Japanese music offers a wide range of styles, from energetic and catchy tunes to songs that quietly soothe the soul and accompany moments of peace. These calming tracks, often referred to as “Chill Music,” add a new layer of charm to Japanese music by helping us unwind amidst the busyness of everyday life.
In this article, I’ll introduce a selection of Japanese songs that evoke a sense of calm and healing under the theme of “Chill Music Japan.” These picks are based on my personal taste, so they might lean a bit toward my own preferences—but isn’t that the subjective enjoyment that is the true beauty of music? I hope you’ll explore and enjoy them from your unique perspective as well.
At the end of the article, you’ll find a Spotify playlist featuring the songs introduced here. Feel free to listen and let it accompany your favorite moments.
Haruomi Hosono: “Bara to Yajuu – New ver.”
“Bara to Yajuu” (Rose and Beast) was originally featured on Haruomi Hosono’s first album, “HOSONO HOUSE”, released in 1973. Decades later, in March 2019, the song was re-recorded and reimagined for the album “HOCHONO HOUSE”, offering a fresh, modern interpretation. This album serves as a complete re-recording of the original “HOSONO HOUSE” with a contemporary twist.
Interviews about the making of HOCHONO HOUSE also provide fascinating insights. One surprising anecdote reveals that Hosono drew inspiration during production from artists such as Morning Musume, Ed Sheeran, and Taylor Swift. It’s both unexpected and impressive to see him engaging with contemporary music, reflecting his ever-curious and exploratory approach to sound.
Above all, I truly love his singing voice. Compared to the original version, his vocal delivery and tone have changed significantly, but this evolution reflects the profound depth of expression he has cultivated over nearly 50 years. Each note feels as though it carries the weight of time, and with every listen, it resonates deeply within my heart.
Izumi Makura: “Inochi feat. Lovely Summer-chan”
※The title “Inochi” means “life” in English.
I absolutely love Izumi Makura’s rap style. While powerful and piercing words have their own allure, her soft and rounded Japanese rap in this song reveals a new dimension of her artistry. It’s as if she delicately captures fleeting moments of everyday life—small conversations with someone, words glimpsed along the roadside—and these fragments of daily existence gently dissolve into her lyrics. The result is a tranquil, comforting atmosphere that feels like a warm embrace.
At first glance, the lyrics may seem inspired by ordinary scenes, but at their core lies a strong theme of “living.” This song conveys a message of embracing all the days you’ve lived through and walking boldly into the future. It’s a testament to resilience and self-acceptance, wrapped in gentle melodies.
Lovely Summer-chan’s vocals add even more charm to this track. Her soft, light voice complements Izumi Makura’s rap perfectly, creating a soothing harmony that elevates the song’s warmth and depth. Together, they craft a piece that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.
HOTEL DONUTS: “Convenience Boy” / TOSHIKI HAYASHI (%C) × maco marets × Satomoka × Daisuke Yamada
Centered around Satomoka’s sweet and tender rap vocals, “Convenience Boy” is an impressive track where male and female raps alternate in a calming, conversational style. This understated delivery becomes one of the song’s most captivating features, creating a uniquely pleasant listening experience.
The song forms a pair with “Insomnia Girl,” both featured on the same EP. While neither track portrays a particularly happy relationship, they explore the fragile mental state of navigating between reassurance and anxiety, telling oneself, “Maybe this is okay.” This emotional complexity resonates deeply with listeners, inviting both empathy and introspection.
Within this narrative, one can’t help but ponder questions like, “Isn’t there something unspeakable in every relationship?” or “If we could express everything we feel, would love still exist?” Yet, beyond these reflective musings, Satomoka and the ensemble’s soothing voices and melodies wrap the listener in a warm, comforting embrace, transcending the uncertainties of love.
Shintaro Sakamoto: “Tsubame no Kisetsu ni”
“Tsubame no Kisetsu ni” translates to “By Swallow Season.” Released in December 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, this song captures the mix of uncertainty and anticipation many people felt at the time, wondering, “What kind of future awaits us?” However, its melody carries no sense of darkness—instead, it’s light, refreshing, and comforting. Personally, I’m one of those who find solace in listening to this song regularly.
