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"Renai Circulation"
Digital release cover
Song by Nadeko Sengoku (Kana Hanazawa)
from the album Bakemonogatari Ongaku Zenshū Songs & Soundtracks
ReleasedJanuary 27, 2010 (2010-01-27)
Recorded2009
Genre
Length4:16
LabelAniplex
SongwriterSatoru Kōsaki
LyricistMeg Rock
ProducerSatoru Kōsaki
Music video
"Renai Circulation" on YouTube

"Renai Circulation" (Japanese: 恋愛サーキュレーション, Hepburn: Ren'ai Sākyurēshon; lit. "Love Circulation") is a song from the 2009 Japanese anime television series Bakemonogatari (the animated adaptation of the first book from the Monogatari series by Nisio Isin) and performed by Kana Hanazawa as her character, Nadeko Sengoku. Composed by Satoru Kōsaki with lyrics written by Meg Rock, "Renai Circulation" serves as both Nadeko's character image song as well as the opening theme song in episode 10 of Bakemonogatari, which first premiered on September 11, 2009, to represent the "Nadeko Snake" story arc.

"Renai Circulation" was released on digital services and as a limited edition CD bonus with vol. 4 of the DVD and Blu-ray home releases of Bakemonogatari on January 27, 2010. It was later given a wider physical release and compiled on the series' soundtrack album, Bakemonogatari Ongaku Zenshū Songs & Soundtracks [ja] on December 21, 2011.

"Renai Circulation" received praise for its "cute" melody as well as Hanazawa's vocals. After the initial release of "Renai Circulation", in 2010, the song inspired a trend of cover dances and mash-ups on Niconico. In the late 2010s, the popularity of the song resurfaced again, this time globally, through TikTok.

Background and release

[edit]
Kana Hanazawa (pictured in 2010), the voice actress of Nadeko Sengoku, performed "Renai Circulation."

"Renai Circulation" is a song from the 2009 anime series Bakemonogatari (the animated adaptation of the first book in the Monogatari series by Nisio Isin) and serves as the character image song for the character Nadeko Sengoku.[1][2] It first appeared as the opening theme song of episode 10, "Nadeko Snake, Part 2",[1][a] which was originally broadcast on September 11, 2009 on Tokyo MX,[5] to coincide with "Nadeko Snake", a story arc featuring Nadeko as the main character.[3] The vocals were performed by Nadeko's voice actress, Kana Hanazawa.[1]

"Renai Circulation" was given a limited physical release as a CD bonus in vol. 4 of the DVD and Blu-ray limited edition home releases of Bakemonogatari.[6] The home releases were originally scheduled to be on sale on December 29, 2009,[7] but they were postponed until finally releasing on January 27, 2010.[6] "Renai Circulation" was also released on digital services on the same day.[8] On December 21, 2011, "Renai Circulation" saw a wider physical release on the soundtrack album Bakemonogatari Ongaku Zenshū Songs & Soundtracks [ja].[9]

Composition and lyrics

[edit]

"Renai Circulation" is composed by Satoru Kōsaki with lyrics written by Meg Rock.[1] Kōsaki felt it would be interesting to feature Hanazawa rapping in a gentle manner, inspired by Shibuya-kei music and Japanese hip-hop artist Kaseki Cider.[10] Similar to Hanazawa's song "Melody", "Renai Circulation" is focused on a narrative with rap elements against a "funky tune."[11] J-Cast [ja] described the song as a "light pop tune" that makes use of Hanazawa's vocals.[1] Anime News Network described the song as a "starry-eyed love song" that reveals Nadeko's "conflict and character."[4] Kai-You described the lyrics as depicting Nadeko's feelings for the main character of the Monogatari series, Koyomi Araragi, with Hanazawa portraying Nadeko's "maiden heart" with a "clear, whisper vocal" against a light brass section, single-note guitar, and a glockenspiel.[12] The chorus opens with the Japanese onomatopoeia fuwa-fuwari (ふわふわり), which means "fluffy" and is used to describe "cute, upbeat, or insubstantial things."[4] The song also contains a wordplay about Nadeko's name and yamato nadeshiko in the line "I will try without the 'shi' — I mean, I will try if it would cost my life!" (「し」抜きで いや 死ぬ気で！, "shi" nuki de, iya, shinuki de!)[3]

