[2026] Japanese songs to listen to when you're in love: A collection of J-pop classics
Just thinking about the person I like makes my chest tighten.In unguarded moments, their face pops into my mind, and before I know it, it’s all I can think about—when you’re in love, everything in everyday life seems to take on special color.J-pop love songs gently keep you company through those sweet, aching feelings.In this article, we’ll introduce a generous selection of classic Japanese songs you’ll want to listen to when you’re in love.We’ve gathered a wide range of tracks that sing of the frustration of unrequited love, the happiness of mutual love, and the indescribable flutter of the heart.You’re sure to find a song that perfectly matches how you feel right now.
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[2026] Japanese songs to listen to when you're in love. A collection of J-POP masterpieces (111–120)
O youdoba shishō
Released in February 2025, this work is a gem of a love song whose gentle, familiar melody and straightforward, heartfelt lyrics resonate deeply.
Wrapped in warm tones, the chorus adds a sweeping string arrangement that heightens the sense of emotion.
The vocals overflow with pure affection for the other person, and the tender worldview that cherishes everyday, ordinary moments will speak not only to those in love, but to anyone nurturing warm feelings for someone important.
A happy promise.riria.
A story of love and promises woven by Riria’s singing voice.
Its heartwarming melody and relatable lyrics leave a strong impression.
Chosen as the opening theme for season two of the anime “My Happy Marriage,” this song also opens the album “Kiseki” (Traces).
It portrays the complex emotions of someone in love—the joy of discovering one’s true self and the anxieties on the path to happiness.
It’s great to listen to while thinking of an unrequited love, and equally wonderful to share with someone special.
Through this song, you might find the courage to face your own feelings.
swampŌishi Masayoshi
Masayoshi Oishi is the stage name that singer-songwriter Masayoshi Oishi uses for his work as an anisong singer.
The track Numa from his first album Entertainer features an arrangement that, while reminiscent of classic kayōkyoku ensemble style, also evokes the energy of live call-and-response—an impressive blend.
The lyrics, which liken the feeling of falling in love to sinking into a swamp, carry a contemporary persuasiveness that almost anyone can relate to.
With its hooky melody that makes you want to hum along, it’s an addictive pop tune.
I’m going to see you on the last train.Chōkyūmei
The band Chokyuumei, which gained attention after their song “I Want to Be Your Lover” went viral on TikTok, has a hidden gem among their technically polished tracks: “I’m Going to See You on the Last Train.” It was also chosen as the theme song for the drama “A Love That Begins on the Last Train.” The song portrays the love story of a long-distance couple, conveying an urge to take off running through its driving band sound.
It’s a love song where Rei’s rich vocals unfold over a jazzy band performance.
I want to be your lover.Chōkyūmei
When you fall in love, your heart races and your chest tightens, doesn’t it? That’s exactly what the song “I Want to Be Your Lover” sings about.
It’s a track released by the new-generation rock band Choukyuumei.
Repeating the phrase from its title, it compares the feelings of falling in love to chocolate.
Its charming metaphors are sure to make your heart flutter when you listen.
The piano-centered, pop-leaning sound also matches the lyrics perfectly.
Vending Machine LoveHiguchi Ai
Singer-songwriter Ai Higuchi’s bittersweet love song “Jihanki no Koi” (“Vending Machine Love”) brims with aching emotions.
Released as the second installment of Higuchi’s “Love Song Trilogy,” it was written as the theme song for the film “Can You Buy That Love from a Vending Machine?” Haven’t we all experienced those one-sided feelings—riding an emotional roller coaster over the other person’s smallest gestures or words, wondering what they really think of us? It’s a refreshing track that captures the mix of joy and chest-tightening pain with a delicate touch.
presentMarushii
This is a song by Marcy that captures a pure, heartfelt love—wanting to express affection honestly, yet hiding behind shyness.
By describing the simple feeling of “I love you” and portraying the other person’s very existence as a “present,” it skillfully conveys tenderness and gratitude.
Released in September 2024, the song sings of the miraculous, fated encounter among eight billion people, while depicting a devoted wish for the other person’s happiness.
It’s a perfect track for anyone who wants to express their feelings of love sincerely or reaffirm their gratitude toward someone special.