Hikaru Utada Ballad Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]

First LoveUtada Hikaru1rank/position

Hikaru Utada – First Love

This is one of Hikaru Utada’s signature ballads, a song about the end of an unforgettable love.

Released in April 1999 as a single from her album, it became a major sensation as the theme song for the drama “Majo no Jōken,” which portrays a romance between a teacher and a student.

The opening scene—beginning with the bitter, heartrending scent of a cigarette from a farewell kiss—is strikingly vivid, almost unbelievable for something written by her at just sixteen.

Even if you fall in love with someone else, your first love remains special in your heart, and the message that you learned how to love from that relationship transforms the pain of heartbreak into beautiful hope.

A perfect listen for nights when you want to linger in bittersweet memories.

A Bouquet for YouUtada Hikaru2rank/position

Hikaru Utada – A Bouquet for You

A ballad by Hikaru Utada that gently seeps into the heart with a sense of nostalgia.

The lyrics, filled with feelings of farewell and gratitude, and the tender melody woven by piano and strings, deeply move listeners.

Released digitally in April 2016, it drew attention as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Toto Nee-chan.” It is also said to reflect Utada’s feelings for her mother.

Perfect for those who have experienced parting from someone important or who want to express their gratitude.

It’s also a popular choice as background music for graduation ceremonies.

First loveUtada Hikaru3rank/position

Hikaru Utada “First Love” (Short Version)

As one of Japan’s leading singers, Hikaru Utada is now active overseas as well.

Her songs are popular across generations, making them easy to sing at karaoke.

Among her ballads, “Hatsukoi” has recently become a hit choice at karaoke.

Since it uses grooves and rhythms reminiscent of Western music, try singing it with attention not only to pitch but also to rhythm.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Saitō Ayumu

Report a problem

Flavor Of LifeUtada Hikaru4rank/position

Hikaru Utada – Flavor of Life -Ballad Version-

This is a masterpiece that delicately portrays the bittersweet pain of heartbreak and parting.

Released in February 2007, it’s a song by Hikaru Utada and served as the image song for the TBS drama “Boys Over Flowers 2 (Returns).” It beautifully expresses the many emotions brought on by saying goodbye to someone you love, with a memorable melody that resonates as if you can feel the very essence of love throughout your whole body.

The song topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for three consecutive weeks and was also included on the album “HEART STATION.” It’s a track that resonates deeply during the poignant moments of love or when you’re feeling uncertain about a relationship with someone important.

Deep RiverUtada Hikaru5rank/position

Hikaru Utada – Deep River

Debuting at the young age of 15, Hikaru Utada has continued to influence not only Japan but the global music scene with her charisma and musicality.

“Deep River” is the title track included on Utada’s third album, DEEP RIVER.

It is said to have been created with inspiration from Shusaku Endo’s novel Deep River.

The album as a whole has a darker tone compared to Utada’s other works, and “Deep River” is memorable for its lyrics that evoke life and death—a song we especially want people to hear now, in a world where wars still persist.

Why not try singing it when you want to deliver something gentle and heartfelt?

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

miyabi

Report a problem

Can’t Wait ‘Til ChristmasUtada Hikaru6rank/position

Can’t Wait ‘Til Christmas – Hikaru Utada (Sayulee) Day 133

Hikaru Utada, who made her debut at the exceptionally young age of 14 and defined an era with her sophisticated, uniquely refined music that belied her years.

This song also drew attention as the first Christmas song she ever created.

Starting with the Japanese rendering of the title “Can’t Wait ’Til Christmas,” the phrase “クリスマスまで待たせないで” (“Don’t make me wait until Christmas”) expresses a delicate yet direct wish: to cherish the present with the one you love.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mana

Report a problem

A midsummer passing showerUtada Hikaru7rank/position

Hikaru Utada – Midsummer Shower

A song that delicately weaves together the deep sorrow of losing someone precious and the love that still refuses to cease.

Like a gentle rain falling in the depths of the heart, it moves the listener—so quintessentially Hikaru Utada.

Included on the 2016 album Fantôme, this piece was released when Utada resumed musical activities after about eight years.

When you want something to quietly accompany the loneliness at summer’s end or those sudden pangs of wistfulness, this warm melody will envelop you.

On a night when you’re thinking of someone dear, why not listen closely?