Since the release of "Renai Circulation", Nadeko's subsequent character songs have made references to the former. "Mousou Express" was released for the 2013 anime series Monogatari: Second Season, which adapted Otorimonogatari and was used as the opening theme song to the "Nadeko Medusa" story arc.[12] The song depicted Nadeko's descent into madness about her unrequited feelings for Koyomi Araragi and was seen as a response to "Renai Circulation."[12] "Caramel Ribbon Cursetard", a duet between Nadeko and Yotsugi Ononoki (voiced by Saori Hayami) released for the 2024 anime adaptation of Nademonogatari, is also presented with rapping verses, with the lyrics having Nadeko face her past self in "Renai Circulation" and "Mousou Express."[12]

Reception

[edit]

Famitsu stated that "Renai Circulation" suited Nadeko's cute image "perfectly."[3] They also describe Hanazawa to have an "airy" and "cute" singing voice that they found "charming."[3] Anime News Network described the song as "cutesy as all get-out" and that it framed Nadeko as "cute and dramatically vacuous", making her a cliché moe character.[13] Kai You stated that the rapping in the song was not skilled compared to hip hop songs, but it benefited in making the song "cute" due to how it portrayed Nadeko's clumsy character.[12] In 2019, "Renai Circulation" won the Character Song Award at the Heisei Anisong Grand Prix for the decade of 2000 to 2009.[14]

Live performances

[edit]

In 2015, Hanazawa performed "Renai Circulation" as an encore song for her "Live 2015 Blue Avenue" concert tour.[15] After "Renai Circulation" went viral on TikTok in China, Hanazawa was invited to perform the song as a special guest at the 2019 BTV Universal New Year's Eve Snow and Ice Song Festival in Beijing, China.[16][17][18] She later performed the song again in 2019 during a concert in Shanghai.[17] In May, Hanazawa performed the song at Monogatari Fes: 10th Anniversary Story, a talk event celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the Monogatari anime adaptation.[19]

In 2022, Hanazawa performed "Renai Circulation" on her "Live 2022 Blossom" concert tour.[20] She also performed it at Animelo Summer Live 2022.[21] In October, Hanazawa performed the song at the Dream Entertainment Live, an event celebrating the 55th anniversary of All Night Nippon.[22] In 2023, she performed the song at the Tencent Music Entertainment Awards as part of a medley of her other anime songs.[23]

Cultural impact

[edit]

After the song's initial release, in 2010, "Renai Circulation" became popular among anime fans, inspiring cover dances with original choreography and song mash-ups on Niconico.[1] Nadeko won first place in a Bakemonogatari character poll held by anime merchandise retailer Toranoana, with some voters citing "Renai Circulation" as the reason.[24] In 2022, Hanazawa stated that the success of "Renai Circulation" led her to receiving more offers to perform character songs as well as a singing career.[25] She also stated that the song has helped her "get to know [her] voice."[21]

In 2018, "Renai Circulation" went viral on TikTok in China.[17] On December 18, 2019, Chinese electronics company Xiaomi posted a parody version of the song video on Bilibili about their Q3 financial report using processed voice clips from their CEO, Lei Jun.[1][26] In 2021, "Renai Circulation" spread outside of Asia on TikTok as well through a 2012 English-language cover version by American singer Lizz Robinett.[1] Robinett's version inspired cover dances on the app and became an Internet meme.[27] Her version of the song also saw popularity with Japanese users who were unfamiliar with the song.[1][28] "Renai Circulation" was described by Natalie as an example of a J-pop song finding a global audience.[29]

The song "Tokyo Mauve" by Polkadot Stingray was inspired by Hanazawa, with the composition resembling "Renai Circulation."[30] In 2022, "Renai Circulation" was used as an ending theme song to the child-rearing program Sukusuku Ko Sodate [ja] on NHK Educational TV.[3]

Cover versions

[edit]

In 2010, Japanese singer Mai Kotone [ja] recorded a cover version for Anime Dance Best Gig, a compilation album featuring covers of popular anime songs.[31] Kotone also performed the song during a concert celebrating her 24th birthday in 2014.[32] In 2012, American singer Lizz Robinett recorded an English-language cover,[1] which later spread outside of Asia on TikTok.[27] Robinett's version ranked no. 1 in the Billboard Japan TikTok Weekly Top 20 in the week of March 22, 2021.[27] In 2013, Japanese singer Nagi Yanagi recorded a cover version as a first press bonus for her album Euaru.[33] In 2020, a Chinese-language cover version was recorded and performed on the reality competition program Youth With You.[1] In 2022, a cover version performed by Hotaru Shiragiku (voiced by Satomi Amano) became available as a playable song in the mobile game The Idolmaster Cinderella Girls: Starlight Stage.[34] The Resonanz Children's Choir performed the song live with the Jakarta Concert Orchestra, during an Anime Symphony concert.[35] In 2025, a cover version performed by Pastel Palettes became available as a playable song in the mobile game BanG Dream! Girls Band Party!.[36][better source needed]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Renai Circulation

