A classic Japanese song that sings of sorrow
In everyday life, we all go through sad experiences—like heartbreak or setbacks at work.
When you’re feeling down, some people listen to upbeat, energizing songs to lift their spirits, while others intentionally choose sad songs.
Which are you?
Sometimes, letting yourself sink into the ultimate sentimental mood with a sad song can actually make the sadness fade.
Here, we’ll introduce some classic Japanese songs that sing of sorrow!
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Classic Japanese songs about sorrow (11–20)
I’ll wait.amin
Speaking of Amin, they’re a female duo.
Their signature song is “Matsu Wa” (“I’ll Wait”).
It’s a gentle song that portrays the sorrowful feelings of a woman who keeps waiting for the man she loves.
The title and lyrics are superb—so much so that it feels less like a mere song and more like poetry.
One More Time, One More ChanceYamazaki Masayoshi
Masayoshi Yamazaki’s classic song “One More Time, One More Chance” is a heartrending love ballad.
If I had to sum it up in one phrase, I’d say it’s all about the masterful contrasts.
It starts gently and quietly, then surges into a full-throttle climax in the chorus.
hydrangeaShibasaki Kou
This is a song by Kou Shibasaki that overlays a deep love and a heartrending farewell with the image of hydrangeas.
It was released digitally in October 2024 and included on the EP “Kyoen,” released in November of the same year.
Its ballad-like melody is paired with Shibasaki’s delicate vocals, resonating deeply with listeners.
The wistful lyrics, inspired by the true story of Philipp Franz von Siebold, a late-Edo-period physician, and his Japanese wife Otaki, are also striking.
For those who have lost a loved one or feel the transience of life, the song offers empathy and healing.
Revolveryonige
A song that gently portrays the sorrow of love and the changes of the heart strikes a perfect balance between wistfulness and resignation.
It delicately depicts two people who were once close gradually growing apart, using everyday scenes like pro wrestling and ramen as a lens.
Chosen as a theme for au’s Santaro commercial series and later included on the 2018 album HOUSE, the track is further brought to life in its music video, which features actor Ryuya Wakaba and conveys a cinematic atmosphere that beautifully captures the song’s world.
Embracing the hearts of those who try to look forward while carrying the pain of heartbreak, it resonates as a quintessential yonige coming-of-age song.
You’re no longer here.FUNKY MONKEY BABYS
This is a gem of a ballad that sings of the sweet, aching pain of heartbreak.
The farewell scene on the station platform and the memories the two shared are delicately portrayed and delivered with a melody that pierces the heart.
Among FUNKY MONKEY BABYS’ works, it stands out for its rich emotional expression.
Released in October 2007, it reached No.
8 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It was selected as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Otona no Shikaku,” earning broad support across generations.
The song is also included on the album “FUNKY MONKEY BABYS 2,” and has been covered by Mariko Takahashi.
It’s a heartwarming track that stays by your side when you sense the end of a romance or go through a farewell with someone dear.
From our joined handsback number
A poignant ballad that reflects on past romance and gradually realizes the value of a lost love.
It delicately portrays the warmth of happier days slowly cooling, as well as the magnitude of the other person’s presence that only becomes clear after the breakup.
Included on the 4th album “Love Story” released in March 2014, it was also used as the commercial song for JTB’s travel product “JTB Premium.” With a gentle, heart-touching melody and a relatable narrative, this song is relatively easy to sing at karaoke and is one you’ll want to try—especially if you’ve experienced heartbreak or parting.
Masterpieces of Japanese songs about sorrow (21–30)
ElegyHirai Ken
This is a masterpiece whose poignant love story, told from a woman’s perspective, resonates in the rich vocals of Ken Hirai.
It delicately portrays the feelings of a woman consumed by love, expressing the intense emotions of fixation on her partner and a fierce willingness to embrace even the pain of love.
Released in January 2007 as the theme song for Toho’s film Love’s Crucible, it was also included on the album FAKIN’ POP and performed at the 58th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen.
In 2021, it was covered by Fuyumi Sakamoto on her album Love Emotion, continuing to influence many artists.
It’s a song to listen to on nights after heartbreak or when you’re suffering from thoughts of someone you love.