For context, swallows are migratory birds that travel from Southeast Asia to Japan in spring and return to warmer southern countries in autumn. Their seasonal journeys symbolize renewal and the cycle of life, adding a layer of depth to the song’s imagery.
Interestingly, I first encountered this track after the pandemic had passed. As a result, I didn’t perceive it solely as a reflection of that time but rather as an expression of the anticipation that comes with the seasonal change—waiting for spring, when swallows return to Japan after winter. This sentiment feels universal, transcending time and circumstances, resonating with anyone who has experienced a quiet yearning for what’s to come.
In that sense, the song isn’t confined to a specific era or situation. It feels more like a celebration of everyday life and the subtle mix of emotions that accompany the changing seasons—the small but profound expectations and the faint, lingering sense of unease. It beautifully captures these fleeting yet deeply human moments.
Hitsuji Bungaku: “Shirakawa Yofune”
This song was inspired by the Japanese film “Shirakawa Yofune” (Asleep), directed by Shingo Wakagi in 2015. The film is based on a novel by Banana Yoshimoto, originally published in 1989. With sleep as its central theme, the movie features a sound design so quiet and immersive that you might feel like dozing off alongside the protagonist while watching it in a dark theater. Instead of a traditional soundtrack, the film relies on ambient sounds—clothes rustling, a washing machine spinning, or the distant hum of a train. Subtle visuals like soft light filtering through lace curtains, the dim glow of a bedside lamp, or the peculiar feeling of waking up on a lazy afternoon captures a dreamy, melancholic atmosphere. This essence seems to be woven into the song’s mood.
The lyrics evoke the lethargy of a youthful day off—thinking of someone special, unable to resist the pull of sleep, yet still feeling the pangs of hunger. The understated acoustic guitar accompaniment feels perfectly attuned to this languid vibe, adding depth to the song’s nostalgic tone.
If you’re curious to learn more about the inspiration behind the track, an interview on THE FIRST TIMES delves into its background—definitely worth checking out!
Ozora Kimishima & Moeka Shiozuka: “Circus Night”
Here’s another connection to Hitsuji Bungaku. “Circus Night” was originally released by Tabito Nanao in 2012, and later, Ozora Kimishima covered it, featuring Moeka Shiozuka from Hitsuji Bungaku as the vocalist. The two also performed together on “THE FIRST TAKE“, a popular Japanese YouTube channel known for its one-take live performances, suggesting a close relationship. Their connection dates back to their teenage years, when Kimishima attended a Hitsuji Bungaku performance during high school, sparking a long-standing friendship.
Listening to this track feels like being drawn into a circus tent, with an enchanting and extraordinary atmosphere unfolding around you. The song creates a vivid sense of an otherworldly space, allowing the unique emotions within the music to come to life before your eyes.
The lyrics, comparing love to a tightrope act at a circus, evoke a sense of wandering in the liminal space between dreams and reality. In fact, they even hint at a desire to keep wandering indefinitely. This song’s distinctive magic lingers in the listener’s heart, no matter how many times it’s heard.
SEKAI NO OWARI: “Kagerou” (Heat Haze)
This song has two distinct versions. One is a cover performed by the band’s frontman, Fukase, and the other is the original version, written, composed, and sung by Saori, the band’s pianist. Both versions are captivating in their own right, but here, I’ll focus on the original.
The song first appeared on the album “Scent of Memory”, released in March 2022, with Saori providing the vocals. Later, in June 2022, Fukase’s cover version was included as the third track on the single “Habit”. Each rendition carries its unique charm, showcasing different interpretations of the same piece.
Fukase’s comments about the song in an interview with “Rockin’ On Japan” magazine left a lasting impression on me. Although the interview was over two years ago and my memory may be hazy, I recall him expressing how much he loved the song and how he’d always wanted to cover it with his own vocals. He mentioned that, as a seasoned vocalist, he approached the recording with the intent to surpass the original, though he admitted feeling the difficulty of capturing the song’s unique, delicate essence. His words conveyed profound respect for the original version and its fleeting, irreplaceable charm.