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Renai Circulation (恋愛サーキュレーション, Ren'ai Sākyureshon, lit. "Love Circulation") is a Japanese song performed by voice actress and singer in her role as the character Nadeko Sengoku from the 2009 anime television series Bakemonogatari, produced by Shaft and . The track, with lyrics written by meg rock and music composed and arranged by , debuted as the opening theme for episode 10 ("Nadeko Snake, Part 2") of the series, which originally aired on September 11, 2009. It was later released as a standalone single by on January 27, 2010, and has since become a hallmark of the franchise's eclectic soundtrack. The song's lighthearted, upbeat rhythm and Hanazawa's playful vocal delivery, synchronized with Nadeko's shy and whimsical personality, quickly captured fans' attention during the Nadeko Snake arc, which explores themes of and identity through folklore-inspired elements. Following its anime premiere, Renai Circulation saw widespread and inclusion in official compilations like Utamonogatari (2016), underscoring its role in the series' musical narrative. Its enduring appeal stems from the track's infectious chorus and visual synergy with the anime's stylized animation, making it a staple in Bakemonogatari's legacy of character-driven theme songs. Beyond its original context, Renai Circulation achieved viral status in online culture, inspiring countless fan covers, remixes, and dance interpretations that amplified its reach on platforms like and Nico Nico Douga starting in late 2009. By , the song had become a phenomenon, with often highlighting its cute aesthetic and adaptability for , contributing to its sustained popularity across official and unofficial releases. This popularity has cemented Renai Circulation as one of the most iconic anime opening themes of the .

Production

Background and Development

Bakemonogatari is a Japanese anime television series produced by Shaft. The first 12 episodes aired from July 3 to September 25, 2009, on Tokyo MX, with the remaining three episodes released online in 2010, adapting the supernatural light novels written by Nisio Isin. The 15-episode series centers on high school student Koyomi Araragi's involvement with various oddities, blending mystery and character-driven narratives. The Nadeko arc, comprising episodes 9 and 10, introduces Nadeko Sengoku, a reserved junior who approaches Araragi for assistance regarding a personal matter central to her storyline. "Renai Circulation" was created as the opening theme exclusively for episode 10 of Bakemonogatari, titled "Nadeko Snake, Part 2," which premiered on September 11, 2009. This placement aligned the song directly with the conclusion of Nadeko's arc, emphasizing her viewpoint within the 's sequence. The track was composed by , who led the musical direction for the entire Bakemonogatari series, with lyrics penned by meg rock. Commissioned specifically for the character Nadeko Sengoku—voiced by —the song was designed to reflect Nadeko's shy and affectionate demeanor, drawing from her portrayal as an introverted yet endearing figure who hides behind her bangs for security. Development occurred in 2009 amid Shaft's production schedule, with initial recording sessions integrated into the anime's audio workflow to ensure synchronization with the visuals. The full single was later released on January 27, 2010, by .

Composition

"Renai Circulation" is classified as a track incorporating rap verses and electronic programming elements, composed and arranged by . The song operates at a tempo of 120 beats per minute in the key of , contributing to its upbeat and energetic feel suitable for an opening sequence. The instrumentation features synthesizers providing a light, ethereal quality, complemented by elements that enhance the song's cute and whimsical vibe, alongside Kana Hanazawa's layered vocals that include whispers and ad-libs for added texture. The structure begins with an intro featuring bell-like sounds, transitioning into a standard verse-chorus form, where the verses build gently before exploding into the catchy chorus. A notable bridge incorporates a rapid rap delivery, reflecting the stuttering speech pattern of the character Nadeko Sengoku. Production was handled by the team, with engineering by Yoshinori Kumamoto, resulting in a runtime of approximately 4:14 optimized for broadcast as the opening theme. The overall arrangement emphasizes a floating, airy atmosphere through synthesized effects, balancing pop with character-specific stylistic choices.

