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

LOVE DEEPER (Prod. m.c.A•T)Reiko

REIKO “LOVE DEEPER (Prod. m.c.A·T)” Music Video

This is a track by REIKO that inscribes a new page in the history of Japanese R&B.

It drew attention for officially sampling “Ryusei no Saddle,” a classic from Toshinobu Kubota’s landmark 1986 album SHAKE IT PARADISE.

The fact that Kubota himself—the original composer—praised it as “several times funkier than the source” speaks to its exceptional quality.

When you want to savor love anew, listening to this song will surely fill you with a gentle, tender feeling.

I like you, please.FRUITS ZIPPER

[MV] FRUITS ZIPPER “Suki, Onegai”

A heartwarming love song that captures the pure feelings of a girl who dreams of an ideal romance, like the heroine of a drama.

It delicately portrays the shift in her emotions—from sweet bedtime fantasies each night to a love that becomes real—set to a tender melody.

Released by FRUITS ZIPPER in February 2025, the song was written as the opening theme for ABEMA’s popular dating reality show “Koisuru ♥ Shuumatsu Homestay 2025 Winter.” It’s a track that gently supports the heart of a girl swaying between ideal and reality, wishing to nurture love one step at a time.

Perfect for anyone who keeps feelings for someone they haven’t confessed to yet, or who dreams of a wonderful, drama-like romance.

DarlingNEW!Suda Keina

Keina Suda – Darling (Music Video)

A striking, direct call to the listener—an irresistibly catchy number that sticks in your head after just one listen.

In this song painted by Keina Suda, the theme centers on deep emotions lurking behind sweet words, like “dependency” and “obsession.” Released digitally in January 2023 and later included on the album Ghost Pop, the piece features pleasing repetitions and rhythms that loop in your mind like infatuation itself.

It’s a song for those who find mere cuteness unsatisfying—perfect for anyone completely and utterly hooked on the one they love.

I long to see you now.NEW!MISIA

MISIA – Aitakute Ima (Official HD Music Video)

A grand ballad that stirs the heart with a bittersweet yet powerful longing to meet a cherished person across time.

Sung by MISIA, renowned for her overwhelming vocal prowess, this piece was written as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “JIN” and released as a single in November 2009.

It was also positioned as the lead single from the album “JUST BALLADE,” and many listeners may remember it alongside the drama’s moving scenes.

The lyrics, capturing the frustration of not being able to meet someone you long for and the overflowing passion within, are perfect for anyone seeking the courage to confess their feelings on Valentine’s Day.

Why not immerse yourself in this soul-stirring voice while making chocolates?

True LoveINI

True Love

It’s a refreshing pop-rock tune that straightforwardly captures the flutter of falling into true love and the exhilarating rush of youth—just listening to it makes your heart leap.

Included on the winter single “THE WINTER MAGIC,” released in November 2025, it also drew attention as the theme song for the film “Romantic Killer,” starring Masaya Kimura alongside Moeka Kamishiraishi and others.

Brimming with such positive energy that you’ll forget the winter chill, it’s the perfect track to play when you want to lift your spirits.

CHE.R.RYYUI

YUI　『CHE.R.RY-short ver.-』

When it comes to songs you want to listen to when you’re in love, it has to be this one.

It captures that fluttery feeling of being head over heels, and even though people say you need to play it cool with someone you like, you’re so into them that you can’t play any games—you just want to reach out right away.

It’s a song that understands the nervous excitement of a girl wrestling with her phone, agonizing over a message in front of her cell because she can’t wait to contact them.

miraclemiwa

miwa 'Miracle' Music Video

This song captures the feeling of a summer romance, perfect for a season filled with sunshine.

Released in April 2013 as the CM song for Shiseido’s SEA BREEZE, it drew attention alongside visuals themed around high school youth.

Its breezy sound—colored by samba-style rhythms and percussion—blends with Miwa’s transparent, clear vocals to vividly express the thrill of summer.

The lyrics, which freshly portray wavering emotions and the anticipation of new encounters, just might give you the courage to leap into love.

The album featuring this track, Delight, topped the weekly album chart and was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of Japan.

It’s a cute summer tune recommended for anyone excited to kick off the season or looking to reminisce about their school days.