’m sure many people are reminded of memories from their graduation ceremonies.

Its portrayal of the fleeting beauty of falling cherry blossoms and the changing scenery over time is deeply moving, while the powerful splendor of the blossoms in full bloom is equally striking.

And when Mr.

Kobuchi and Mr.

Kuroda’s impossibly beautiful harmonies blend together, it truly brings you to tears…!

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KEI

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GraduationKobukuro4rank/position

Kobukuro “Graduation”

As the title suggests, this piece was written specifically as a graduation song.

It’s a track by the musical duo Kobukuro—known for numerous masterpieces like “Wadachi” and “Tsubomi”—and it was released in 2020 as their 31st single.

The lyrics, which look back on school memories one by one, are moving even for those who aren’t students about to graduate.

Parting ways with friends and teachers is painful, but this touching ballad makes you feel you can turn those feelings into strength and move forward.

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Araki Jakkan

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the red threadKobukuro5rank/position

Kobukuro “Red Thread”

Kobukuro weaves an epic, nearly seven-minute story, singing of a fateful bond with beautiful harmony.

It portrays a year in the lives of two people who once drew a line in their relationship and decided not to see each other for a while.

Some listeners may see themselves in the protagonist, who believes and keeps waiting until the other person’s heart arrives at an answer—reflecting a complex love that continues even after a breakup.

After being included on the indie release “Root of my mind,” this song was covered by Yui Aragaki and also used in a Nippon Life commercial.

Choosing to part ways yet still thinking of the other person somewhere in your heart is proof of how deeply you loved, isn’t it? This song seems to gently embrace that painful feeling and affirm the meaning of taking time apart.

Goodbye, HEROKobukuro6rank/position

Sayonara HERO - Kobukuro

Kobukuro often creates moving songs that empower listeners.

Their track “Sayonara HERO” is another song that gives you strength and even brings a slight tear to your eye.

Released in 2009 on their seventh album, “CALLING,” this song—if you read the lyrics carefully—was dedicated to the late Kiyoshiro Imawano.

The lyrics are filled with heartfelt feelings toward a rock hero, making it a deeply touching piece that strikes right at the heart.

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utatane

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Kobukuro – Ryūsei (Meteor)

This is a song by Kobukuro, a wonderful musical duo from Japan known for their beautiful harmonies.

The gently flowing, drifting chorus feels like floating in a starry sky, and it’s so beautiful that you can’t help but be moved.

It’s a truly lovely classic that makes you want to gaze at the night sky and wish upon the stars.