Autumn anime songs: iconic tracks for the deepening fall

Walk the wastelandASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Walk on the Wilderness”

A refreshing yet slightly bittersweet power-pop track by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, a band that represents Japan’s rock scene.

This work vividly portrays the sweet-and-sour exhilaration and anxiety of chasing someone you admire and racing through a mysterious night.

Carrying secret feelings in your heart and stepping into the wilderness known as the unknown, it’s a song that will surely give listeners courage.

Released in March 2017 as the band’s 24th single, it colored the story as the theme song for the animated film “The Night Is Short, Walk On Girl.” It’s a number that powerfully pushes you forward when you want to start something new but can’t quite take the first step.

moonbowBUMP OF CHICKEN

TV Anime 'Karakuri Circus' Second Animation PV

This is a song released as the opening theme for the anime Karakuri Circus.

It has that signature BUMP OF CHICKEN feel—a cool, driving sense of speed.

The simple, straightforward band sound matches the anime’s atmosphere perfectly.

AndanteClariS

ClariS “Andante” Music Video [TV Anime “Spice and Wolf: MERCHANT MEETS THE WISE WOLF” Ending Theme]

An anime song that sings of a new departure, marked by emotionally stirring, beautiful harmonies.

Chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime “Spice and Wolf: Merchant Meets the Wise Wolf,” this track is by the popular music duo ClariS—known for numerous anime theme songs such as “Connect” and “Hitorigoto”—and was released in May 2024 as their 28th single.

Its Irish-inspired sound, layered with the duo’s clear, translucent vocals, creates a world with a touch of the exotic.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to listen to on a leisurely walk during an autumn evening.

Togetsu Bridge ~Thinking of You~NEW!Mai Kuraki

Mai Kuraki “Togetsukyo ~Kimi Omou~” Music Video (Short Ver.)

A ballad released in April 2017 as the theme song for the film Detective Conan: The Crimson Love Letter, set in autumnal Kyoto.

Its lyrics, woven with distinctly Japanese imagery such as the Togetsukyo Bridge, flowing rivers, and autumn foliage, perfectly suit the season and tenderly depict the aching feelings of someone pining for a loved one.

With this song, Mai Kuraki marked her 21st musical contribution to the Conan series, earning a Guinness World Record.

The arrangement incorporating traditional Japanese instruments and the music video featuring junihitoe robes, among other Kyoto-inspired touches, are also captivating.

Why not listen to it on a long autumn night and reminisce about your school days watching Conan?

sixth-magnitude starcoarse sugar

My Hero Academia Season 7, Cour 2 Ending Non-Credit Video / Ending Theme: "Sixth-Magnitude Star" by Zarame

It’s a perfect song for autumn scenery.

Sung by Zarame, a negative–positive singer-songwriter, it was released as a digital single in July 2024.

It was selected as the ending theme for Season 7, Cour 2 of the anime My Hero Academia.

While rooted in rock, it unfolds with a poignant melody and emotional lyrics that leave a strong impression.

The song reflects feelings for a precious presence that has been lost, resulting in something that really hits home.

When you’re feeling lonely, this track might just save you.

celestial chartCendrillon

[MV] Sandalion / Celestial Chart (TV anime “Hoshikuzu Telepath” ending theme song)

Set against the grandeur of the cosmos, this song sings of love and hope.

Released in October 2023, it was chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime “Stardust Telepath.” Its clear, airy vocals and a sound that fuses electronica with J-pop leave a strong impression.

The lyrics embody the courage to journey into the unknown and the deep bonds with a loved one, warming the heart with every listen.

It’s the perfect track for when you’re tired or need a boost.

How about listening to it on a long autumn night while gazing up at the stars?

RomantiqueNaotaro Moriyama

Naotaro Moriyama “Romantique / ROMANTIQUE” Music Video

A song that portrays the changing seasons in a romantic light.

Created by singer-songwriter Naotaro Moriyama, it was released in January 2024 and written as the theme song for the anime Ochibi-san.

The lyrics weave in seasonal scenery—spring’s cherry blossoms, summer’s water lilies, autumn’s fragrant olive, and winter’s plum blossoms—leaving a very beautiful impression.

The harmony of the chill sound and the gentle vocals is lovely as well.

Highly recommended for those who want to cherish the small moments of everyday life.