Masterpieces of poignant anime songs. Recommended popular tracks.

Lupin the Third Love ThemeIchiro Mizuki

Ichirō Mizuki - Lupin the Third Love Theme (LIVE)

It’s no exaggeration to call Lupin the Third one of Japan’s national anime.

Its theme and songs have been performed by countless musicians.

This time, we’re featuring “Lupin the Third: Love Theme” by Ichiro Mizuki, a heavyweight in the anime song world.

wrap (as in: wrap up filming)Ikusaburo Yamazaki

Ikusaburo Yamazaki – “Crank Up” Music Video (TV Anime “Out of Focus at Dusk” Opening Theme)

A delicate, wistful medium-tempo ballad that opens with the sound of a film camera.

Released digitally in July 2024, this song is used as the opening theme for the anime “Twilight Out of Focus.” Ikusaburo Yamazaki’s gentle vocals envelop the lingering melancholy of fleeting moments.

The lyrics, which use a film shoot’s wrap as a metaphor, poignantly portray parting and a sense of loss.

It’s a recommended listen when you want to bask in memories or when you’ve experienced a farewell to something or someone precious.

Surely, it will stay close to your heart.

GarnetHanako Oku

Hanako Oku / Garnet (Solo Acoustic Performance)

It’s a very famous song as the theme for the animated feature film The Girl Who Leapt Through Time.

It’s a moving piece loved by a wide audience.

Released in 2006 as Hanako Oku’s fourth single.

Hanako Oku’s voice is so captivating that just listening to it can bring tears to your eyes.

.

.

coarse sugarAimyon

Aimyon – Zarame [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

A work by Aimyon that sings of pain deeply lodged in the heart.

This piece was written specifically as the theme song for a suspense drama.

It’s striking in the way it faces one’s own emotions while still striving to look forward.

Included on the album “Jealousy of a Cat,” the song drew attention alongside the drama “May Lonely Deaths Pile Up,” which began airing in July 2024.

It’s recommended for those carrying heartache or those who want to confront themselves.

It might also be nice to listen alone on a quiet night.

Stars swimMacaroni Enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Hoshi ga Oyogu” MV

A gem of a ballad themed around the restlessness and transience of summer.

Released by Macaroni Empitsu in April 2022, it was written as the opening theme for the TV anime “Summer Time Rendering.” Its bittersweet lyrics and exhilarating sound leave a strong impression, depicting the sense of loss after losing someone precious and the struggle against fate.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on a summer night—perfect for times of heartbreak or parting from someone important.

As you listen, you’ll likely find yourself relating it to your own experiences.

Savor this masterpiece packed with everything that makes Macaroni Empitsu so compelling—you’re sure to be moved.

Message of RougeYumi Arai

Rouge's Message – Yumi Arai (Yumi Matsutoya) (Full)

Rouge no Dengon is a famous early song by Yumi Arai.

The song was used as a theme in Studio Ghibli’s smash-hit anime Kiki’s Delivery Service.

It’s a lively love song that makes you want to dance, but when you read the lyrics, the content is actually very heartbreaking.

My Neighbor TotoroAzumi Inoue

♪ My Neighbor Totoro / Azumi Inoue

Azumi Inoue’s “My Neighbor Totoro” is a song that is especially popular among young children.

It’s the theme song of the well-known Studio Ghibli hit anime “My Neighbor Totoro,” and it’s often heard being sung cheerfully by children at kindergartens and nursery schools.