[2026] Tear-jerking songs trending on YouTube Shorts. Recommended J-pop

smileAnly

Anly – Smile Music Video (2016 Release)

It’s one of those warm songs that makes you want to keep smiling especially when times are tough, isn’t it? In this track by Anly, a singer-songwriter from Ie Island in Okinawa, the gentle tones of the acoustic guitar and her direct, powerful vocals resonate deep in the heart.

From the lyrics, you can feel a strong resolve to think of the loved ones by your side and keep moving forward no matter how difficult the situation.

The song was written as the theme for the special drama “Boku no Inochi,” which aired in March 2016 and was based on the true story of a boy battling a serious illness and his family.

In the video filmed on her hometown of Ie Island, the expressions of the island’s people add even more emotional depth to the song.

When you want to be reminded of the bonds you share with those you love, or need a gentle nudge forward, listening to this will surely bring warm tears to your eyes.

SoranjiMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE「Soranji」Official Music Video

It’s a moving song chosen as the theme for the film “From Siberia With Love,” starring Kazunari Ninomiya and Keiko Kitagawa.

The song carries a straightforward message that aligns with the film’s worldview: never abandon hope no matter how desperate things seem, and keep living with thoughts of the ones you love in your heart.

Its sound evokes an epic scale, and the powerful yet gentle vocals are deeply stirring.

Released in November 2022 as their 10th single, this work reminds us—especially in hard times—of our own worth, that we are unique, irreplaceable, and profoundly precious.

When you feel lonely and stuck, listening to it will surely give you hope to go on.

sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)SEKAI NO OWARI

Sakanaction “Sazanka”

This is a song by SEKAI NO OWARI whose lyrics, written from the perspective of someone watching over a dream-chaser up close, pierce straight to the heart.

It’s not just a cheer song; it portrays a deep love that sheds tears of joy precisely because it understands the pain and loneliness that accompany the process of taking on a challenge.

Released in February 2018, it was also chosen as NHK’s broadcast theme for the PyeongChang Olympics and Paralympics.

It’s included on the album Lip as well.

Bearing the name of a flower that blooms powerfully despite the cold, this piece is sure to stand with everyone facing adversity.

It’s a moving song that gently warms the heart—one to hear when you’re striving desperately toward a goal, or when you’re quietly supporting someone else.

Until we meet againHirai Dai

Until we meet again

This is a moving ballad about parting, sung by Dai Hirai, a popular artist known for surf music.

You can picture the poignant yet warm scene of waving and saying “see you” along the familiar tree-lined street.

The song expresses not only gratitude for having met, but also a deep fondness for the days when love was nurtured despite passing each other by.

Like spring buds blooming into flowers, an unfading bond and the hope of reunion resonate in the heart through Hirai’s gentle vocals and acoustic tones, even as time goes by.

The track was released in February 2015 and is included on the album “Slow & Easy.” It’s sure to gently encourage you during farewells with loved ones—such as graduations or job transfers—when it’s time to embark on a new journey.

Even if I’m not thereHirai Dai

Dai Hirai / Even If I’m Not There. (Music Video)

This is a grand love song from Dai Hirai, known for his soothing, beach-evoking music, dedicated to a family of the future.

Released in January 2022, it was also included on the album HOPE / WISH.

Its warm yet bittersweet message—wishing happiness for a loved one even if you’re no longer by their side—strikes a deep chord.

The beautiful blend of piano and strings is also healing.

The flipbook-style music video, created by comedian Tekken with around 1,200 original drawings, moved many viewers.

It’s a song that makes gratitude overflow for the loved ones by your side right now.

Be sure to listen for his gentle vocals, which quietly resonate in the heart.