[2026] Japanese songs to listen to when you're in love: A collection of J-pop classics

Anemone is the smile of first love.Kitatani Ruki

Ruki Chatan “Anemone Is the Smile of First Love” Official Music Video

This is a song by Ruki Kitaya that delicately portrays the feelings of a poignant unrequited love.

With images like the smile of a first love compared to an anemone flower and a bittersweet encounter in a dream, the song beautifully expresses tender, sweet-and-sour emotions.

Released in May 2024, it moved many listeners and became a hot topic on social media.

The music video features Rana Tanida, deepening the immersion in the song’s world.

It’s recommended for those who can’t bring themselves to confess their feelings, or anyone who wants to reminisce about their first love.

Give it a listen and let it give you the courage to take that first step.

URLSakaguchi Ami

Ami Sakaguchi “URL” Music Video / Ami Sakaguchi – URL

Singer-songwriter Anbo Sakaguchi, who aspired to be a musician in elementary school and even worked as a radio DJ in high school.

Her 6th single “URL,” chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime Horimiya -piece-, is delightful with its cute vocals and pop ensemble.

The lyrics tell the story of wanting to be able to go see the person you like right away, a feeling that resonates even more strongly thanks to the instantly imaginable phrase “URL,” especially for younger generations.

It’s an emotional number that brilliantly contrasts a timeless, universal longing for love with contemporary imagery.

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Hoshino Takashi

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CalendarKawasaki Takaya

Takaya Kawasaki - Calendar [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

This song weaves a special story for two, beginning from the very moment they fall in love.

It warmly portrays days with a loved one through the imagery of a calendar, circling precious memories as they go.

Singer-songwriter Takaya Kawasaki’s captivating husky voice gently embraces the bittersweet feelings of someone in love.

The track is included on the album “Calendar,” released in December 2021.

As his major-label debut, the album is filled with milestones from Kawasaki’s life, such as marriage and the birth of a child.

It’s a recommended song for those whose hearts flutter with the promise of new love, and for anyone wishing to deepen their bond with someone special.

37.2 degreesSugimoto Takuya

Takumi Sugimoto “37.2 Degrees” Official Music Video

A sweet and romantic love song that warms the heart like a slight fever.

Takumi Sugimoto’s clear, translucent voice gently embraces the pangs of unrequited love.

Describing the longing to see someone special as “coming down with a fever” is adorably charming and heart-fluttering, isn’t it? Carried by a relaxed melody, the feelings of a person in love come through straight and true.

Released in May 2024, this song was also chosen as the opening theme for the drama “Bought Man.” It’s a recommended track not only for those with a one-sided crush, but also for anyone who wants to deepen their feelings for someone special.

Can I try saying “I love you”?Matsushita Kohei

Kohei Matsushita – Is It Okay If I Say I Love You? (Music Video)

It’s a warm, heartfelt song that captures honest feelings for a loved one.

Kohei Matsushita’s soulful voice resonates deeply with listeners.

The lyrics brim with the delicate emotions of someone in love, searching for the right moment to say “I love you.” Released digitally in October 2024, the song was written and composed by Takahito Uchisawa of androp.

It portrays those subtle shifts in the heart that make you want to speak words you’re usually too shy to say in everyday life.

Give it a listen when you want to reflect on a cherished relationship or need courage to express your feelings.

It’s sure to stay close to your heart.

How many times have I read over the lyrics of LOVE SONG?Sakurazaka46

Sakurazaka46: “How many times have I gone back and reread the lyrics of LOVE SONG?”

It’s a bittersweet love song for those who fall in love on sleepless nights.

The theme centers on the emotions of a night when you fall in love and the sense of empathy you feel as you read and reread the lyrics of love songs.

It was included as a coupling track on Sakurazaka46’s 8th single, “How Old Do You Wish to Go Back To?”, released in February 2024.

It captures the sweet and aching sides of romance—many will relate to lying awake thinking about someone, or repeatedly going back to love song lyrics.

It’s the perfect track for anyone who’s falling in love right now.

EYES ON YOUNishino Kana

[75th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen Song] 'EYES ON YOU' MV Full

It’s a captivating track that grabs listeners’ hearts and won’t let go.

Released by Kana Nishino in July 2024, this song features striking lyrics themed around love, anxiety, and a vow of eternity.

Its sound blends pop and R&B elements, layered with Nishino’s distinctive vocals that seep into the listener’s heart.

Many will likely relate to the feeling that saying just “I love you” isn’t enough.

As her first single since returning from a hiatus, it became a major topic in the music world.