Songs to listen to in autumn: Ranking of popular Japanese bands [2026]
Since it’s the season of autumn music, how about lending an ear this year to artists you don’t usually listen to?
We’ve selected songs from Japanese bands that are perfect for fall, so you’re sure to find one or two that strike a chord.
Let’s make it a season full of diverse interests!
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Songs to Listen to in Autumn: Popular Japanese Band Tracks Ranking [2026] (11–20)
A Colorful WorldJUDY AND MARY15rank/position
A quintessential autumn ballad by JUDY AND MARY, a rock band that defined the ’90s.
Released as a single from the acclaimed 1998 album “POP LIFE” in September of that year, it peaked at No.
11 on the Oricon charts.
Its heartrending, tear-jerking melody and YUKI’s expressive vocals perfectly mirror the autumn scenery of turning leaves and swirling foliage.
When you’re in a sentimental mood, this song is sure to keep you company.
Happy Endingback number16rank/position
The season has arrived when you feel like listening to love songs that seep with heartache.
This track by back number delicately portrays the pain of long-distance relationships and the sorrow of parting.
Chosen as the theme song for the film “My Tomorrow, Your Yesterday,” it perfectly matches the poignant love story starring Sota Fukushi.
Released in November 2016, the song is memorable for Iyori Shimizu’s delicate lyrics and beautiful melody.
It’s a piece I especially want those to hear who can’t forget someone yet had no choice but to say goodbye—people carrying that complex mix of feelings.
Tomorrow never knowsMr.Children17rank/position
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call this Mr.
Children’s greatest masterpiece—a timeless classic that will go down in history.
The lyrics capture the precarious, delicate emotions of youth and the true feelings of young people burdened with hopes and anxieties.
The melody pierces the heart.
It’s truly a wonderful song.
It’s also famous as the theme song for the drama “All About Youth” (Wakamono no Subete), which starred a young Takuya Kimura.
SeptemberSakanakushon18rank/position
This is a song by Sakanaction that fuses a melancholic band sound with elements of electronica.
Centered on themes of life’s meaning and life and death, it voices complex emotions and a quiet acceptance.
It was included on the album “834.194,” released in June 2019.
There are two versions, the Tokyo version and the Sapporo version, expressing a contrast between the city and the provinces.
Emotions such as resignation and acceptance are depicted, conveying an attitude of embracing life’s doubts and compromises.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to alone on a long autumn night.
A contemplative work packed with reflection that prompts thoughts about a deep understanding and acceptance of life.
sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)SEKAI NO OWARI19rank/position
The theme song for NHK’s 2018 PyeongChang Olympics and Paralympics.
The camellia (sazanka) is a flower whose meanings include “overcoming hardship” and “single-minded devotion.” Wherever there is someone chasing a dream, there is always someone watching over them.
Around a single moment of glory, there are countless smiles and tears, and feelings that can’t be put into words.
If you shift your perspective, you realize that everyone is both a protagonist and, at the same time, a supporting character.
“Sazanka” is a cheer for all people who walk their own paths.
balladKetsumeishi20rank/position
A gem of a ballad from Ketsumeishi that portrays the heartrending feelings of a man tormented by unrequited love.
This work is their first full-fledged ballad, with rap kept to a minimum, and its poignant melody and lyrics depicting the complex romances of adults create a gentle, subdued atmosphere.
It was also used as the theme song for the TV program “Sukkiri!!,” becoming a beloved classic that resonated with many.
If you’re dealing with heartbreak or struggling with unrequited love, this is a song that will be by your side—why not give it a listen?
Songs to Listen to in Autumn: Ranking of Popular Japanese Bands [2026] (21–30)
Tsubasaandāgurafu21rank/position
When it comes to autumn rock numbers that capture youthful love, dreams, and hope, Tsubasa comes to mind.
Released in 2004 by Undergraf, a three-piece rock band that rose to popularity through street performances, it’s known as one of their signature songs.
From the electric guitar-driven intro to the passionate mid-tempo rock arrangement, the sound leaves a strong impression.
The song portrays someone saying goodbye to the days spent with a loved one and chasing their dreams.
Be sure to give this determined, autumn-themed rock track a listen.
