Moving and iconic anime songs, popular tracks
From the latest anime songs to nostalgic national favorites everyone knows—opening themes, insert songs, ending themes—we present a selection of tear-jerking anime tracks, featuring classic and popular picks recommended by our editorial staff.
Some parts that were cut in the TV broadcast versions are included here—why not listen to the full-length versions from this list?
You’ll surely get chills when you discover deeper lyrics or keywords that tie directly into the anime’s scenes.
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Moving anime song masterpieces and popular tracks (71–80)
single-minded; wholehearted; devoted; earnestKing Gnu
A masterpiece that brilliantly fuses fierce passion with fleeting poignancy.
Released in December 2021 as the theme song for the film Jujutsu Kaisen 0, this work powerfully conveys a pure, unwavering love.
Its devoted resolve—to sacrifice everything for the one you love—is portrayed through a dynamic progression that shakes the listener to the core.
It’s also striking how the relationship between the film’s protagonists, Yuta Okkotsu and Rika Orimoto, is sublimated into a uniquely crafted lyrical world.
An undying classic that resonates deeply with anyone in love.
Beyond a thousand nightsAqua Timez
This is “Sen no Yoru wo Koete” by the band Aqua Timez, who shocked many by suddenly announcing their disbandment in 2018.
It was used as the theme song for the Bleach theatrical anime and achieved million-selling status.
In addition to this track, the band released numerous beloved hits that anyone can hum along to, such as Niji, the theme song for the hugely popular drama Gokusen, and the classic Toushindai no Love Song.
Stars swimMacaroni Enpitsu
A gem of a ballad themed around the restlessness and transience of summer.
Released by Macaroni Empitsu in April 2022, it was written as the opening theme for the TV anime “Summer Time Rendering.” Its bittersweet lyrics and exhilarating sound leave a strong impression, depicting the sense of loss after losing someone precious and the struggle against fate.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on a summer night—perfect for times of heartbreak or parting from someone important.
As you listen, you’ll likely find yourself relating it to your own experiences.
Savor this masterpiece packed with everything that makes Macaroni Empitsu so compelling—you’re sure to be moved.
It’s like a small light.Sayuri
A poignant song imbued with a message of seeking a light of hope even in the darkness.
Sayuri’s delicate, emotionally rich voice stirs the listener’s heart.
Released in February 2016, it was used as the ending theme for the anime ERASED (Boku Dake ga Inai Machi).
The lyrics, which sing of facing the past and resolving to change the future, mirror the protagonist’s emotions.
They portray a yearning for a warm place one wishes to protect, creating an appealing worldview where shadows and hope intersect.
It will be a gentle, comforting presence for those trying to overcome difficult times.
Winding RoadMAN WITH A MISSION
An ambitious work that portrays a powerful sprint through life’s twists and turns with lyrics that skillfully interweave English and Japanese.
MAN WITH A MISSION’s signature hard-hitting rap-rock sound blends seamlessly with a grand melody, gripping the listener’s heart.
The track was included on the single “Take Me Under / Winding Road,” released in April 2018, which reached No.
4 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
It was later featured on the album “Chasing the Horizon.” Around the same time, it was selected as the opening theme for Season 1 of the TV anime “Golden Kamuy,” garnering attention as a song perfectly suited to the sweeping story set in Hokkaido at the end of the Meiji era.
This is a song for everyone who keeps moving forward, believing in the dawn despite setbacks and hardships.
BOW AND ARROWKenshi Yonezu
Released in January 2025, Kenshi Yonezu’s new song was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Medalist.
Set in the world of figure skating, the track features lyrics that closely mirror the story of a coach who has experienced setbacks and a girl embarking on the path she admires, supporting each other as they aim higher.
Using the bow and arrow—items that rely on one another—as symbolic motifs, it deftly portrays the two of them advancing toward their dream in step.
The anecdote that Yonezu, a fan of the original manga, personally offered to create the song also shows his deep attachment to the work.
It’s sure to give you a powerful push on your back as you spread your wings toward a new goal.
For Fruits BasketRitsuko Okazaki
Used as the opening theme for Fruits Basket, this song features Ritsuko Okazaki’s gentle vocals and a calm melody that naturally puts you at ease as you listen.
Since this anime is extremely well-crafted as a romance, if you like the opening theme, you’ll surely get hooked on the series too.