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[Moon Songs Special] Famous songs about the moon. Songs you’ll want to listen to under a full moon or in the moonlight.

As exemplified by Princess Kaguya, the moon has captivated countless people since ancient times as a symbol of mystery alongside the sun.

Not only full moons and crescents, but also rare events like lunar eclipses and supermoons are widely cherished.

Here, we introduce a variety of classic songs related to the moon.

From karaoke staples and moon-themed songs by popular artists to hidden gems that aren’t widely known, we’ve picked a range for anyone who wants to discover “all kinds of moon songs.” Be sure to check them out.

You’re sure to encounter beautiful, captivating pieces that will steal your heart.

Moon Song Special: Timeless songs about the moon. Tracks to enjoy under a full moon or moonlight (71–80)

Full-moon nightSeikima-II

Although Seikima-II is often associated with flashy colors in makeup and fashion, they are in fact a highly skilled hard rock band with exceptional musicianship.

In Seikima-II’s worldview, the “moon” evokes a full moon that drives people mad.

This track is a slow, groovy number with a mysterious allure, reminiscent of such a full moon.

Let's meet on the far side of the moon.ORIGINAL LOVE

ORIGINAL LOVE - Let's Meet on the Dark Side of the Moon
Let's meet on the far side of the moon ORIGINAL LOVE

Speaking of early masterpieces by ORIGINAL LOVE released in 1991, “Tsuki no Ura de Aimashou” (Let’s Meet on the Far Side of the Moon) comes to mind.

It was written as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “BANANA CHIPS LOVE.” Unlike many moon-themed songs that carry a melancholic image, this one is unusual—a lively track with a distinctly Shibuya-kei vibe and an upbeat rhythm that’s a joy to listen to.

Beyond the single version, it’s been re-recorded multiple times, including an album version and a rendition featuring only piano accompaniment and vocals.

It’s a classic that’s also been covered by Maki Nomiya of Pizzicato Five and by Hitomi Shimatani, so definitely give it a listen!

Crescent Moon and the Red BridgeYuki Isozawa

Yuki Isokawa “Crescent Moon and the Red Bridge” MUSIC VIDEO
Crescent Moon and the Red Bridge by Yukii Isokawa

This is a song by Yuki Isogawa that is said to have been conceived for over a year, inspired when composer Chiaki Oka was captivated by a fantastical scene he saw at a hot spring inn in Saga: a “red bridge under the moon.” A crescent moon drifting quietly across the night sky, and a red bridge casting its shadow on the water’s surface.

Overlaying the fleeting beauty of their intersection with a man and woman meeting for a single night, the piece portrays the transience and ache of love.

Yuki Isogawa’s sweet, sultry voice, rich with vibrato, vividly brings the story’s scenery to life.

Released as a single in September 2024, it is said to be one of the works commemorating her 15th anniversary.

On a night when your thoughts turn to an unattainable love, why not gently entrust your heart to this song, with its beautiful images that rise before your eyes?

Crescent Moon BluesChiyoko Shimakura

This is a classic enka song by Chiyoko Shimakura that gently overlays the pathos and solitude of life onto a crescent moon floating in the night sky.

While Shimakura is also known for “Jinsei Iroiro,” in this piece she tenderly sings of the heartrending feelings of a woman who endures in silence.

With lyrics by Tetsurō Hoshino and composition by Tetsuya Gen, the quintessential melody and her dignified voice—which doesn’t end in mere sadness—resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in February 2000, it was also performed on an NHK music program in September of the same year.

Those who have weathered many of life’s events may find a different flavor of appreciation when they listen.

Crescent Moon Love StoryIshihara Junko

Junko Ishihara “Mikazuki Jōwa” F
Mikazuki Love Story — Junko Ishihara

This is a song by Junko Ishihara, sung with a velvety voice honed through shigin, richly conveying a heartrending love story.

A promise made under a crescent moon and the parting that eventually follows.

Images like a night train and the ebbing tide come vividly to mind, and the protagonist’s helpless lingering attachment is almost painfully palpable.

With lyrics by Fumiko Okada and composition by Makoto Kawaguchi—both masters of the enka world—the song was released in September 1994 and went on to win the Excellence Award at the 27th Japan Lyrics Award the following year.

It’s a piece anyone with an unforgettable memory of love can relate to.

On a quiet night, if you listen closely, the memories of that time may come flooding back in vivid color.

The Moon and the SunKetsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “Moon and Sun” Short Ver. (starring KENTO MORI and MINT crew)
Moon and Sun by Ketsumeishi

Ketsumeishi is a veteran hip-hop group formed in 1993.

This song is their 25th single, released in 2013.

While the sun and moon are used as key words, the lyrics sing about the “moon” as a precious presence that shines when illuminated by light.

Morning MoonCHAGE and ASKA

CHAGE and ASKA – Morning Moon
Morning Moon CHAGE and ASKA

Morning Moon by CHAGE and ASKA, one of Japan’s leading music duos.

The distinctive chord progression in the B section and the rising minor-key bass line in the chorus are stunningly cool.

Combined with the driving feel of the synthesizers, the sense of poignancy is overwhelming.

ASKA’s unique, almost fierce vocal delivery and CHAGE’s overlapping harmonies create an alluring, bewitching effect.

I mean, it’s just an incredible song.