Songs that soothe the anxieties I had when I first moved to Tokyo. Classic Japanese hits and recommended popular tracks.

Song of BeginningsOhashi Takuya

Takuya Ohashi – “Hajimari no Uta” Music Video: TAKUYA OHASHI – Hajimari no Uta Music Video

It was released in 2008 as Takuya Ohashi’s first solo single.

The song was used for the U-Can 2008 campaign and reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

With its bright sound that eases the anxieties of just having moved to Tokyo, it’s a song that makes you feel like looking ahead and doing your best even when things don’t go well.

I can only face forwardAKB48

[MV full] We Only Look Forward / AKB48 [Official]

It was released in 2014 as AKB48’s 35th major single.

For Yuko Oshima, who served as the song’s center, it was the last single before her graduation from AKB48.

Befitting Oshima’s final release, it’s an utterly positive encouragement song for people struggling with anxiety or worries.

excessively earnest; overly serious to a fault; straight-lacedCreepy Nuts×Ayase×Ikuta Rira

Creepy Nuts × Ayase × Rira Ikuta / Baka Majime “Do You Remember That Night” Special Video

The collaboration song by Creepy Nuts, Ayase, and Lila Ikuta is a cheer anthem for everyone working hard every day.

Even while feeling worn out by trivial chatter and tedious people, it encourages a forward-looking attitude toward life.

Released in March 2022, the track served as the theme song for the All Night Nippon 55th anniversary show “Ano Yoru wo Oboeteru.” It features a jaunty track and comical lyrics that capture everyday life, and it reached No.

38 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

It’s a song that stands by those striving in new environments and encourages people who can’t help but give their all.

Listening to it daily can soothe the anxieties of those newly arrived in the city and inspire the strength to take a new step forward.

Hello, helloSuperfly

Superfly 'Hello, Hello' Music Video

A greeting is what blows away the gloom.

Saying it like that teaches you that you can erase your own gloomy or anxious feelings.

It’s a song that tells you to say goodbye to yesterday’s anxiety and negativity and gives you a gentle push forward.

Superfly has many songs that not only feel good to listen to but also feel great to sing.

I’m homeTani Yuuki

I’m home – Tani Yuuki【MV】

A warm-hearted song filled with nostalgia for one’s hometown and realizations about the important things we tend to overlook in everyday life.

Amid the rush of busy city living, it captures that moment when you pause and look back, and feel the importance of bonds with family and friends.

Its soothing melody and vocals gently embrace those feelings and leave a lasting impression.

Featured on the EP “HOMETOWN,” released in May 2024, this gem distills Tani Yuuki’s heartfelt connection to his roots.

It’s a perfect soundtrack for anyone just starting to live on their own or heading back to their parents’ home for the first time in a while.

BlessingYOASOBI

YOASOBI “The Blessing” from TBS’s ‘CDTV Live! Live!’ @ GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA

YOASOBI’s second single gently embraces the mix of anxiety and anticipation that comes with a new chapter in life.

Its driving sound and clear, airy vocals give listeners a powerful push forward.

Released in November 2022, the song was chosen as the opening theme for the anime Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury.

The lyrics carry a strong message: “I choose my own life,” offering the courage to dive into new environments.

It’s a track I hope those starting to live on their own or facing new challenges will listen to.

migratory bird[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

A powerful portrayal of taking flight toward your dreams, this [Alexandros] song blends a driving, fast-paced melody with lyrics that speak directly to the heart, perfectly harmonized to help you take that first step into a new life.

Its message—“Spread your wings and take off”—gently supports those feeling anxious about moving or setting out on a new journey.

Released in March 2015, the track was used as the theme song for the film Akegarasu and selected as the ending theme for the TV program Sakigake! Ongaku Banzuke ~EIGHT~.

In August 2019, it surpassed 100 million streams, marking a milestone as the 21st Japanese artist to achieve this feat.

When anticipation and anxiety mingle before a move or a fresh start, listening to this song will lift your spirits.

It’s a track that will surely stay close to the heart of anyone about to take their first step in a new place.