For When You Want to Get Sentimental: Classic Japanese Songs Overflowing with a Melancholic Atmosphere
There are times when you suddenly find yourself feeling sentimental, aren’t there?
Cheering yourself up is one way to go, but it might also be nice to just let yourself be as you are in those moments.
In this article, we’ve picked out songs you can sink into on a sentimental day.
Letting yourself go with the flow and listening to classics like these can be surprisingly soothing.
These tracks aren’t just for autumn nights—you can enjoy them in all sorts of seasons and situations.
Hopefully you’ll find a song that fits your sentimental mood.
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- A nostalgic song—a timeless classic that somehow feels familiar and touches the heart.
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- The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at your heartstrings. Tear-jerker songs from the Showa era.
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- Gently soaking into a weary heart... Healing songs released in the Reiwa era
- [Classic and Contemporary Hits] Emotionally Stirring, Heart-Touching Songs
- [Cheering Songs] Japanese tracks to listen to when you’re troubled, lost, or feeling anxious
- Tears won’t stop with these sentimental lyrics! Heisei-era tearjerker songs
[For When You Want to Get Sentimental] Classic Japanese Songs Overflowing with a Melancholic Atmosphere (61–70)
That wonderful love once moreKatō Kazuhiko, Kitayama Osamu
A gem of a folk song, filled with longing and nostalgia in search of a lost love.
It gently embraces shifting emotional distances and reflections on youth gone by.
The warm sonic world woven by the soothing resonance of the acoustic guitar and a refined arrangement beautifully captures the farewells and hoped-for reunions we all encounter in life.
Since its release in May 1971, it has been beloved as a staple for school events and graduation season, and has been widely used as incidental music in dramas and variety shows.
When you want to linger in memories with someone dear, why not immerse yourself in its soul-stirring vocals and poetic world?
ElegyBONNIE PINK
A gem of a ballad where a quiet melody and deep prayer resonate.
With BONNIE PINK’s gentle vocals and a softly moving melody, this piece was newly written as the ending theme for the 2022 hibakusha documentary films “for you: Hito no Tame ni” and “Ikiru FROM NAGASAKI.” Featured on the album “Infinity,” it carries a powerful message that, while reflecting on life’s doubts and inner conflicts, weaves a thread of hope for the future.
Crafted by Ovall’s bassist-producer, its refined sound—where piano and guitar blend beautifully—is another highlight.
Perfect for calm twilight hours or quiet moments spent deepening thoughts of someone dear, this song will gently bring a tender light to your heart.
Unforgettable DaysMISIA
This is a masterpiece created by Misia, a powerhouse singer whose exquisite high-toned voice creates a gentle vibrato.
The passionate, sentimental lyrics—about how even if you lose someone, the days you spent together will never fade and will remain tucked away in your heart as treasures—resonated with many and became a huge hit.
LonelyNulbarich
A bittersweet vocal intertwines with mellow sounds to create a song that sinks deep into the heart.
While it explores themes of loneliness and the regret of parting, the protagonist’s earnest wish to reunite with their loved one is conveyed through a sultry, alluring voice.
The captivating beat and chorus melody blend the poignancy and elegance of a mature romance.
Included on Nulbarich’s April 2021 album NEW GRAVITY, the track showcases a refined sense of groove in perfect harmony with JQ’s soulful vocals.
It’s an ideal song for a nighttime drive or for spending relaxed, intimate moments with someone special.
Sexual MethodHarvard
This sheet music by Harvard features cool, stylish English lyrics.
With a pleasant piano melody and a mature mood, it poignantly sings of past love and longing for a woman, making it a masterpiece that lets you naturally sink into a state of gentle melancholy.
spiral squallKeyco
A masterpiece by the one-of-a-kind diva Kiko, featuring a sweet, catchy melody line that invites you to indulge in sentiment.
Its high-level metaphoric lyrics, juxtaposing the joy of playing in the rain with feelings of sorrow, are exceptionally well-crafted, and the song is a fan favorite at live shows.
Blues in the Closetzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.
A captivating track that fuses jazz and pop.
The lyrics portray emotional complexity and inner conflict, leaving a deep impression that sinks in as you listen.
Released in June 2024 as an insert song for the film “Even If I Like You, I’ll Play Hard to Get,” it’s a richly layered piece that resonates with the film’s world.
It might be perfect for those slightly lonely feelings on a summer evening.
Amid awkward communication—empty gestures and timid conversations—you can sense the true feelings hidden beneath.
Savor this song packed with a fresh side of Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni.
(“ZUTOMAYO”).