Release

Single and Media Releases

"Renai Circulation" was initially released as a limited edition CD single bundled with the fourth volume of the Bakemonogatari DVD and Blu-ray home video release on January 27, 2010. The CD featured the main vocal track performed by Kana Hanazawa as Nadeko Sengoku, along with an instrumental version. On the same date, issued a standalone physical single release of the song. This track was later compiled into the Bakemonogatari Ongaku Zenshū Songs & Soundtracks , a two-disc collection of the series' , which released on December 21, 2011. Digital versions of "Renai Circulation" became available for streaming on platforms including Spotify and Apple Music beginning in 2018. The song served as the opening theme for episode 10 of the Bakemonogatari anime and was included as an extra on the corresponding home video volume. In 2024, it received a stylistic reference through "caramel ribbon cursetard," the opening theme for the Nademonogatari arc in Monogatari Series: Off & Monster Season, also performed by Kana Hanazawa as Nadeko Sengoku.

Commercial Performance

"Renai Circulation," released as a single on January 27, 2010, achieved moderate success on physical charts in . The track demonstrated strong domestic appeal, particularly among fans, establishing it as a notable entry in the market during its initial period. In the digital realm, the song has seen sustained popularity. As of December 2024, it had amassed over 167 million streams on , reflecting its enduring fanbase and crossover appeal beyond its original context. Long-term performance further highlights its longevity, with the (RIAJ) certifying it Platinum in 2020 for exceeding 250,000 digital downloads—a milestone boosted by a resurgence on in 2020–2021, where user-generated dance videos reignited interest among younger audiences. Regionally, the song maintained dominance in , where it continues to perform well on local platforms. Internationally, charting was limited, driven by global streaming growth.

Lyrics and Themes

Lyrical Content

The lyrics of "Renai Circulation" were penned by Meg Rock under her for the track, employing a from Nadeko Sengoku's perspective to express tentative romantic feelings through whimsical and language. The song unfolds in a structured format typical of openings, beginning with an intro that sets a playful tone, followed by verses exploring internal conflict over unspoken emotions, pre-choruses evoking sensory delight, a repeating chorus affirming joy in connection, and a distinctive rap-style bridge that accelerates into rhythmic declarations. This organization builds from quiet vulnerability to exuberant repetition, mirroring the theme of evolving affection without resolving into direct confession. In Verse 1, the introduce shy affection with lines like "Kotoba ni sureba kiechau kankei nara / Kotoba o keseba ii ya tte / Omotteta kowagatteta / Dakedo are? Nanka chigau kamo" (If it's a relationship that fades when spoken / Then just erase the words, I thought / I was scared of that / But wait, maybe it's different?), highlighting toward verbalizing bonds. The chorus then shifts to emphatic , repeating the motif of love's "circulation" through "Kamisama arigatou / Unmei no itazura demo / Meguriaoeta koto ga / Shiawase na no" (Thank you, / Even if it's fate's prank / Just meeting you brings happiness), underscoring in romance. The rap bridge, positioned as an interlude, intensifies with tongue twisters such as "Koisuru kisetsu wa / Yokubari circulation / Koisuru kimochi wa / Yokubari circulation" (The season of / Greedily circulates / The feelings of / Greedily circulate), layering "circulation" over elements like seasons, emotions, gazes, and maidenhood in a fast-paced, accumulative flow that evokes insatiable yearning. Stylistically, the lyrics blend cute slang with onomatopoeia to convey lightness and infatuation, as seen in the pre-chorus's "Fuwafuwari fuwafuwari / Anata ga namae o yobu / Sore dake de sora e ukabu" (Fluffy, floating lightly / When you call my name / Just that makes me float into the sky), using "fuwafuwari" to mimic airy, heart-fluttering motion. Wordplay on "ren'ai" (romance) permeates the title and structure, portraying love as an endless loop, while puns add layered charm; notably, "Chiri mo tsumoreba yamato nadeshiko? / 'Shi' nuki de iya shinu ki de!" alters the proverb for an ideal woman ("yamato nadeshiko") by excising "shi" (death) to form "nadeko," implying determined pursuit "even if it kills me," with subtle ties to serpentine renewal motifs. Repetitive phrases like "motto motto" (more and more) and post-chorus pleas of "Watashi no koto mitete ne / Zutto zutto" (Keep looking at me / Forever and ever) reinforce the cyclical, insistent nature of budding love. English translations often prioritize rhythmic fidelity, particularly in the rap bridge, where adapters like Y. Chang in Lizz Robinett's cover rephrase lines such as "The feelings in / Circulate so greedily" to match syllable counts and flow for singability. Official appears in the single's , aiding precise pronunciation and study of the .

