Tear-jerking songs recommended for men in their 30s: classic and popular Japanese tracks

Midnight ExpresswayFurawā Kanpanī

Flower Companyz “Midnight Highway (25th Anniversary Mix)”

A youthful rock anthem brimming with momentum and emotion, painting a grand portrait of life.

Powerfully delivered by The Flower Companyz, this song radiates a warmth that lights a ray of hope in an uncertain life.

Released in September 2004 as a track on the classic album “Setagaya Yoake Mae” (Before Dawn in Setagaya), it has continued to resonate closely with many hearts.

When you stand at a crossroads, when you feel anxious about the future, and for all who are doing their best to live in the present, this is an encouraging song that will gently push you forward.

Sorrow Rides the Busmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Sadness Rides the Bus” MV

Set to melodies that gently stay close to the heart, this moving story by Macaroni Empitsu captures the shifting patterns of human emotion.

The lead track from their August 2023 album, “Otona no Namida” (“Tears of Adults”), delicately depicts the fleeting feelings found in farewells with family and in everyday life.

Hattori’s clear, transparent vocals and the softly unfolding melody resonate deep within the listener.

The song also drew attention for its music video directed by Yoshihito Mori, known for the Netflix film “We Couldn’t Become Adults.” Through the perspective of a protagonist played by Shota Sometani, it asks profound questions about the meaning of life and the preciousness of existence.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to empathize with feelings for loved ones or soothe the quiet emotions they carry inside.

The Last RainYasushi Nakanishi

The Last Rain

An ultimate, heart-stirring ballad that vividly portrays a farewell in a rain-soaked city.

Yasushi Nakanishi’s clear, gentle vocals beautifully express the pain of heartbreak and lingering attachment.

This song dramatically captures complex emotions like the fear of losing someone you love and possessiveness.

Released in August 1992, it was used as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “Hitachi Ashita P-KAN Kibun!” Its popularity steadily grew, ultimately becoming a major hit with total sales of about 900,000 copies by 1998.

It has been covered by numerous artists, including Kumi Koda and EXILE ATSUSHI.

For anyone who has experienced heartbreak, it’s a timeless ballad that resonates deeply and begs to be sung along to at least once.

Close your eyesHirai Ken

Ayaka / “Hitomi o Tojite” Music Video (Story 3)

It was used as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World” and became an unprecedented smash hit.

You could even call it the standard for love ballads now.

It’s a song that’s practically synonymous with bringing you to tears.

Many artists went on to release cover versions.

It’s highly recommended when you’re in the mood to soak in your feelings.

homeKiyama Yusaku

Yusaku Kiyama - Home

A moving ballad filled with warm father-to-child love and hopes for growth has been delivered by Yusaku Kiyama.

His gentle, calm voice conveys deep affection for family, and despite its straightforward storytelling, it leaves a lasting resonance in the listener’s heart.

Released in February 2008, the song was featured as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “UtaSta!!” and Yomiuri TV’s “Joho Live Miyane-ya,” and it also led to his appearance at the 59th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen that same year.

For karaoke, it’s recommended when you want to reflect on family memories or express gratitude to someone special.

It’s a tender, warmth-filled song—like softly returning someone’s hand squeeze under a bright sky.

cherry blossomKawaguchi Kyogo

Kyogo Kawaguchi – Sakura

With its simple yet deeply moving melody and richly expressive musicality, it continues to be cherished as a timeless classic.

The lyrics, which skillfully weave in the changing seasons, carry a warm message of hope for a future with a loved one and the resolve to move forward with hope in one’s heart.

Released in December 2003 by Warner Music Japan, this piece was created for a commercial featuring Doraemon as the image character.

Like a warm breeze that heralds the arrival of spring, it is a gem you’ll want to listen to whenever you wish to feel calm and gentle.

Let’s become a familyFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Let’s Become a Family (Full ver.)

A gemlike ballad that gently portrays the beauty of walking through life with the one you love.

The warm poetic world woven by Masaharu Fukuyama offers deep insights into marriage and the bonds of family.

Unchanging love across the years, the quiet happiness of everyday life, and hopes for the future—these elements blend beautifully in this heartwarming song.

Released in August 2011, it was featured as the theme song for the wedding magazine Zexy’s TV commercial and reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It was certified Million by the Recording Industry Association of Japan.

A heartwarming track that lets you feel the ties of family.