Unrequited love songs recommended for teenage girls: classic and popular Japanese hits

Loud Voice DiamondAKB48

[MV full] Oogoe Diamond / AKB48 [Official]

Released in 2008 as the 10th single, it was used as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s Drama 24 series “Men☆Dol ~Ikemen Idol~,” among many other media appearances.

The lyrics, which boldly express feelings of love, are very pop and feel great.

Lovesick from unrequited loveCY8ER

CY8ER – Kataomoiwazurai (Official Music Video)

A cute unrequited-love song sung over a stylish programmed sound.

It’s included on idol group CY8ER’s 2018 album Hello New Generation.

Recommended for teenage girls looking for a slightly offbeat take on unrequited love.

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Hitomi in LoveMACO

MACO – Love-Struck Eyes [Music Video / Short ver.]

This song was created as a cheer anthem for women in love.

It’s a track by MACO, a singer-songwriter from Hokkaido.

Released in 2017 as her third single, it’s sure to give you the push you need if you’re hesitating to confess your feelings!

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I can’t say ‘I love you.’MAY’S

[PV] MAY’S / Can’t Say “I Love You”

It’s a song about unspoken true feelings, and the pain and heartache of carrying them—an unrequited love song.

The male-female music duo MAY’S released it in 2009 as their fifth single.

Many teenage girls will likely relate to the struggles described in the lyrics.

Please gather your courage and try to share your feelings.

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I miss you.UVERworld

UVERworld 'Yearning for You'

It’s their 11th single, released in 2008, composed by member Katsuya—his first time composing a title track.

It has a laid-back, ballad-like feel.

The lyrics express lingering feelings for a girlfriend he parted ways with in order to pursue his dreams.

Unrequited love.haji→

Hajime → New CD Single “Kataomoi.” Lyric Video

The person you like has someone else they like… what a bittersweet situation.

This is an unrequited love song by singer-songwriter HaJi→, released as a single in 2018.

Though the lyrics are from a male perspective, women are sure to relate to these feelings as well.

The plaintive piano tones really sink in.

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I want to be lovedYumcha

Yumcha “Aisaretai” [Lyric Video]

Set to a catchy pop sound, this song gives heartfelt voice to the ache of unrequited love.

Its down-to-earth lyrics portray the frustration of not being noticed by the one you like and the pure wish to win their heart.

It went viral on TikTok and Instagram, and since its release in November 2024, it has resonated with many listeners.

Yumcha’s clear vocals and uplifting message are comforting, gently encouraging girls who are working on bettering themselves.

Perfect not only for those in one-sided love, but also for anyone who needs a little courage to pursue romance.