[Cheering Songs] Japanese tracks to listen to when you’re troubled, lost, or feeling anxious
As we go through life, everyone experiences anxiety and the like.
Even within that anxiety, there can be confusion, worries, and all sorts of things.
Here, we’ll introduce a whole lineup of uplifting songs that will support your heart in times like these!
If you’re looking for a way to deal with the negative feelings you’re carrying right now, be sure to read to the end!
I’m sure you’ll find songs that truly resonate with your feelings.
There are plenty of tracks that can even turn your anxiety into something positive, so try finding the ones that suit you!
- [Love Songs] Carefully selected Japanese tracks that comfort feelings of anxiety!
- [When you’re troubled] A life anthem that stands by your side
- Songs to listen to when you’re feeling down! Tracks that boost your self-confidence
- [Support for the Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough
- [A Cheer for Myself] A pep song dedicated to you who are doing your very best
- Timeless songs that sing of hopes and dreams. Masterpieces that lead those who strive toward the future.
- [For those doing their best] A comforting song to listen to when you're tired of life
- [Healing] A song that eases worries and anxiety and puts your mind at ease. A comforting song.
- [Yami Song] Fight darkness with darkness!? Deep tracks that stay close to your pain
- [A Life-Affirming Anthem] An Encouraging Song to Cheer You On
- [Dark Songs] A carefully curated selection of deeply dark tracks and heartbreaking songs that accompany you in tough times
- A famous song about setbacks. A song that stays by your side when times are tough or you feel like giving up.
- Just by listening, you’ll feel braver! Cheer songs recommended for the Yutori generation
[Cheer Songs] Japanese tracks to listen to when you're troubled, lost, or anxious (51–60)
paprikaFoorin
Foorin electrified audiences across Japan with their performance at the 2019 NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
Speaking of them, it’s all about NHK’s theme song “Paprika,” isn’t it? When I listen to this song, I feel like my steps get a little lighter than usual.
I’ve heard there are kids who reflexively start dancing the moment it comes on—it’s that happy, mood-lifting kind of phenomenon.
The catchy melody, written and composed by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu, is a pleasure to hum along to.
AnswerIkuta Rira
Lila Ikuta delivers a heartwarming medium-tempo ballad that gently stays close to the anxieties and uncertainties of one’s future.
Amid a grand, dramatic arrangement, its warm melody stands out—offering the courage to take a step forward toward tomorrow while facing loneliness and pain.
It’s an encouraging song that softly nudges those who are unsure of their path.
Released in March 2021, the piece was also featured as the CM song for Tokio Marine Nichido Anshin Life’s “Disability Income Insurance,” resonating with many listeners.
It’s a moving, tear-evoking track we hope those searching for their own way, or spending days without clear answers, will hear.
RIVERAKB48
Released in 2009 as AKB48’s 14th major single.
The song features Minami Takahashi and Atsuko Maeda in the center positions and became the group’s first to reach No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It powerfully supports those who keep taking on challenges, encouraging listeners to believe in themselves and work toward making their dreams come true.
Go for it!!Urufuruzu
It was Ulfuls’ ninth single, released in 1995.
This song earned them their first appearance on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
It’s an upbeat track that makes you feel like you can keep going when times are tough or your spirit is about to break.
The pop sound really lifts your mood.
[Cheer Songs] Japanese tracks to listen to when you're troubled, lost, or anxious (61–70)
YAH YAH YAHCHAGE and ASKA
When it comes to uplifting J-pop songs from the ’90s, this has to be the one.
Released in 1993, CHAGE and ASKA’s signature hit “YAH YAH YAH” remains hugely popular.
Ever since it took off, countless people have felt it push them forward in tough times or when they were low on energy.
The chorus, sung with call-and-response shouts, is incredibly catchy and sticks in your head.
It’s the perfect track to listen to at crucial moments, like before a game or a test.
Fukuwarai (a traditional Japanese “lucky laugh” face-making game)Takahashi Yuu
Yu Takahashi has many songs that give you the strength to keep going when times are tough and help you stay positive.
This track is exactly one of those: it conveys, in a straightforward way, that smiles are a universal language that transcends linguistic barriers.
The hope that one person’s smile will inspire another’s, creating a happy chain that spreads across the world, really resonates.
Released in February 2011 as Takahashi’s third single, this song became widely loved as the CM song for Tokyo Metro’s “TOKYO HEART.” For some reason, Yu Takahashi’s music brings a deep sense of reassurance—it makes you feel like you have an unfailing ally.
Listening to it gives you that comforting feeling, like a dose of nourishment for the heart—an empowering number.
＋MatterONE OK ROCK
This work stands out with its powerful vocals and dynamic band sound.
Released on December 6, 2024, the song was originally performed only as an encore during the world tour.
It is also included on the album “DETOX,” released on February 21, 2025.
The lyrics, themed around self-esteem and the meaning of existence, resonate deeply with listeners.
When you want to reaffirm your own worth, this song is sure to help you.