Connection to Character and Anime

"Renai Circulation" is performed by voice actress in her role as Nadeko Sengoku, the shy and timid junior high school student who serves as a childhood friend to Koyomi Araragi's younger sister and harbors unrequited romantic feelings toward the protagonist himself. Nadeko is depicted as a classic moe archetype, characterized by her cute appearance and hesitant demeanor, which often masks deeper emotional vulnerabilities stemming from her supernatural affliction involving a snake curse. This in-character vocal performance by Hanazawa emphasizes Nadeko's personality, with the song's delivery capturing her stuttering speech patterns and internal hesitations. The track functions as the fourth opening theme for the Bakemonogatari anime, specifically featured during the Nadeko Snake arc in episodes 9 and 10, where it mirrors Nadeko's internal monologue on her concealed affections and the cyclical, unreciprocated nature of her emotions. As a digital character single released under Nadeko's persona, the song integrates seamlessly with the arc's narrative, using thematic elements like circulating love to parallel her hidden feelings without revealing plot details. Produced to embody Nadeko's perspective, "Renai Circulation" aims to foster greater empathy among audiences for her character by vocalizing her unspoken turmoil in a lighthearted yet poignant manner. This approach influenced subsequent Monogatari series entries, where character-specific songs continued to deepen emotional connections to individual arcs and figures like Nadeko.

Reception

Critical Reviews

Critics have praised "Renai Circulation" for Kana Hanazawa's versatile vocal performance, which seamlessly blends cute, gentle tones with a soft rap section that captures the character's anxious and wavering emotions. In a 2010 review of the single, the track was lauded for its "fluffiness and cutesy levels... completely off the charts," resulting in an "endearing performance overall" that fits Nadeko Sengoku's demeanor perfectly. The song's light, joyful pop energy, combined with lush synths and a catchy melody, has been highlighted as a standout element in its production. Fan reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with the song noted for its popularity and catchiness. On , the single holds an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 from 711 user reviews as of November 2025, where it is described as a "perfect mix of joyful pop energy with a laid-back enough vibe that it never feels annoying or pushy." While some early listeners noted the rap segment's unconventional style in an anime context as initially surprising, later analyses have elevated the track to a staple of anime music, emphasizing its enduring catchiness and character-driven charm. In a 2019 retrospective on Heisei-era anime songs, recognized "Renai Circulation" as the winner of the Character Song Award for 2009, underscoring its influence in discussions of iconic anime openings and character themes. Aggregate scores reflect this acclaim, with a 3.9 out of 5 on as of November 2025, affirming its status as a high-impact contribution to the genre.

Awards and Recognition

"Renai Circulation" won the Character Song Award at the 2019 Heisei Anisong Grand Prix, selected as the top character song from the decade spanning 2000 to 2009. The song's performance by as Nadeko Sengoku has been recognized for its impact on music, contributing to her acclaim in circles and establishing an enduring legacy as an iconic character theme. While no major award losses are noted, its influence is evident in its frequent inclusion in discussions of memorable songs, such as WatchMojo's list of tracks that broke the . In 2023, Hanazawa performed at the Tencent Music Entertainment Awards, highlighting its global reach and continued popularity among international audiences.

Performances

Live Performances

Kana first performed "Renai Circulation" live during her 2015 concert tour titled Kana Hanazawa Live 2015: Blue Avenue, where it served as an encore at the opening show held at on May 3. The performance featured a full band arrangement that closely adhered to the original composition, with Hanazawa engaging the audience through energetic delivery and synchronized visuals projected on stage to evoke the song's whimsical origins. The song saw renewed live prominence in 2022 when Hanazawa included it in her Live 2022 Blossom tour and notably at 2022 -Sparkle- on August 28 at , marking its first appearance at the event in eleven years. This rendition drew over 30,000 attendees for the day, highlighting the track's enduring appeal among music fans, with the crowd actively participating by singing along to the iconic "fuwa fuwari" chorus during the performance. The set maintained the original's upbeat structure, augmented by live instrumentation and large-scale lighting effects to amplify the communal energy. In subsequent years, Hanazawa continued to feature "Renai Circulation" in select live settings, including a medley performance at the 2023 Entertainment Awards, where it was integrated with other character songs without significant alterations to its melody or arrangement. She also performed it at the Dream Entertainment Live event in October 2024, celebrating the 55th anniversary of . Acoustic interpretations have also appeared at smaller fan meet-and-greet events, emphasizing the song's intimate lyrical themes through stripped-down vocals and minimal backing. These renditions consistently encourage audience interaction, fostering a sense of shared nostalgia tied to the Bakemonogatari series.

