Utada Hikaru’s Most Moving Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]

BAD modeUtada Hikaru11rank/position

Hikaru Utada “BAD Mode”

You’ll be drawn into a sound that blends a calm atmosphere with a light, buoyant rhythm.

It’s a song by Hikaru Utada, a singer-songwriter who has been at the forefront of Japan’s music scene for many years, and it’s the title track of the album released in 2022.

The city pop-tinged soundscape is exceptionally easy on the ears.

It’d be ideal if we could always be in a good mood, but that’s just not realistic.

We all get irritated or feel down sometimes.

If you listen to this song at those moments, it will be there to comfort you.

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Be My LastUtada Hikaru12rank/position

Hikaru Utada – Be My Last

A single by Hikaru Utada released in 2005 that also served as the theme song for the film “Spring Snow.” The lyrics, which repeatedly plead to “be the last person,” resonate straight to the heart.

While Hikaru Utada has created many masterpieces, this song—heart-wrenching precisely because both its title and lyrics are so direct—is one you’ll undoubtedly find yourself absorbed in.

Can’t Wait ‘Til ChristmasUtada Hikaru13rank/position

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

A melody marked by a mid-tempo groove and a delicate piano tone leaves a strong impression.

On top of that, her heartrending vocals blend beautifully, tightening your chest.

It’s a love song with poignant lyrics about heartbreak—a popular ballad for quietly enjoying music in the winter season.

The track is included on the best-of album “Utada Hikaru SINGLE COLLECTION VOL.2” and was released in 2004.

Kiss & CryUtada Hikaru14rank/position

Hikaru Utada – Kiss & Cry

It’s the song that’s well-known from the cup ramen commercial.

Its upbeat, fun vibe combined with a unique worldview really makes you think, “As expected of a Hikaru Utada song.” Hikaru Utada has many other moving masterpieces too, but since Akira also likes this one, I recommend it.

One Last KissUtada Hikaru15rank/position

Hikaru Utada 'One Last Kiss'

A song by Hikaru Utada created as the theme for Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time.

Centered on the theme of loss, it conveys a message about the importance of moving forward.

Co-produced with British music producer A.

G.

Cook, it was released as a digital-only single in March 2021.

Utada reportedly composed the song after reading the script and envisioning the film’s final scene.

Its lyrics, which delicately portray the transience of love and the feeling of loss, are sure to resonate with many listeners.

It’s a moving piece that symbolizes Utada’s long-standing connection with the Evangelion series.

SAKURA DropsUtada Hikaru16rank/position

Hikaru Utada – SAKURA Drops

A signature song by Hikaru Utada, released in May 2002, that intertwines the season of falling cherry blossoms with the tremors of the heart.

Issued as a double A-side single with “Letters,” it was also used as the theme song for the TBS drama First Love.

The lyrics, which entrust the feelings of a lost love—and the inevitability of falling for someone new—to the coming of spring and the farewells it brings, resonate deeply.

With a delicate mid-tempo beat and Utada’s translucent vocals, the track carries both sadness and hope.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear as graduation and parting season arrives, or on a spring day when you find yourself reminiscing about a past love.

travelingUtada Hikaru17rank/position

Hikaru Utada – traveling

It’s a high-energy track by Hikaru Utada.

When I listen to it while driving or walking, the exhilarating sense of speed makes me want to start singing.

The music video’s quality is also incredible, and its colorful palette puts me in an incredibly happy mood.

youUtada Hikaru18rank/position

Hikaru Utada 'Anata'

A song by Hikaru Utada that expresses love from the perspective of a mother, it is also known as the theme song for the film “DESTINY: The Tale of Kamakura.” The deep affection imbued in the word “anata” (“you”) resonates powerfully with listeners.

Released digitally in December 2017, it was included on the following year’s album “Hatsukoi.” The track is characterized by a quiet beginning that swells with emotion and majestic strings.

It’s recommended not only for expressing gratitude and love to someone special, but also as wedding BGM.

It will help you rediscover the importance of everyday life and the bond with the one you love.

Play A Love SongUtada Hikaru19rank/position

Hikaru Utada “Play A Love Song” (Live Ver.)

Hikaru Utada’s “Play A Love Song” has left a powerful impact as the CM song for Suntory Minami-Alps Sparkling’s “SWITCH & SPARKLING!” commercial.

Featuring Utada herself racing across snowy mountains, the ad is striking with its breathtaking scenery.

Together with the music, it leaves a lasting impression.