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 (31–40)
NAKAMAZedd feat. AI

A much-talked-about track born from a dream collaboration between a world-renowned producer and a powerhouse Japanese singer.
It serves as the ending theme for the anime Dragon Ball DAIMA.
Zedd’s gentle yet grand electronic sound blends beautifully with AI’s soulful vocals, resulting in a moving piece.
The lyrics, which sing of unshakable bonds with friends and hope for the future, warmly embrace the listener’s heart.
It’s the kind of song that will set your heart ablaze when you need the courage to take a step forward.
Genesis of AquarionAKINO

It’s the opening theme for the anime “Sousei no Aquarion,” released in 2005.
AKINO wasn’t originally slated to sing it and was supposed to handle backing vocals.
Its popularity continued not only during the broadcast but also afterward, topping download charts and karaoke rankings.
The memorable hook in the chorus was reportedly created after hearing about an episode in the series, making it an addictive song you can’t forget once you’ve heard it.
Diamond CrevasseMay’n

Used as the ending theme and an insert song in Macross Frontier, this track is characterized by May’n’s powerful vocals and its heartrending lyrics.
The words, which describe parting from a loved one and a firm resolve, can make you feel very positive when you listen to it during times of heartbreak or when you’re feeling down.
A gaze is lightTatsuya Kitani

This is a song by Tatsuya Kitani that was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity.” Kitani himself describes the relationship between the characters as “like sunlight piercing through thick clouds,” and the song expresses that beautifully with an emotional sound.
The lyrics capture the preciousness of the moment when their gazes cross, and it’s hard not to feel your heart swell.
If you listen to it while thinking of someone important to you, it’s sure to hit you right in the feels!
My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS

It became a hot topic as an insert song in the smash-hit animated film “Your Name.” As the film enjoyed a long run of success, this song’s sales also grew.
The lyrics, which tie in with the movie’s story, are likely to move you when you listen to them.
Moving anime song masterpieces and popular tracks (41–50)
secret base ~What You Gave Me~ (10 years after Ver.)Ai Kayano, Haruka Tomatsu, Saori Hayami

ZONE’s classic song “secret base ~Kimi ga Kureta Mono~” was covered by voice actors and used as an anime ending theme.
This work, popularly known by the abbreviation “Anohana,” became a hit even among people who don’t usually watch anime.
It’s such a popular song that it consistently ranks near the top of “tear-jerker anime song” lists, so I imagine many people still listen to it even now.
Song that Marks TimeLia

In the opening theme of CLANNAD ~AFTER STORY~, the lyrics that match the main story and Lia’s outstanding vocal performance make it an exceptionally well-crafted song.
It’s wonderful to listen to on its own, but if you listen to it again after watching the anime, it can move you to tears naturally.
If you feel like you haven’t cried much lately, I highly recommend listening to it along with the anime.





