11 Sad Japanese Songs: Japan’s Emotional Anthems

Hey there, music lovers! TBone here, your trusty guide through the vibrant world of music.

With over 20 years spinning decks and diving deep into the heart of melodies, I’ve developed a profound love for all genres, but there’s a special place in my heart for Japanese music.

Today, I’m excited to share with you a carefully curated list of 11 sad Japanese songs that have touched my soul. You might wonder, why focus on the sad tunes? Well, there’s something incredibly moving and cathartic about them.

They’re not just songs; they’re stories, emotions, and experiences wrapped in melodies.

Each song on this list has been chosen for its ability to convey deep emotions, its musical craftsmanship, and of course, its ability to resonate with both DJs and music lovers alike.

Whether you’re new to this genre or a seasoned listener, I promise there’s something here for everyone to appreciate. Let’s dive into the world of poignant melodies and heartfelt lyrics together.

Here are the sad Japanese songs that you can check out:

List Of Sad Japanese Songs

Sad Japanese songs in a list format:

Utada Hikaru – “First Love”

Album: First Love (1999)
Label: Toshiba EMI
Utada Hikaru’s “First Love” is a poignant ballad that has touched the hearts of many, not just in Japan but globally. Released in 1999 as part of her debut album of the same name, this song showcases Utada’s soulful voice and her knack for crafting deeply emotional lyrics. The album, produced under Toshiba EMI, became one of the best-selling albums in Japan. “First Love” speaks of the bittersweet feelings associated with a first love and the lingering memories after parting ways. The composition, coupled with Utada’s expressive delivery, makes it a timeless piece. I chose this song for its universal theme and Utada’s impactful performance, which, even after decades, continues to resonate with listeners. The arrangement, featuring piano and strings, complements Utada’s vocals perfectly, creating a melancholic atmosphere that’s hard to forget.

Kenshi Yonezu – “Lemon”

Album: BOOTLEG (2018)
Label: Sony Music
Kenshi Yonezu’s “Lemon” is a beautifully melancholic song that delves into themes of loss and memory. Released in 2018 as part of the album “BOOTLEG” under Sony Music, “Lemon” quickly became a hit, thanks to its poignant lyrics and Kenshi’s distinctive vocal style. The song is an homage to the memories of a loved one who has passed away, with the lemon symbolizing both the sweetness and bitterness of those memories. I appreciate “Lemon” for its lyrical depth and Kenshi’s ability to convey complex emotions through his music. The song’s minimalist arrangement allows his voice and the narrative to stand at the forefront, making it a deeply moving experience.

Aimer – “Kataomoi”

Album: Daydream (2016)
Label: SME Records
Aimer’s “Kataomoi” translates to unrequited love, a theme that’s as timeless as it is heart-wrenching. Featured on her 2016 album “Daydream” under SME Records, Aimer’s husky yet delicate voice perfectly captures the longing and melancholy of loving someone from afar. What draws me to “Kataomoi” is not just Aimer’s vocal prowess but the song’s beautiful composition, which blends classical and pop elements in a way that’s both innovative and deeply emotional. The orchestration supports Aimer’s voice in a way that amplifies the song’s impact, making it a standout track about the pains and beauty of unrequited love.

RADWIMPS – “Nandemonaiya”

Album: Your Name. (2016)
Label: Universal Music Japan
RADWIMPS’ “Nandemonaiya” is a heartwarming track from the critically acclaimed film “Your Name.” (2016). This song, part of the movie’s soundtrack released under Universal Music Japan, encapsulates the themes of love, longing, and connection across time and space. The band’s frontman, Yojiro Noda, delivers a powerful performance, blending emotion and narrative in a way that complements the film’s storyline. I chose this song for its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, as well as its significant contribution to the movie’s success. The arrangement, featuring piano and strings alongside the band’s rock sensibilities, creates a rich, emotive landscape that’s unforgettable.

Spitz – “Cherry”

Album: Hachimitsu (1995)
Label: Polydor
Spitz’s “Cherry” is a classic hit that has remained beloved in Japan since its release in 1995 on the album “Hachimitsu” under Polydor. This song, with its gentle melodies and heartfelt lyrics, speaks to the pain of separation and the enduring nature of love. I admire “Cherry” for its simplicity and the emotional depth it conveys through its straightforward arrangement. The lead singer Masamune Kusano has a unique voice that brings out the song’s nostalgic and melancholic qualities, making it a timeless piece about love and loss. The band’s approach to music, focusing on melody and emotion, makes “Cherry” a quintessential sad Japanese song.