Indeed, Saori’s original version possesses a rare fragility, with a restrained yet deeply resonant vocal delivery that captivates listeners. The fact that she sings the words she herself created lends an authenticity and naturalness to the performance, making it all the more compelling.
Hiroshi Fujiwara – Time Machine
The more you learn about Hiroshi Fujiwara, the harder it becomes to define his title. Is he a designer? A musician? His multifaceted talents and the effortlessly cool sound of his music make him a true pioneer of a boundaryless lifestyle. He’s an icon who embodies the idea of living outside traditional labels and frameworks.
When Fujiwara collaborated with Bulgari to create a product line, he left a memorable comment:
“Fashion should be more distorted. Just wear what you want to wear. Uniqlo is the ultimate lifestyle brand, but it’s not a fashion brand.”
These words offer a glimpse into his philosophy, his values, and what he finds truly cool.
If you want to delve deeper into his unique sensibilities, his track Time Machine is a great place to start. It feels like a window into the world of Hiroshi Fujiwara—a piece that lets you experience a slice of his personality and artistry.
By the way, as I’m writing this, everything I’m wearing except my Kaepa tracksuit is from Uniqlo. Being a fan of Uniqlo and a fan of Hiroshi Fujiwara? Totally compatible.
Chilli Beans. – I like you
The song “I like you” is the closing track of Chilli Beans.’ 2023 album Welcome to My Castle. True to its title, the album was crafted to draw listeners into a unique world the band built. It feels as if they’re saying, “We’ve built a castle here. Please, enjoy yourself to the fullest inside.”
The album’s opening track makes a striking impression with the sound of a heavy castle door opening and closing. It’s almost as if it’s sending the message, “Get ready to immerse yourself in this world—there’s no leaving midway.” And to end this conceptual journey, they chose “I like you” as the final song.
This track is characterized by a dreamy, soft sound that feels like floating within a dream, paired with lyrics that evoke the sensation of waking up from one. According to the band members, “I like you” carries the sentiment that while the castle may disappear at the end of the song, it’s always a place listeners can return to. It’s the perfect choice to close out the album.
Personally, I first discovered this song as the ending theme for the drama “Toki o Kakeru na, Koibito-tachi” (Don’t Leap Through Time, Lovers). Starring Riho Yoshioka and Eita Nagayama, this sci-fi comedy stands out with its unique charm. The inclusion of “I like you” as the ending song brought a sense of calm and closure to the story, leaving me with a peaceful, satisfied feeling.
Sakura Fujiwara – Itsuka Mita Eiga Mitai ni (Like a Movie I Once Saw)
This track, starting with Sakura Fujiwara’s gentle humming, perfectly captures a chill and soothing vibe. From the very first note, it envelops you in a comforting atmosphere, evoking a sense of calm and ease that makes your shoulders relax. Every listen leaves you with a serene, refreshed feeling.
The song is part of the album AIRPORT, which was created by collaborating with track makers who produced the music first, followed by Fujiwara adding her lyrics. Notably, the track was produced by VaVa, a music producer known for his work in hip-hop. The scratch effects and the overall hip-hop influence give the album a distinctive sound. Yet, Fujiwara’s laid-back and mellow vocals soften the edges, offering a unique charm that feels both loose and relaxing.
The lyrics center around a simple yet poignant theme: “Life doesn’t work out like in the movies, does it?” It reflects the messy, unresolved feelings we often wrestle with—how emotions can hold us back, making it hard to cut ties cleanly or move forward decisively. Even so, the song exudes a refreshing sense of acceptance, as if to say, “Well, that’s life—it is what it is.” This balance of realism and optimism gives the track an understated but uplifting quality.
Kai Kubota – Haru ni Binetsu (Spring Fever)
Kai Kubota has made a name for himself with impressive performances in rap battles, solidifying his undeniable talent. His lyrics skillfully weave together rhymes that are as pleasing to the ear as they are effortless. Without flaunting his technique, Kubota seems to enjoy playing with words in a natural, unpretentious way. His focus on vivid imagery draws listeners seamlessly into the world of his songs.
