Songs whose titles start with 'I'. Masterpieces that begin with 'I'.
I’m going to introduce songs with titles that start with “i” (the Japanese syllable pronounced ee)!
When you think of “i,” words like ichigo (strawberry), iruka (dolphin), and iro (color) come to mind, so it’s not a particularly tricky letter even in shiritori, right?
But what about when it comes to song titles?
Actually, there are plenty of songs whose titles start with “i”!
In this article, I’ve gathered a variety of Japanese songs—both old and new—whose titles begin with “i.”
You might even find some you listen to regularly.
Feel free to use this as a reference when playing song-title shiritori and the like!
- A compilation of Vocaloid songs with titles that start with “I.”
- Songs with titles starting with “Ki” [Great for karaoke & shiritori!]
- Songs with titles that start with “Su.” A collection of tracks useful for shiritori.
- Masterpieces with titles that start with 'A'
- Songs with titles that start with “Chi.” Useful as hints for word-chain games!
- Songs with titles starting with “E” [Great for karaoke and shiritori, too!]
- A compilation of Vocaloid songs with titles that start with “Ki”
- Songs with titles that start with 'Ke'
- Songs with titles that start with a number. Useful for karaoke or playlist selection.
- Vocaloid Songs for When You Want to Cry [Moving and Heart-wrenching]
- Songs that start with the letter “Shi.” Perfect for shiritori or karaoke!
- A roundup of songs with titles that start with “N” [There are actually more than you’d expect!!]
- Collection of song titles that start with 'Ni'
Songs whose titles start with “I.” Great songs that start with “I” (271–280)
A strawberry is a strawberry.Lyrics: Kiyomi Kotaki / Music: Taishi Fujita
This is a charming song with a bright, rhythmic, and fun melody paired with heartwarming lyrics.
It was broadcast in May 1997 as the “Song of the Month” on NHK’s Okaasan to Issho, with lyrics by Kiyomi Kotaki and music by Taishi Fujita.
The gently told story follows a protagonist who dreams of becoming a cake and, while chasing that dream, discovers their own true self—making it a song that enriches children’s imaginations.
Sung and beloved by Kentaro Hayami and Ayumi Shigemori, it was later carried on by Akihiro Sugita and Ryoko Tsumoda.
It is also included on the album NHK Okaasan to Issho Memorial Album and has been cherished by many children.
It’s perfect for humming during walks or outdoor play, and for singing together on spring field trips or fun outings.
When sung with family, it’s sure to become a wonderful memory that shares the joy of spring.
1/2Makoto Kawamoto
A timeless youth anthem where tender ache and deep affection overflow, carried by the comforting resonance of acoustic guitar.
The lyrics delicately depict a powerful wish to become one with another, and the frustration of that wish remaining out of reach, gently embracing the kind of love we’ve all felt.
Seamlessly blending Makoto Kawamoto’s translucent voice with her unique worldview, the song reached No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart after its release in March 1997, and etched itself into many hearts as the opening theme of the anime Rurouni Kenshin.
It’s a heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to when you long to share in pure feelings, thinking of someone special.
Koi in the pondMonbushō Shōka (Ministry of Education Songs)
This is a Ministry of Education school song that can be enjoyed while picturing the refreshing scenery of the season.
The gentle way it addresses the carp swimming in the pond brings a sense of calm and warmth.
Included in May 1911 in “Elementary School Songs for the First Grade,” this piece has been loved for many years for its bright, friendly melody and soothing lyrics.
It has appeared in music textbooks and has been passed down through school education.
It will surely resonate in your heart along with nostalgic memories.
Singing it with older adults may revive happy memories from the past and naturally spark conversation.
It’s an ideal song for music activities in care facilities.
My beloved treasureAyano Tsuji
We’d like to introduce a warm, heartfelt song that helps you preserve joyful memories of raising your child.
Ayano Tsuji’s portrayal of parent–child love resonates with the gentle sound of the ukulele.
This bright, cozy piece is dedicated to parents who want to cherish and keep moments of closeness with their children.
Released in June 2018 as the theme song for Kagoshima TV’s parent-and-child support initiative, the “Smile Baby Project,” it tenderly sings of the joy of growing together with your child.
It’s perfect for recording precious moments with your baby or as soothing background music for putting your little one to sleep.
The gentle vocals and melody will deepen your family bonds even more.
Pilgrimage Without PrayersSatsuki
This is a Vocaloid song that portrays a journey of facing your true self—neither self-admonishment nor mere ornamentation.
Created by Satsuki, it was released in February 2025.
The call-and-response between three UTAU voicebanks—Kasane Teto, Adachi Rei, and Utane Uta—adds a nuanced flavor, and the energetic sound that fuses electronic music with rock leaves a strong impression.
The lyrics, which capture the resolve to carve out your own path without praying for miracles and the struggle to find something universal, resonate deeply.
I think it’s an UTAU track that can really fire you up.
I am most delighted.Mai Kitazawa
A pure love song wrapped in kindness, expressing the feelings of unrequited love with the classical word “ito.” It’s a work by Mai Kitazawa, released by Tokuma Japan Communications in February 2025.
The song celebrates the timeless beauty of love that doesn’t change with age, conveying a warm message that simply caring for someone is itself a source of happiness.
With its calm vocals and emotionally rich arrangement that resonate deeply, this is her third single since moving to Tokuma Japan.
The worldview woven from archaic language and a modern melody will gently accompany anyone who holds dear feelings for someone special.
1 pieceShino Mirin
The tense sound design sends shivers through me.
Mirin Shiino’s “1 Piece” is a satirical work that likens modern society’s information consumption culture to a meal.
Released in February 2025, it was an entry for VocaColle Winter 2025.
This piece, which renders sharp insights into the Vocaloid scene, creative culture, and society, prompts us to reflect on how we live.
It’s an avant-garde Vocaloid track, perfect for when you want to sink into deep thought.