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

Being a little short is just right.YUTORI-SEDAI

YUTORI-SEDAI – Just Enough by Being a Little Short [Official Music Video]

The lyrics sweetly and poignantly portray a girl’s feelings of love—truly memorable! YUTORI-SEDAI’s song is a love anthem that stands by the hearts of high schoolers dealing with unrequited feelings.

Its unique take on romance—“love that’s a little lacking is just right”—has resonated with many.

Released in October 2023, the track became a viral hit on TikTok, and the music video featuring cast members from a popular dating show also drew attention.

It’s the perfect song for those in the midst of youth, to listen to while thinking of someone they like.

High school students struggling with love—why not listen to this song and find a bit of courage?

Love is hard.Lilia.

riria. / Love Is Difficult. feat. Aru. from Miteinohanashi [Music Video]

This song gently accompanies the start of love, portraying the bittersweet feelings within.

It interweaves the perspective of a girl who struggles because she can’t read the other person’s feelings and a boy who can’t quite express his own, vividly capturing the miscommunications of romance.

Riria’s clear, translucent voice and Aru.’s gentle vocals match exquisitely, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released digitally in November 2023, it sparked a big response, especially on social media.

It’s a must-listen for high school students wrestling with love.

If you listen while thinking of someone you like, you’re sure to find moments you can relate to.

Snow SmileBUMP OF CHICKEN

Snow Smile @ Zepp Sapporo

A song I absolutely want to listen to when winter comes.

The balance between the pop melody and the mellow lyrics is exquisite.

The happiness of slipping your hand into his pocket and holding hands there.

A feeling of being fulfilled.

And with the very last word, the entire mood changes dramatically.

Happiness is...Crystal Kay

Crystal Kay “What Happiness Is.” Music Video (Short ver.) – Theme song for NHK Drama 10 ‘Daisy Luck’

Crystal Kay released the single “Eternal Memories” in 1999 at the age of 13, and in 2018 she released “Shiawase tte,” which was featured in the NHK drama Daisy Luck.

With lyrics that encourage you to be yourself and her powerful vocals, it’s a song that lifts your spirits.

Just The Way You AreEXILE ATSUSHI

EXILE ATSUSHI / Just The Way You Are (Music Video)

This is a song in which EXILE’s ATSUSHI covers Bruno Mars’s global hit “Just The Way You Are.” Even though the lyrics are in Japanese, the track is crafted so meticulously that you might feel as if you’re listening to the original.

It’s a love song popular enough to be used at weddings, so listen while paying attention to the lyrics.

A Little Love SongMONGOL800

MONGOL800 / A Small Love Song

“Chiisana Koi no Uta” is a song by MONGOL800, a three-piece rock band formed in Okinawa in 1998, included on their 2001 album “MESSAGE.” It regained popularity in 2007 when it was used as an insert song in the drama “Proposal Daisakusen.” With its up-tempo rhythm, it’s an uplifting track that feels like it gives a push to romance.

Little SummerSPYAIR

Little Summer SPYAIR

Above all, I love vocalist IKE’s evocative expressiveness that conjures vivid scenes, the wonderful melodies, and the distinctive lyrics.

This kind of imagination might not blossom until you’re around college age.

You can strongly feel the resolve that comes precisely from caring about the other person.