Rain Songs: A curated selection of tracks that feature rain in the lyrics — including many nostalgic Japanese hits

Rain is like a blanketKirinji

Kirinji – Rain Like a Blanket

While urban yet pastoral in spirit, Kirinji have carved out a genre all their own.

This track, too, showcases their distinctive style to the fullest.

Its melody, reminiscent of a gently falling rain, leaves you with the sensation of your ears being lightly moistened.

Released in June 2001, the song features the popular singer aiko on backing vocals, and the music video includes dancer Yui Kawaguchi.

Listen by the window on a rainy day, and even more evocative scenes will arise in your mind.

Light Blue RainJunko Yagami

Sky-blue Rain by Junko Yagami

Junko Yagami’s fifth single is a classic with a delicate, ephemeral atmosphere.

Its lyrics, which reminisce about a lost love, stir a range of emotions in listeners.

Characterized by her clear, crystalline high notes and a melody that is sorrowful yet warm, the song was released in September 1978 and became a major hit that marked a turning point in Yagami’s career.

It’s a track I highly recommend to anyone looking for music to play on rainy days or to those compiling a playlist that captures the feeling of Japan’s four seasons.

A midsummer passing showerHikaru Utada

Hikaru Utada – Midsummer Shower

A piano ballad by Hikaru Utada that resonates deeply with the heart.

It expresses sudden loss and profound sorrow through a melody that falls gently like rain.

The lyrics, imbued with feelings for her late mother, trace emotions toward a cherished presence now gone and move the listener’s heart.

Included on the album “Fantôme,” released in September 2016, it was also used as the theme song for Nippon TV’s NEWS ZERO.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on rainy days, one that offers comfort in the farewells and sense of loss everyone experiences.

Rainy Day WomanMiki Matsubara

Rainy Day Woman

A song released in 1980 by singer Miki Matsubara.

It’s a sultry city-pop track that depicts events on a rainy day.

In the first half, it recalls memories of spending a sunny summer day with a loved one; in the second half, it portrays saying goodbye to a lover on a rainy day.

This structure further highlights the melancholic mood of the rain.

Even in sadness, its message of self-affirmation really hits home, doesn’t it?

rainChisato Moritaka

Ame

A bittersweet love story spun by raindrops.

Chisato Moritaka’s translucent vocals beautifully capture both the pain of heartbreak and the glimmer of hope.

Released in September 1990 as her 11th single, the song is also included on the album “Kokon Tozai.” It gained popularity across Asia and has been covered by many artists.

Perfect for rainy days—and for times when your heart feels overcast—this track seeps into the soul.

Recommended for anyone who’s experienced heartbreak or wants a quiet moment of self-reflection.

In the night sky after the rainRC Succession

RC Succession – In the Night Sky After the Rain #1

An immortal masterpiece by RC Succession that vividly paints the night sky after the rain.

Its simple yet resonant melody stirs the listener’s emotions.

While colorfully expressing the sorrow of losing a beloved car, the lyrics are marked by a subtly sexy turn of phrase.

Released as a single in January 1980, this work became a turning point as the band shifted to a rock lineup.

Listen during the rainy season as you gaze out the window, and your heart will dance in sync with the rhythm played by the sound of the rain.

You are the rain.ohashiTrio

You are the rain.

It’s a ballad overflowing with emotion that could only come from Ohashi Trio, its jazzy, sophisticated piano tones resonating deep in the heart.

You can picture someone alone on a breakwater, looking up at the night sky while hiding their tears.

That helpless loneliness of longing for someone dear overlaps with the quietly falling rain, leaving you with a poignant ache.

The beautiful melody tightens your chest before you know it.

The track is included on the acclaimed album “I Got Rhythm?” released in November 2009, which reached No.

1 on the charts.

Later selected for his best-of compilation, it stands as one of his signature ballads.

On a quiet night when you want to sink into a sentimental mood, its gentle tones will surely stay close to your heart.