Recommended love songs for college students: Japanese love songs you should listen to when a romance begins

sparklewacci

wacci “Kirameki MV & Trailer”

This song really brings out the endearing side of a man’s approach to love.

In a good way, the vocals by Hashiguchi aren’t trying to be ridiculously cool; his down-to-earth voice and words are incredibly lovable.

The exciting intro is also captivating.

Love PhotosAi Otsuka

Ai Otsuka / Love Photo (Short Ver.)

Although Ai Otsuka is often associated with a lively image, this song—which also became a massive hit as a movie theme—is a bittersweet love ballad for adults.

With the film set on a university campus and the protagonist being a college student, many listeners have likely found themselves overlaying their own experiences onto certain scenes while thinking of this song.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to after a gentle rain.

I tried falling in love with you.chay

chay "I Tried Falling in Love with You" (short ver.)

Chay is a singer-songwriter who debuted in 2014 and decided to pursue a career as a singer when she entered university.

“Anata ni Koi wo Shitemimashita” is a song that cheerfully encourages the start of a romance amid campus life full of new encounters, where each day is stimulating with love, studies, and thoughts about the future.

Did I become an idiot or something?Masaki Suda

Masaki Suda: “Did I get stupid or something?”

A hidden gem by Masaki Suda that sings about the feeling of falling in love and losing control.

This track is the B-side to the single “Mita Koto mo Nai Keshiki,” released in June 2017.

Written and composed by Kazuya Kaneki, it beautifully portrays an awkward heart in love—acting unlike oneself after falling for someone.

Suda’s straightforward vocals blend perfectly with the acoustic sound.

If you’re feeling a bit timid about love, you’ll surely find it relatable.

nuisance; pest; someone who gets in the wayDECO*27

DECO*27 – Love-struck Bug feat. Hatsune Miku

It’s the VOCALOID song ‘Ojama-mushi’ (Love Me, Love Me, Love Me).

The MV’s illustrations and melody are incredibly cute.

It portrays blunt, honest feelings and makes you realize that your emotions aren’t heavy—they’re natural.

It’s a song I’d recommend to people who have trouble being straightforward.

Wherever you areONE OK ROCK

Wherever You Are – ONE OK ROCK Full

Simple lyrics and a simple melody.

That’s exactly why the powerful feelings stand out.

There are many English lyrics, but they’re very easy, so the meaning sinks in naturally as you listen.

It’s a sublime track that conveys such deep love you might even want to play it at a wedding.

Girls don't cry.Rina Katahira

Rina Katahira - Girls Don’t Cry (Music Video)

This song, which portrays a slightly tough-acting girl, really makes the most of Rina Katahira’s slightly husky voice.

It feels like admitting I like them would be a loss, but I can’t stop thinking about them, and because of that I can’t even finish my report—what am I supposed to do… It’s a full-on display of youth, strength, and vulnerability.