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)
Love of 108 YenCreepHyp
Creephyp is a rock band with a unique appeal.
Their lyrics are original and not an imitation of anyone else.
This song, “108 Yen Love,” which was used as the ending theme for the film One Hundred Yen Love, is a heartrending love song.
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.
tear(s)Marushii
A heartbreaking breakup ballad by Marcy, beloved for their relatable, down-to-earth music.
The structure tells all the radiant memories of a seaside park in the past tense, conveying the bittersweet ache of heartbreak—the way you can’t help but remember, even knowing you can’t go back.
You might recognize that feeling, as if your body still carries the warmth of the other person.
It’s a song that gently stays by the side of anyone who can’t forget a summer romance that has come to an end.
Where does our sorrow go?Harukamirai
Harukamirai’s soul-stirring cries, rooted in their unique worldview, strike straight to the heart.
While reflecting the anxieties and chaos of society, the song carries a strong will to keep moving forward and a desire to protect cherished companions.
Conveying the importance of holding on to hope even amid struggle, this work fuses punk rock with emotional elements to deliver a powerful sound that shakes the listener.
Included on the album “Living Is About Holding Onto a Hope as Small as a Booger,” released in February 2025, it marks a new frontier for a band with a track record that includes theme and insert songs for the film “Rin.” This is a message song that resonates with everyone who, despite feeling loneliness and anxiety, still wants to face forward and live.
Masterpieces of Japanese songs about sorrow (21–30)
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.