Mr.Children’s Most Moving Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]

SaturdayMr.Children21rank/position

Mr.Children「Saturday」MUSIC VIDEO

On a May weekend when a refreshing breeze rustles the fresh greenery, it’s the kind of season that makes you want to drive with no destination in mind.

For a soundtrack to that drive, how about some breezy tunes from the beloved band Mr.Children? Their warm perspective—even embracing the languor of an uneventful day off—lightens the hearts of those of us leading busy lives.

Released for streaming in February 2026, this track drew attention as a lead single from their 22nd album, “Ubugoe,” and it became emblematic of the band’s new mode, with a nationwide tour of the same name to match.

Roll down the windows and listen as you cruise along a tree-lined road, and the usual scenery is sure to shine a little brighter.

On a day off when you want to reset your mind and body, be sure to give it a listen.

Starting OverMr.Children22rank/position

Mr.Children「Starting Over」Live from TOUR 2015 REFLECTION

A song by the hugely popular band Mr.Children—so famous it’s no exaggeration to say everyone knows it.

Since it was the theme song of an animated film, its recognition is likely quite high.

Beyond the message in the lyrics themselves, many people probably recall the film’s moving scenes and feel deeply touched.

Seesaw Game: A Song of Brave LoveMr.Children23rank/position

Mr.Children “Seesaw Game ~A Brave Love Song~” MUSIC VIDEO

It’s a song with a mysterious charm that lets you look at yourself from a bird’s-eye view, almost as if you’re teasing yourself, yet still feel encouraged and positive.

I think it’s a song that gives you a push, wholeheartedly affirming the joy of falling in love and of living.

Sakurai’s vocals are also outstanding.

The Summer When You Were ThereMr.Children24rank/position

Mr.Children “The Summer You Were Here” MUSIC VIDEO

This is Mr.

Children’s very first single, known for its refreshing guitar sound.

It blends the melancholy of late summer with faint memories of young love, making listeners’ hearts ache in the sweetest way.

It’s as if the melody itself carries the purity of youth and nostalgia for days gone by.

Released in August 1992, the song was featured again in 2017 as the theme for NTT Docomo’s 25th anniversary commercial, etching itself into many hearts once more.

Play it on a summer drive or by the seaside at dusk, and you’ll be wrapped in a feeling that’s bittersweet yet warm.

It’s also perfect for when you want to bask in the sweet-and-sour memories of youth.

I want to hug you.Mr.Children25rank/position

Mr.Children “I Want to Hold You” Mr.Children [(an imitation) blood orange] Tour

A gemlike love ballad whose sweet, wistful feelings seep gently into the heart.

Created by Mr.Children in December 1992, the song is marked by its key changes—born from producer Takeshi Kobayashi’s idea—and the tender tone of the piano.

Infused with pure affection and devoted sentiment, its melody exudes a grown-up allure perfect for a late-night lounge.

It was featured as an insert song in the Fuji TV drama “Pure” and used in NTT Docomo commercials, and has been covered by many artists, including Ryuichi Kawamura and Anri.

Its warmth, which seems to envelop deep feelings for a loved one, is part of its charm, and as a song that keeps close company on nights spent with someone special, it has been etched into the hearts of many.

Prayer ~ Orbit of TearsMr.Children26rank/position

Mr.Children 'Inori ~ Namida no Kido' Music Video

Mr.Children’s song “Inori ~Namida no Kido~” is a moving ballad released in 2012.

Created by Kazutoshi Sakurai with an awareness of Japanese melody amid the post-earthquake turmoil, the piece evokes both the pain of loss and the hope of new beginnings.

Its warm, empathetic melody has made it an anthem of encouragement for many listeners.

This song is especially recommended for those facing moments of personal transformation or wishing to overcome hardship.

With its powerful message, it serves as a strong source of support for all of us living through these challenging times.

Footsteps ~Be StrongMr.Children27rank/position

Mr.Children “Footsteps ~Be Strong” Music Video (Short ver.)

Mr.Children’s “Ashiatō ~Be Strong~” is, as the title suggests, unlike any other song in how much it makes you want to cherish each step you take.

It affirms even your small bits of growth and gives you the reassuring sense that someone is watching over you.

On the path toward your goals, there are times you feel like you might lose heart, but when you listen to this song in those moments, the words “It’s okay” arrive with real weight.

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Miracle EarthKuwata Keisuke & Mr.Children28rank/position

Miracle Earth / Keisuke Kuwata & Mr.Children (Cover)

It was released in 1995 as a charity single by Keisuke Kuwata & Mr.Children.

The song served as the campaign anthem for Act Against AIDS 1995, and its lyrics include words that evoke AIDS, war, infectious diseases, and other themes central to the song.

Portraying an ideal of peace, it also features lines that satirize a government that fails to take initiative and crowds that turn a blind eye, resulting in a powerful message song.