Memorable masterpieces. Recommended popular songs.

A Small Restaurant in the ForestTeshima Aoi

Aoi Teshima – A Small Restaurant in the Forest (Official Audio)

Aoi Teshima is a singer who made her major debut with the theme song “Therru’s Song” from the Studio Ghibli film Tales from Earthsea, captivating listeners with her delicate, translucent voice.

Many people have likely heard her 15th digital-only single, “A Small Restaurant in the Forest,” which was featured on NHK’s Minna no Uta.

The lyrics vividly conjure the world suggested by the title and fill you with warmth just by listening.

With its soothing vocals and ensemble that linger in the ear, it’s a track that will heal hearts across generations.

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Hoshino Takashi

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ENDLESS SUMMER NUDEMagokoro Burazāzu

Magokoro Brothers 'ENDLESS SUMMER NUDE'

The beloved masterpiece by Magokoro Brothers, vividly capturing the summer of youth, was released in July 1997.

Its beautiful melody and lyrics, portraying the bittersweet end of summer and memories with a lover, moved countless listeners.

The song is included on the album “I will Survive” and was also used as an insert song in the Tokyo Theatres–distributed film “Osaka Monogatari.” The arrangement, which blends programming and live performance by CHOKKAKU, features accomplished musicians such as Toshio Araki and Yoichi Murata, with additional color added by Yoko Utsumi’s chorus.

It’s a heartwarming track we especially recommend to those who want to bask in summer memories or soothe a heart swayed by love.

Goodbyeofukōsu

Sayonara

A gem of a ballad that gently and poignantly portrays a lovers’ parting.

Against the backdrop of a cold day when rain turns to snow, their memories and emotions are woven with delicate detail.

Kazumasa Oda’s clear, pure vocals beautifully convey the wavering heart of the protagonist who chooses to say goodbye.

Released in December 1979, the song was used as an insert track in the first season of the TBS drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3-B” and reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly singles chart, making it one of Off Course’s signature classics.

It’s a soul-stirring piece you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night, glass in hand.

HappinessAI

AI – Happiness

It’s no exaggeration to call this a winter staple! It was recently used in a Coke commercial too, so it’s still fresh in our memories.

Its happy, clap-along sound is sure to bring a smile to your face.

AI’s husky, soaring vocals give you energy.

The straightforward lyrics about simply keeping a smile will help you look ahead when you’re feeling down.

Listen to it with someone special, and you’ll be able to share smiles—this is a true classic.

In the Morning of DeterminationAqua Timez

Aqua Timez 'Ketsui no Asa ni' Music Video (Theme song of the film 'Brave Story')

This was Aqua Timez’s first major-label single.

It also became well-known for being used as the theme song for the animated film Brave Story.

Its mid-tempo pace and somewhat wistful atmosphere are part of its charm.

Though it carries a heart-tugging poignancy, the pop, light sound makes it extremely easy to listen to.

Above all, pay attention to the lyrics.

Sung from a relatable, down-to-earth perspective about the sense of distance we all feel with others, the words are timeless and sure to resonate no matter when you listen.

It’s not a song that simply cheers you up or gives you a push—it’s a masterpiece that feels like it stays by your side.