Songs to listen to in autumn: Ranking of popular Japanese bands [2026]

late autumnThe Back Horn43rank/position

late autumn

This is a masterpiece by THE BACK HORN that poignantly and beautifully captures the late-autumn scenery.

It’s included on their indie debut album “Dokoe Iku” (Where Are We Going), released in September 1999, and features rough-edged guitar riffs and powerful drums that embody their original sound.

Masashi Yamada’s emotional vocals sing of life’s fragility, a sense of loss, and hope for the future through images of sunsets and cosmos flowers swaying in the late-autumn breeze.

Best enjoyed alone on a slow walk at dusk in November, when autumn’s end can be felt, this song’s heartfelt lyrics and powerful sound are sure to stir your emotions.

late autumngagaga supi44rank/position

late autumn

A classic youth punk song that portrays the bittersweet feelings of autumn love.

It’s the title track of the single released by Gagaga SP in October 2002 and is also included on the album “Ora Ichinuketa.” Written and composed by Kozak Maeda, the song overlays the pain of heartbreak with late-autumn scenery.

The opening phrase of the chorus is striking, beautifully conveying the changing seasons and the turmoil of the heart.

A track that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced a broken heart.

Singing it at karaoke will let you feel the poignancy of autumn.

It’ll get stained.Chatto Monchī45rank/position

Chatmonchy “I’ll Be Dyed” Music Video

If you’re looking to indulge in a slightly sentimental mood on a chilly autumn night, I recommend a wistful mid-tempo number from Chatmonchy.

Released in November 2008, this song poignantly conveys the loneliness of city nights and the tender ache of stretching yourself to do something unfamiliar.

The gradient of a heart that has lost something precious and is slowly dyed a different color seems to resonate in your chest, carried by Eriko Hashimoto’s aching vocals.

This was the band’s ninth single and marked their first entry into the Oricon Top 10.

It was also used as the theme song for the drama “Tonsura” and included on the classic album “Kokuhaku” (Confession).

Sing it earnestly at karaoke, and memories of your youth might just come flooding back.

AutumnYabai T-shatsu Yasan46rank/position

Autumn

When it comes to autumn songs, wistful melodies and sentimental lyrics are the norm, right? But Yabai T-Shirts Yasan brings a fresh twist that overturns those autumn-song clichés.

This track sings about a feeling many of us have probably had at least once: compared to spring, summer, or winter, isn’t autumn a bit weak at making its case? What’s great is the playful spirit of setting that disarmingly honest message to a breakneck, melody-driven punk sound.

The song is included on the album “Tank-top Festival in JAPAN,” released in December 2018 toward the end of the Heisei era.

It’s the perfect pick when the typical ways of spending autumn don’t quite click, or when you want to amp up the energy on a drive with friends.

catDISH//47rank/position

DISH// – Cat [Official Live Video 2019]

Known as one of DISH//’s signature songs, this much-talked-about track was created by Aimyon, who was inspired by the film “Let Me Eat Your Pancreas.” Its lyrical world and memorable melody are so catchy you’ll find yourself humming it no matter what you’re doing.

Released in August 2017 as the B-side to their 10th single “We Did It,” the song is characterized by expressions that metaphorically portray the pain of heartbreak and separation.

With a gently loping shuffle beat that feels pleasant, it’s a sentimental number.

It’s a well-known tune that almost everyone has heard, so it’s sure to be a hit at autumn karaoke.

I wonder if I’d still say it’s too late.Saucy Dog48rank/position

Saucy Dog “Would I Say It’s Too Late Now?” Music Video <4th Mini Album “Take Me” Released on 2020.9.2>

A song that portrays a man’s aching heart, longing to express overflowing feelings.

Faint first love and the pain of heartbreak are woven into Saucy Dog’s soothing melodies.

Featured on the album “Take Me,” released in September 2020, this track showcases the band’s musical breadth while fully displaying their hallmark gift for delicate emotional expression.

It’s a song for those who went through a breakup at summer’s end or still can’t forget someone.

It might help you sort through the feelings that linger in your heart.

Tokyo Sunsetback number49rank/position

Tokyo No Yuuyake

For those who find themselves layering a sentimental mood over the cityscape on an autumn evening, this classic by back number is highly recommended.

It delicately portrays the protagonist’s feelings as they struggle with loneliness and inner conflict in an unfamiliar city, yet try to find hope in the beautiful sunset unfolding before their eyes.

The song is included on the album “Chandelier,” released in December 2015, which topped the Oricon weekly chart for two consecutive weeks.

If you listen to it on your slightly chilly walk home when a sudden pang of loneliness hits, its bittersweet yet warm melody will likely wrap gently around your heart.

It’s a tender cheery anthem that seems to give you a gentle push—“Let’s do our best again tomorrow.”