YUI – “Good-bye Days”

Album: Can’t Buy My Love (2007)
Label: Sony Music Records
YUI’s “Good-bye Days,” from her 2007 album “Can’t Buy My Love,” is a touching ballad that captures the complexity of farewells and the hope for new beginnings. YUI’s ability to convey deep emotions through her singing and songwriting makes this track particularly special. The song gained further popularity as it was featured in the film “Taiyou no Uta,” where YUI herself played the lead role. What makes “Good-b

bye Days” stand out for me is its heartfelt lyrics and YUI’s sincere performance. The acoustic guitar-driven arrangement complements her voice beautifully, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. It’s a song that speaks directly to the heart, dealing with the pain of goodbye while also embracing the uncertainty and beauty of what lies ahead. YUI’s talent for crafting songs that resonate on a deeply personal level is evident here, making “Good-bye Days” a memorable and moving piece.

Sakanaction – “Yoru no Odoriko”

Album: DocumentaLy (2011)
Label: Victor Entertainment
Sakanaction’s “Yoru no Odoriko,” featured on their 2011 album “DocumentaLy” under Victor Entertainment, is an evocative track that blends electronic music with rock, creating a unique soundscape that’s both melancholic and captivating. The song title translates to “Night Dancer,” and it explores themes of isolation, longing, and the ephemeral nature of human connections. Ichiro Yamaguchi’s vocals, combined with the band’s innovative instrumentation, create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. I chose this song for its ability to merge different musical styles into a cohesive and deeply emotional narrative. Sakanaction has a gift for making music that’s not only thought-provoking but also deeply resonant on an emotional level, and “Yoru no Odoriko” is a prime example of their artistry.

Shiina Ringo – “Kabukicho no Joou”

Album: Muzai Moratorium (1999)
Label: Toshiba EMI
Shiina Ringo’s “Kabukicho no Joou” from her debut album “Muzai Moratorium” in 1999 is a song that captures the complex emotions and the dark underbelly of Tokyo’s nightlife. The title translates to “The Queen of Kabukicho,” with Kabukicho being a famous red-light district in Tokyo. Shiina Ringo’s distinctive voice and the song’s jazzy arrangement tell a story of longing, despair, and the search for identity amidst the city’s chaos. This track stands out for its narrative depth, musical sophistication, and Ringo’s unique vocal delivery. Her ability to blend different genres while maintaining a cohesive sound is remarkable, making “Kabukicho no Joou” a compelling listen that’s rich in emotion and atmosphere.

Ikimono-gakari – “Akaneiro no Yakusoku”

Album: My Song Your Song (2008)
Label: Epic Records Japan
Ikimono-gakari’s “Akaneiro no Yakusoku” is a heartfelt song that exudes a sense of nostalgia and warm memories. Featured on their 2008 album “My Song Your Song,” this track showcases the band’s ability to craft songs that resonate with a wide audience. The title translates to “The Madder Red Promise,” symbolizing the enduring bonds and promises shared between people. What draws me to this song is its uplifting melody contrasted with the bittersweet lyrics, creating a rich emotional tapestry. The vocal harmonies and acoustic instrumentation highlight Ikimono-gakari’s folk-pop sensibilities, making “Akaneiro no Yakusoku” a song that celebrates connections while acknowledging the sadness of inevitable partings.

Joe Hisaishi – “One Summer’s Day”

Album: Spirited Away Soundtrack (2001)
Label: Tokuma Japan Communications
Joe Hisaishi’s “One Summer’s Day” from the soundtrack of the acclaimed film “Spirited Away” (2001) is an instrumental masterpiece that evokes a deep sense of longing and wonder. Hisaishi, renowned for his collaborations with filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki, has a gift for creating music that captures the essence of the film’s narrative. This piece, with its gentle piano melodies and lush orchestration, transports listeners to a world of magical realism. I chose this song for its ability to convey emotion and storytelling without words, showcasing Hisaishi’s unparalleled talent in composing music that complements visual storytelling in a profound way.

