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

So in love I could crySTU48

STU48 13th Single 'I Love You So Much That I Cry' Music Video

Released in March 2026 as STU48’s 13th single, this song drew attention for featuring 3rd Draft member Mai Nakamura as the group’s first sole center.

It portrays the frustrating emotions of a first love—feelings so strong they can’t be put into words, leaving only regret.

The world of concealed, aching emotions tangled with self-loathing will likely remind anyone of the bittersweetness of youth.

An emotional love song with a lyrical melody that resonates with the heart.

As Love SaysNichiyoubi no Mezonde

As Love Says (from “Akira Momose’s First Love in Ruins.”) / Sunday no Maisondé

“As Love Commands” is a song released in February 2026, created based on Shinta Harukawa’s manga “Akira Momose’s First Love in Ruins.” Tomoya Tabuchi of UNISON SQUARE GARDEN wrote and composed the song, with arrangement by Akita Horie.

Vocalist Rei’s translucent voice vividly conveys the frustration of love and the exhilaration of spring, while the driving band sound sets your heart racing.

It’s the perfect track for when you want to feel the sparkle of youth!

Poisoning by a deleterious drug＝LOVE

Poisoning by a deleterious drug

=LOVE is a voice-actor idol group produced by Rino Sashihara.

This work, the title track of their 20th single, also drew attention for featuring a double center with Iori Noguchi and Maika Sasaki.

The lyrics liken dependence and addiction in love to poison and medicine.

Some listeners may see themselves in the aching intensity of that longing.

When you find yourself falling into a sweet yet dangerous love, we recommend immersing yourself and listening to it alone.

A heart tied with a ribbonKaneyori Masaru

Kaneyori Masaru - Ribbon-Wrapped Feelings of Love (Music Video)

Tying a ribbon around a budding crush, hoping that one day you’ll notice me… This work by Kaneyori Masaru, a three-piece rock band based in Osaka, paints a tender, adorable scene of unrequited love.

The words spun by vocalist Mina Chitose vividly capture the complex heart of a young woman—polishing herself in the earnest hope of being liked, while fear and anticipation mingle over revealing her true self.

Released in November 2025, it also sparked major buzz with its music video featuring influencer Aoi Nagase.

Further refined after the album “To Those of Us Who Don’t Live Yesterday,” the band’s sound is sure to gently nudge listeners forward.

It’s a number I hope you’ll lend an ear to if you believe “this is my last love” and want to must er the courage to take that first step.

love10Hama iku

Hamaiku – love10 [MV]

Hamaiku is a duo consisting of Ryuichi Hamaya and Erika Ikuta, the MCs of NHK General’s music program “Venue101.” Released in April 2025, this work is their long-awaited second single following their debut track “Beat DE Tohi.” With Yaffle as producer and lyrics by Furui Riho, the sound blends sophistication with a warm, human touch.

When it was first unveiled at the program’s event in October 2024, the two performed on guitar, which drew additional attention.

This love song, filled with the joy of holding the hand of someone you adore and a pure belief in the future, seems perfect for anyone wishing for their “last love.” It’s a heartwarming number you’ll want to relax with on a leisurely afternoon, together with someone special.

DarlingSuda 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.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?