In anime songs, there are insert tracks that only play in a single episode, and sometimes special ending themes too, right?
I imagine many people love those kinds of songs because they let you feel the world of the work more deeply.
So in this article, we’ll be introducing a generous selection of must-hear anime songs—undeniable masterpieces that you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
We’ll cover main themes as well, picking from a wide range of eras.
This playlist is a must-listen for anyone who only knows the theme songs from popular anime!
And for anime lovers, it might have you thinking, “Yes, this is it!”
- [Collection of Epic Songs] A compilation of cool anime songs chosen by anime fans
- [Nostalgic] Classic and Popular Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 30s
- Moving and iconic anime songs, popular tracks
- [Nostalgic] A roundup of anime songs and theme songs that were hits in the 1980s
- Anisongs that were hits in the 2000s: a nostalgic collection of legendary tracks
- A Special Feature on Easy-to-Sing Anime Songs for Karaoke [100+ Songs]
- Touching Anime Ballads That Make You Cry [Moving & Heart-Wrenching]
- Masterpieces of poignant anime songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- [Hot & Cool] Up-tempo, hype-inducing anime song
- The Tear-Jerking World of Heart-Piercing Anime Songs
- [Burning] A Collection of Hype, Hot Anime Songs
- [Nostalgic & Latest] A Special Feature on Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 20s
- Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z
Listen More! A Collection of Hidden Anime Song Gems (1–10)
akane-iro (madder red; deep crimson; sunset red)Mr. Sato and Suzuki
Many people say this song has stayed with them.
It was used as the ending theme for the anime adaptation of the highly popular “Kaiketsu Zorori” series among elementary school students.
The track was created by Sato-san and Suzuki-kun under an alternate name for the music duo little by little, and it was released as a single in 2004.
While the song has a kid-friendly feel, it can evoke a strong sense of nostalgia for adults—like memories of playing with friends at dusk coming back to you.
When you’re tired or feeling down, this song might be there to comfort you.
Stars swimMacaroni Enpitsu
The song created by Macaroni Enpitsu as the opening theme for the TV anime “Summer Time Rendering” is a track that sings of a fleeting yet beautiful story, like fireworks coloring a summer night sky.
From the protagonist’s perspective, it portrays resolve, the grief of losing someone precious, and memories growing distant, all carried by an exhilarating rock sound.
Included on their major-label 2nd EP “Tama-shii no Ibasho” (A Place for the Soul), the song was released digitally in April 2022 and was crafted with the image of summer’s restlessness and a fate that fades like scattered sparks.
Seamlessly harmonizing with the anime’s worldview, it’s a perfect choice for those who want to delve deeper into the story or feel the bittersweet ache of summer.
Moonlight's GuidepostSTEREOPONY
This song was chosen as the opening theme for the anime DARKER THAN BLACK: Gemini of the Meteor.
It’s by the rock band Stereopony and was released in 2009 as their fifth single.
It’s a classic guitar rock number with a sound that blends coolness with a touch of sadness.
The lyrics convey a heartfelt message: “I haven’t found the answers to life yet, but I’ll keep moving forward,” which is truly moving.
chocolate insomniaTsubasa Hanekawa (Yui Horie)
On a nerve-wracking, heart-pounding Valentine’s Day, how about mustering some courage by listening to “chocolate insomnia,” sung by Tsubasa Hanekawa, voiced by Yui Horie? This gem was used as the opening theme for the anime Nekomonogatari (White).
Its sweetly wistful melody conveys the bittersweetness of love and the courage to take a step forward.
Let your dreamed-of feelings of love ride on the song and help you share your heart with someone special on Valentine’s Day.
Yui Horie’s gentle voice feels like it speaks the words that get stuck when you’re nervous.
Why not let the moving rhythm of this song carry you into a wonderful day?
Time after time ~In the town where flowers dance~Mai Kuraki
Mai Kuraki, who has been recognized by Guinness World Records for performing the most anime theme songs by the same artist.
Her 2003 release “Time after time ~In the city where the flowers dance~” was used as the theme song for Detective Conan: Crossroad in the Ancient Capital, a film from the now hugely popular series enjoyed by adults as well.
It brings back memories, doesn’t it? The song evokes Kyoto in step with the film’s story, portraying the beauty of Japan’s seasons and a fleeting love.
Its fragile, delicate emotions revolve through the graceful melody and Kuraki’s vocals, making it a masterpiece that resonates deeply.
Seeking TomorrowXAI
The insert song “Asu o Tazunete” from episode 9 of the anime The Apothecary Diaries is a masterpiece that powerfully conveys hope for the future and a spirit of exploration.
The lyrics link together faint lights floating in the cold night, searching for a tomorrow yet unseen, projecting a confrontation with choices of the heart that words alone cannot fully express.
Released digitally on December 4, 2023, the song features lyrics by XAI and composition/arrangement by Satoru Kousaki.
Its delicate words and the beautiful melody that matches the anime’s atmosphere leave a strong impression.
RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
This rock tune delivers a hopeful message centered on positive self-transformation.
It powerfully portrays the feelings of those wrestling with conflict and uncertainty, gently giving listeners a push forward.
Released as a single by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION in August 2004, it was also included on the album Sol-fa.
Chosen as the opening theme for Season 4 of the TV anime Fullmetal Alchemist, it earned high popularity among anime fans.
In 2024, it was also featured in promotional footage for the M-1 Grand Prix.
It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone looking to take a new step or to find their own path.