A collection of romance-themed songs. Let’s listen to some Japanese love songs.

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number

back number – Takane no Hanako-san (full)

If you’re starting to feel, “I want to try going out with that person…,” the song you should listen to is “Takaneno Hanako-san.” It was released in 2013 by back number, a rock band known for singing about all kinds of love stories.

Its upbeat rhythm and lively band sound really hit home.

Many people will relate to the lyrics filled with bittersweet longing.

The melody is crafted to captivate those who love music festivals and live houses, too.

Give this passionate track a listen and let it fuel the excitement of your crush.

Blue JeansHANA

HANA / Blue Jeans -Music Video-

A mid-tempo ballad that portrays a tender yet slightly bittersweet love, like a pair of well-worn jeans.

This track, released in July 2025 by HANA, who emerged from the audition show “No No Girls,” features lyrics written by producer Chanmina.

You can really feel the ache of nighttime anxiety—wondering “When will we meet again?”—and the loss of confidence that comes from comparing yourself to others.

Although their debut single “ROSE” topped the charts, this release also includes a collaboration with the casual brand DIESEL.

It’s the kind of song that will gently stay by your side on sleepless nights spent worrying about love or when you want to sort out your feelings.

dancerVaundy

[75th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen Performance Song] Odoriko / Vaundy: Music Video

This is a track released in November 2021 by Vaundy, a multi-artist who handles everything from songwriting and composing to visuals.

As Junji Ishiwatari described it, it embodies a “beauty of subtraction,” possessing a mysterious charm that captivates listeners with just simple rhythm and vocals.

The song depicts a bittersweet longing: dreaming of a future with someone who has drifted away, wishing for a chance to start over.

You can almost picture the protagonist’s helplessness.

The track is also included on the acclaimed album “replica.” Why not give it a listen on a night when you want to reminisce about a past love and indulge in a touch of sentimentality?

Love WindLila Ikuta

Lila Ikuta “Koikaze” Official Music Video

This piece was written as the theme song for ABEMA’s romance reality show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita: New Zealand Edition.” Created in April 2025 by Lila Ikuta, who is also active as the vocalist of the musical duo YOASOBI, it marks the third time she has provided a theme song for the series.

The song portrays someone hesitantly stepping forward—despite the confusion of falling in love and a timid heart shaped by past wounds—guided by sincere feelings.

Its fresh guitar sound, like the arrival of spring, gently embraces a wavering heart.

With Ikuta’s clear, translucent vocals that resonate deeply, it feels like the perfect number for the beginning of a new romance.

Pale BlueKenshi Yonezu

Kenshi Yonezu – Pale Blue / Kenshi Yonezu

Pale Blue is a song that resonates with those who have experienced a heart-tightening kind of love.

Released in 2021 by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu—also known for his work as Vocaloid producer Hachi—it was used as the theme song for the drama Rikokatsu.

The track features a classical sound centered on piano and strings, creating a grand atmosphere.

Its dramatic progression shifts from a Baroque style into a waltz rhythm.

Give this poignant love song a listen to feel the fragility and beauty of love.

absorbed; engrossed; infatuated; crazy aboutBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Muchuu -Recording Video- (Theme song for Fuji TV Thursday Drama 'Calm by the Waves, A Married Couple's Fine Day')

Many listeners are likely captivated by love songs that sing of straightforward, earnest romance, even if a little clumsy.

This track by BE:FIRST is exactly that kind of song.

Its gospel-tinged sound is soothing and warms the heart just by listening.

The song serves as the theme for the drama “Nami Uraraka ni, Meoto Biyori,” set in the Showa era and depicting the sweet, slightly bittersweet everyday life of a newlywed couple.

It portrays a deep affection that needs no words to be understood, and a tenderness so strong you want to call your partner’s name over and over—feelings many will relate to.

The song is included on the single “GRIT,” released in May 2025.

It’s a love song brimming with happiness that reminds you of how precious your loved one is.

MoonlightRen

Moonlight

ReN is a singer-songwriter with the unique background of being a former racing driver.

His love song “Moonlight” is a lyrical ballad that conjures scenes of thinking about someone dear on a quiet night.

The soft tones of the acoustic guitar and the layered vocals create a spatial ensemble that leaves a strong impression.

Looking at the lyrics, the message unfolds that even amid loneliness and silence, if you close your eyes, the smile of “you” that comes to mind is a light that illuminates the darkness.

It’s a message that resonates in the heart—that even when we’re apart, our hearts remain connected.