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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Masterpiece and popular anime songs that move you (141–150)
wrap (as in: wrap up filming)Ikusaburo Yamazaki
A delicate, wistful medium-tempo ballad that begins with the sound of a film camera.
Released digitally in July 2024 as the opening theme for the anime “Twilight Out of Focus,” this piece showcases Ikusaburo Yamazaki’s gentle vocals that sink deep into the heart.
Using a film set’s wrap-up as a metaphor, the lyrics poignantly depict parting and a sense of loss.
They capture miraculous moments and the complex emotions that arise when you recognize an ending, making it a recommended listen when you want to linger in memories or after saying goodbye to someone important.
It’s a moving track that highlights Yamazaki’s exceptional vocal prowess.
To my best friendHiromi Iwasaki
It’s the ending theme of Pokémon.
It’s a song that conveys the friendship between Ash and Pikachu and warms the heart.
After becoming an adult, I came to appreciate the quality of the lyrics more and grew to love it even more.
It’s a gentle, laid-back song that feels cleansing for the soul.
Share The WorldTVXQ (also known as Tohoshinki; literally “Rising Gods of the East”)
A rousing cheer song that powerfully delivers a message of hope and unity! Released in April 2009 as the theme song for the anime ONE PIECE, this track by Tohoshinki captivates listeners with lyrics that resonate deeply and a driving, exhilarating melody that perfectly matches, drawing the audience into the world of the anime.
Debuting at No.
1 on the Oricon daily ranking, it captured the hearts of many.
With lyrics that stir feelings of friendship and a longing for adventure, this song will gently yet firmly nudge you forward as you take your next step.
Moving Anime Song Masterpieces and Popular Tracks (151–160)
ioliteInori Minase
This song features elegant piano tones and Inori Minase’s transparent, crystalline vocals that resonate deeply in the heart.
Released in April 2023, it was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Dead Mount Death Play.
Its powerful message—“Even so, I want to live”—offers the courage to face hardships.
The delicate vocals convey the determination to look ahead despite loneliness and anguish, and they gently accompany the listener’s heart.
When you feel worn out by daily life or on the verge of losing yourself, listening to it can give you the strength to take a new step forward.
Love je t'aimeMahiru Koda
A song brimming with sweet-and-sour romance and passionate emotion has been born.
Its Arabian-flavored sound interweaves exquisitely with jazz elements, gripping listeners’ hearts and never letting go.
Mahiru Koda’s sultry vocals beautifully capture the anime’s world.
Released in January 2024, this piece was written as the ending theme for the TV Tokyo anime “BUCCHIGIRI?!”.
The lyrics, filled with the freshness of youth and the bittersweet pain of love, are universally relatable.
It’s a recommended track not only for those troubled by love, but also for anyone who feels nostalgic for their youthful days.
Embraced by the stars again tonight...Ayaka
Ayaka’s gem of a ballad features a warmly enveloping voice you’ll want to keep listening to forever.
It’s a gentle song that sings of deep feelings for a loved one.
The lyrics portray the poignant emotions of a woman who gazes up at the starry sky every night, thinking of someone dear—feelings that are sure to reach anyone who listens.
Released in July 2007, this piece was also used as the ending theme for the anime The Sky Crawlers.
Sing it with a straightforward, composed vocal tone, pouring your feelings into the simple melody.
ParadiseCAVE
It’s an ending theme from Yu-Gi-Oh!.
I really love the chorus melody and lyrics because they’re so beautiful.
The song, titled “The Sun That Doesn’t Set,” gives me motivation and hope even when I’m feeling down, and it lifts my spirits.
When I listen to this song, it feels like the day is coming to an end.