Tear-jerking love songs: classic and popular hits from Japanese music

25th ChromosomeRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – The 25th Chromosome [Official Music Video]

Speaking of RADWIMPS, many people strongly associate them with their huge hit “Zenzenzense,” the theme song of Your Name.

However, their debut song “Nijūgokome no Senshokutai” (The 25th Chromosome) features a development that feels more quintessentially RADWIMPS, and its lyrics—pleasantly unsettling in a good way, with a stalker-like vibe—are excellent.

It’s a perfect entry point for those who discovered RADWIMPS through “Zenzenzense.”

Smile and say goodbyeFujifabric

Fujifabric / Laugh and Say Goodbye

Speaking of Fujifabric during Masahiko Shimura’s era, songs like “Akane-iro no Yūhi,” “Aki Kiiro no Kinmokusei,” and “Wakamono no Subete” are often cited as masterpieces, but in contrast, “Waratte Sayonara” can be considered a hidden gem.

It’s a song about brooding over one’s own failings toward an ex-lover, sinking into regret and sorrow.

If you listen to it right after a breakup, you’ll definitely cry.

Little LoversSUPER★DRAGON

Little Lovers

SUPER★DRAGON delivers the theme song for the heartwarming, kindness-filled TV anime “The Lord and His Dog.” This medium-tempo pop-rock track features a flowing, soothing melody that leaves a lasting impression.

It tenderly weaves feelings for a beloved companion and hopes for the future, beautifully portraying two beings moving forward while supporting each other amid changing times and cityscapes.

The song has been used as the theme for the TV anime “The Lord and His Dog” since October 2024 and is fully produced by Sohei Mishima of cinema staff.

It’s a perfect track not only for dog lovers, but also for moments when you want to feel the bond with someone dear, or when your heart feels a little tired.

MapleCYCLE

Spitz / Kaede

Although the lyrics aren’t written in particularly straightforward language, I think it’s a timeless masterpiece that never loses its luster, as evidenced by how many artists have covered it over the years.

The version of Kaede that Motohiro Hata and Superfly collaborated on is wonderful too, but the original remains a song where Masamune Kusano’s gentle voice truly resonates.

An unfinished love song I've been working on foreverMotohiro Hata

Motohiro Hata “An Always-Unfinished Love Song” Music Video

Written specifically as the theme song for the film “A Love Letter on Our 35th Year,” this gem of a ballad gently and warmly portrays a love that deepens with the passage of time.

Motohiro Hata’s clear, luminous vocals resonate as if tenderly enveloping feelings for a cherished person.

The track began streaming in February 2025, and a CD single was released in March ahead of the film’s premiere.

The movie depicts a husband who, upon retiring, struggles to write a love letter to his wife; accompanying the protagonist’s emotions, Hata carefully weaves his words like a letter.

It’s a song we recommend to anyone who, in the course of days shared with someone precious, has rediscovered the profound significance of their presence.

existenceTENSONG

TENSONG 'Existence' [Official Music Video]

This is a heart-stirring song by TENSONG that vividly portrays the pain of heartbreak.

Released in December 2020, the track was created by guitarist Takuman based on his real-life experience, carefully depicting the emotions of being trapped in memories while trying to take a new step forward.

Vocalist Takabo’s high-tone voice expresses those feelings beautifully, and the deeply resonant melody line leaves a strong impression.

The music video is an animated piece created by an illustrator who was their classmate and reached 1.

8 million views in eight months.

It’s a song that offers comfort to those carrying the pain of a broken heart or who’ve experienced parting with someone important; we recommend listening to it alone on a quiet night.

spin; weave; compose (e.g., a story)tota

Tsumugu / Tota

A gemlike love song woven from evanescent yet beautiful poetic expressions and a crystal-clear singing voice.

While skillfully depicting scenes from nature, it delicately conveys the feelings of thinking about someone dear.

When Tota posted it on social media in June 2021, it quickly sparked a huge response.

In December 2022, it was selected as the tie-in song for a Pure Gummy web commercial, and the full version was released in February of the following year.

Recommended for those who want to face everyday reality while feeling the sorrow of losing someone precious and the strength to keep looking forward.