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!
- [For when you want to cry or feel sad] Tear-jerking masterpieces that make you cry when you listen
- For When You Need a Good Cry: Soul-Soothing Tearjerker Classics — Life, Love, and Work
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- [Yami Song] Fight darkness with darkness!? Deep tracks that stay close to your pain
- Songs that hit home when you're feeling blue: masterpieces of Japanese music
- Hidden gems of yami songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- [Melancholy] For when you want to sink all the way. Masterpieces that depict various kinds of gloom.
- Masterpieces with the theme of “tears.” A roundup of moving tracks that tug at the heartstrings.
- A masterpiece that sings of loneliness. Recommended popular songs.
- A poignant ballad song. A tear-jerking masterpiece of Japanese pop music.
- Masterpieces of bittersweet breakup songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- [Today's Tearjerker Song] Tear ducts destroyed! Timeless and trending tracks that will make you cry no matter what
- Classic and popular unrequited love breakup songs
Masterpieces of Japanese songs about sorrow (21–30)
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.
To the most important personTonneruzu
Although Tunnels is a comedy duo, they’ve released numerous songs that became hits.
“To the Most Important Person” is one such track, and its lyrics are highly message-driven, socially conscious, and filled with a sense of aching sadness.
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.
May it be filled with kindnessJUJU
It’s a gentle song that expresses feelings and gratitude toward a lover who has gone away.
Rather than making you feel heartbroken, it’s a breakup song that transforms the pain of a broken heart into a gentle warmth.
It’s also great for karaoke and can get everyone excited, so it’s recommended for high school students.
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.
Your LoveFurui Riho
A gem-like ballad by Furui Riho that gently stays close to the hearts of listeners carrying sorrow.
It’s a song that encourages you to reexamine a lost love and take a step toward self-realization.
The wistful vocals and melody resonate as if seeping into your heart.
Featured on the album “Love One Another” and released in April 2024, this track captured many hearts, receiving heavy airplay on 21 radio stations nationwide.
When you’re hurting from a breakup or standing at a crossroads in life, listening to this song will surely give you the strength to look forward.
It’s also recommended to listen while thinking of someone dear to you.
MPRINCESS PRINCESS
The song “M” by Princess Princess is a masterpiece packed with the uniquely feminine, sorrowful emotions that only a girls’ band can convey.
Princess Princess released many hit songs, but this is one of their most popular ballads.
It’s still frequently sung at karaoke today.