Listen More! A Collection of Hidden Gems in Anime Songs

The world that was transparentMotohiro Hata

Motohiro Hata – “The World That Was Transparent” Music Video

This is a heartwarming song crafted by Motohiro Hata as the opening theme for the anime Naruto Shippuden.

Released in August 2010, its sweeping message—reflecting on what has been lost and the resolve to move forward after parting—ties in with the story.

The pop-rock melody, centered on acoustic guitar, is layered with powerful vocals that harmonize beautifully with the anime’s world.

This work is Hata’s 10th single, released in three editions: First Press Limited, Limited Period, and Regular, and it reached No.

13 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

It’s a song that resonates deeply with those who have experienced parting from someone important or are trying to face events from their past.

Katsushika RhapsodyKohei Dojima

KochiKame Opening Theme - Katsushika Rhapsody

The opening theme of the anime adaptation of the long-running Weekly Shonen Jump manga “Kochira Katsushika-ku Kameari Kōen-mae Hashutsujo.” Among the KochiKame opening themes, this song had the second-longest run, after Yoshimi Tendo’s “Damatte Ore ni Tsuitekoi.” At the request of the original author, Osamu Akimoto, the lyrics incorporate the names of actual places and facilities.

It’s a song brimming with the old-town charm said to be dwindling even in Tokyo—a deeply nostalgic track for those who live nearby.

ContrastTOMOO

TOMOO – Contrast [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

A heartwarming song that honestly weaves together the sweet, wistful emotions of youth.

Released in January 2024 by TOMOO as the ending theme for the second cour of the TV anime “Blue Box,” the piece beautifully captures the contrasting feelings in love—joy and melancholy, closeness and distance.

Its emotive vocals over a comfortable melody that fuses piano and pop leave a strong impression.

Created by layering teenage experiences with the artist’s current perspective, the song blends pure emotions with the reflections that come with adulthood.

It’s a perfect track for those who can’t quite be honest about their feelings of love or who struggle with the distance between themselves and someone important.

Wonderful LifeMikio Sakai

Wonderful Life

This piece is a song with a profound message that teaches the wonder of life and the meaning of living.

It’s a work by singer-songwriter Mikio Sakai and was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Planetes.

Even amid tiring days, it urges us to love ourselves and find the courage to take a new step forward, offering bravery and hope when we’re lost in life or on the verge of losing ourselves.

Its refreshing melody makes it genuinely pleasant to listen to.

Shower of energyAki Maeda

03 Shower of Cheer

Aki Maeda’s “Genki no Shower” (“Shower of Cheer”) captivates with a melody and tone that convey the warmth of friendship.

Released on July 5, 2000, it was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters that aired the same year.

Its powerful lyrics, which inspire courage and hope in the face of loneliness, are especially memorable, easing feelings of solitude and reminding you that you’re not alone.

It’s a cheer-up song perfect for times when you’re feeling down or struggling with worries.

Round & LaundryCAROLE & TUESDAY (Nai Br.XX & Celeina Ann)

Day By Day

It portrays the yearning for dreams, the difficulties along the way, and the power of friendship to overcome them.

It’s a song from the anime Carol & Tuesday, released on October 30, 2019, and included on the album CAROLE & TUESDAY Supporting Tracks Vol.

1.

Its heartwarming lyrics and melody gently embrace the complex emotions that come with chasing one’s dreams.

This track is recommended not only for anime fans, but for anyone ready to take a step toward their dreams.

Stain on one kneeLAST ALLIANCE

LAST ALLIANCE – Stain on One Knee [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

A track whose exhilarating melody and delicate lyrics strike straight to the heart.

Included on the single “Always in My Heart,” released on April 16, 2008, and used as the ending theme for the anime “RD Sennou Chousashitsu” (Real Drive), this song is a pivotal work that showcases the musical versatility of the rock band LAST ALLIANCE.

Its message—pressing forward without giving up in the face of hardship, overcoming life’s trials, and pursuing one’s ideals—will surely inspire courage and hope in listeners.

The high-octane sound arrangement is electrifying.

It’s a classic that everyone chasing their dreams while confronting an unjust reality should definitely hear.