In this particular track, the story unfolds around a protagonist who experiences a feverish love under the warm spring sunlight. The smile of a loved one, reminiscent of a gentle spring day, carries the protagonist to a world slightly removed from reality—almost like being on another planet. The lyrics beautifully convey the strange and unfamiliar emotions that feel akin to catching a cold, a metaphor for the unfamiliar sensations of love.
While the imagery may feel dreamlike, reminiscent of a romantic movie scene, it also resonates with the genuine, fleeting feelings many have experienced. It’s a song that makes you long for the arrival of spring—a track that’s as tender and refreshing as the season itself.
Salyu × haruka nakamura – Hoshi no Kuzu α (Stardust α)
Hoshi no Kuzu has two versions: α (Alpha) and Ω (Omega). The Alpha version symbolizes “beginning” as the first letter of the Greek alphabet and features a pop-inspired, approachable arrangement that beautifully conveys the emotions woven through Salyu’s vocals. In contrast, the Omega version represents “ending” and highlights haruka nakamura’s musical worldview with a quieter, more profound composition. For this article, we’ll focus on the Alpha version, which balances accessibility with hidden depth.
This song serves as the ending theme for the anime TRIGUN STAMPEDE. While the short version used in the anime is stunning, it feels too brief to fully convey the song’s richness. Unusually long for contemporary music at over five minutes, the full track immerses listeners in its deep and expansive world.
As someone who occasionally finds overly positive lyrics a bit heavy, this song holds a special place for me. Its gentle and tender words light a subtle glow in the heart, reminding me of quiet positivity. Salyu’s vocal expression, capturing the song’s nuanced emotions so masterfully, leaves me utterly in awe. Hoshi no Kuzu α is a rare gem that resonates both emotionally and musically.
Ichiyanagi – Kitto (Surely)
I first encountered this song during an NHK radio program called Ato wa Neru Dake no Jikan (The Time Before Sleeping), where one of the hosts, Naoki Matayoshi, selected and played it. Matayoshi is a multifaceted talent—not only a comedian but also a recipient of the Akutagawa Prize, Japan’s most prestigious literary award for new authors. His impeccable taste in music has added variety to my playlist, and I’m deeply grateful for his influence.
One of the most striking aspects of this song is the voice. It feels both intimate, as if someone is speaking softly by your side, and distant, as if echoing from the border between dreams and reality—a uniquely captivating quality. In an interview, Ichiyanagi mentioned that he intentionally keeps music at a “perfect distance” from daily life, neither too close nor too far. He views music as a form of refuge or a secure base—a concept that resonates deeply with me.
There are moments when we find ourselves weighed down by the pressures of reality or dissatisfaction with the world. In such times, we might wonder, “What’s the point of art or entertainment?” Yet, I believe art and entertainment have a quiet power to remind us, “The world you see is not all there is.” Listening to Ichiyanagi’s music reaffirms this truth, offering both solace and perspective.
Hakushi Hasegawa – Sea Change
This song is a stunningly delicate piece, composed solely of piano melodies, vocals, and the audible sound of breaths being drawn. Hakushi Hasegawa is often associated with high-energy tracks featuring ultra-fast BPM, intricate rhythms, and an overwhelming density of sounds. However, Sea Change showcases his ability to create serene and intimate music, highlighting the remarkable breadth of his artistry. It’s hard not to feel a growing sense of anticipation for what he will create next.
On Spotify, his most-streamed track is Doku (Poison), which starkly contrasts with the tranquility of Sea Change. Listening to these two songs side by side, you’d hardly believe they come from the same artist. This striking contrast underscores the multifaceted nature of his music. If you ever find yourself tired of a quiet day at home, perhaps it’s time to inject some Doku into your playlist and head out for an adventure.
Enjoy These Japanese Songs on Spotify
Thank you for exploring these handpicked “chill Japanese songs” with me! Each track offers a unique way to unwind, whether it’s a quiet moment at home or a peaceful evening stroll. To make it easy for you to enjoy them all, I’ve created a Spotify playlist featuring every song mentioned in this article.
Feel free to add it to your own collection and discover the calming charm of Japanese music. Let these tracks bring a sense of relaxation and inspiration to your day. Happy listening!
Comment