GReeeeN – “Kiseki”

Album: A, Domo. Ohisashiburi Desu. (2008)
Label: Universal Music Japan
GReeeeN’s “Kiseki” is an uplifting song that became an anthem of hope and dreams for many upon its release in 2008. Featured on the album “A, Domo. Ohisashiburi Desu.” under Universal Music Japan, “Kiseki” translates to “Miracle,” aptly capturing the song’s message of believing in one’s dreams despite the challenges. The group’s harmonious vocals and the song’s catchy melody create an infectious energy that’s both inspiring and moving. I admire “Kiseki” for its positive message and GReeeeN’s ability to connect with listeners through their music. The song’s blend of pop and rock elements, combined with its heartfelt lyrics, makes it a powerful piece that transcends language barriers. The story behind “Kiseki” – one of perseverance, love, and the miracles that can arise from believing in oneself and others – resonates deeply with me. GReeeeN has a unique way of conveying universal themes through their music, and “Kiseki” exemplifies their skill in creating songs that uplift and inspire. Its enduring popularity in Japan and beyond is a testament to the song’s impact and the band’s talent for crafting memorable, emotive music.

Fun Facts: Sad Japanese Songs

Utada Hikaru – “First Love”

• Fact: “First Love” remains one of the best-selling Japanese albums to date, showcasing Utada Hikaru’s impact on the J-pop scene from a very young age. Interestingly, Utada was only 16 years old when she recorded this album, demonstrating her early talent in music composition and performance.

Kenshi Yonezu – “Lemon”

• Fact: The music video for “Lemon” has garnered significant attention on YouTube, accumulating hundreds of millions of views. This not only highlights Kenshi Yonezu’s popularity but also the song’s widespread appeal. “Lemon” is often used in various TV dramas and ceremonies in Japan, further cementing its status in popular culture.

Aimer – “Kataomoi”

• Fact: Aimer’s unique husky voice is the result of her losing her voice due to an accident. This incident, rather than hindering her, actually contributed to her distinctive vocal style, which has become one of her trademarks and a beloved characteristic among fans.

RADWIMPS – “Nandemonaiya”

• Fact: “Nandemonaiya” is part of the soundtrack for the anime film “Your Name.”, which achieved massive success both domestically and internationally. The film’s director, Makoto Shinkai, has praised RADWIMPS for their contribution to the movie, stating that their music played a crucial role in bringing the film’s emotional landscape to life.

Spitz – “Cherry”

• Fact: Despite its release over two decades ago, “Cherry” continues to be a karaoke favorite in Japan. Its timeless appeal is such that it is often covered by younger artists and featured in TV shows and commercials, demonstrating its enduring legacy in the Japanese music scene.

YUI – “Good-bye Days”

• Fact: YUI not only performed “Good-bye Days” for the soundtrack of “Taiyou no Uta” but also starred as the lead actress in the movie, showcasing her versatile talents as both a musician and an actress. The song’s emotional depth is said to be inspired by her experience working on the film.

Sakanaction – “Yoru no Odoriko”

• Fact: Sakanaction is known for their innovative music videos, and “Yoru no Odoriko” is no exception. The song’s video features a unique blend of dance and visual effects, which has been highly praised for its artistic creativity and has won several awards.

Shiina Ringo – “Kabukicho no Joou”

• Fact: Shiina Ringo is known for her eclectic style and has been a significant influence on the Japanese music industry. “Kabukicho no Joou” showcases her ability to blend different musical genres, including jazz and rock, creating a sound that is distinctly her own.

Ikimono-gakari – “Akaneiro no Yakusoku”

• Fact: Ikimono-gakari’s members were actually classmates in elementary school, and they formed the band many years later. “Akaneiro no Yakusoku” is a testament to their long-standing friendship and shared journey in music, adding a layer of depth to the song’s themes of bonds and promises.

Joe Hisaishi – “One Summer’s Day”

• Fact: Joe Hisaishi has been a long-time collaborator with Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki, composing for many of their films. “One Summer’s Day” is one of his most iconic pieces, often performed in concerts around the world, showcasing the global appeal of his music beyond the films themselves.

GReeeeN – “Kiseki”

• Fact: The members of GReeeeN are all dentists and have managed to keep their identities secret, never showing their faces in public or in their music videos. “Kiseki” was used as the theme song for the baseball manga and anime series “Major,” contributing to its popularity and connection with themes of perseverance and achieving one’s dreams.

Exploring the depths of sadness and beauty through Japanese music reveals a world of emotion and storytelling. Each song offers a unique journey, inviting us to connect, reflect, and find solace in their melodies. Join us in celebrating these masterpieces and the stories they tell.

Thanks for reading.

TBone