Music Video and Visuals

The official for "Renai Circulation" was released as part of the limited edition bundled with volume 4 of the Bakemonogatari DVD and Blu-ray releases on January 27, 2010, by . Produced by the Shaft animation studio team, the video runs for 4:16, precisely matching the song's duration. The video blends animated sequences depicting Nadeko Sengoku in abstract, dreamlike environments filled with floating hearts and recurring snake motifs, drawing from her character's backstory in Bakemonogatari. These clips are intercut with live-action footage of performer lip-syncing the lyrics while dressed in a , creating a seamless fusion of real and animated worlds. Stylistically, the video embodies Shaft's signature aesthetic seen in the Bakemonogatari series, employing rapid editing, soft pastel color palettes, and surreal visual distortions to evoke the cyclical "circulation" of emotions central to the track. Quick transitions and layered effects heighten the sense of whimsical motion, aligning with the anime's techniques. The music video has been widely available on through various uploads since around 2010, accumulating tens of millions of views across platforms. It was also featured in promotional campaigns for the Bakemonogatari anime's HD remastered editions released in 2020.

Cultural Impact

Online Virality and Memes

Following its release in early 2010, "Renai Circulation" quickly became a phenomenon on , Japan's prominent video-sharing platform, where users created numerous dance covers and mash-ups inspired by the song's upbeat rhythm and the character's playful performance. These fan uploads proliferated within months, with standout dance videos, such as the choreography by user MAKOTO posted on December 26, 2009, exemplifying the trend's rapid spread among the "Odottemita" (dance cover) community. The song experienced a significant resurgence on starting around 2018, particularly in , where dance challenges and lip-sync videos propelled its virality among younger audiences. As of November 2025, the hashtag has inspired over 32,600 posts featuring coordinated dances and creative edits, contributing to the platform's global trend cycles. Into 2024 and 2025, the trend evolved with English-language lip-syncs adapting the lyrics for non-Japanese speakers and whimsical pet videos overlaying the song's melody on animal antics, sustaining its appeal across diverse . Memes centered on "Renai Circulation" often highlight the "fuwa fuwari" lyric and accompanying , which have been repurposed as reaction GIFs depicting lighthearted, floating expressions in anime-style animations. Parodies emerged in gaming communities, including 2022 Twitch streams where streamers incorporated the song into humorous gameplay montages and character role-plays. Additionally, in 2022, the track served as the ending theme for NHK Educational TV's child-rearing program Sukusuku Ko Sodate, introducing it to family-oriented audiences and inspiring wholesome meme variations. The song's global reach extends beyond Japan, facilitated by fan-subtitled videos and translations that made its quirky themes accessible worldwide. In Southeast Asia, it has seen sustained popularity, with Indonesian covers and adaptations proliferating; for instance, a live performance cover took place in Medan in May 2025, reflecting ongoing regional enthusiasm. English covers, like Lizz Robinett's 2012 version, further amplified its international footprint by blending the original's charm with localized interpretations. In July 2025, virtual YouTuber AZKi from Hololive released a live MV cover, adding to its ongoing digital presence.

Cover Versions and Adaptations

One of the earliest notable cover versions of "Renai Circulation" was recorded by singer Mai Kotone in 2010 as part of her single Cosmic☆UNIVERSE, where it appeared as a bonus track in an upbeat idol arrangement. This version emphasized a lively, dance-oriented style suitable for anime compilation albums like Anime Dance Best Gig. In 2012, American singer Lizz Robinett released a popular English-language adaptation, translating the lyrics to capture the song's whimsical themes of while retaining the original's bubbly melody; the full version was later included on her Renai Circulation EP via independent label Burnt Toast Records. Another early reinterpretation came in 2013 from singer-songwriter , who delivered an acoustic rendition as a limited first-press bonus track on her debut album euaru, stripping the song to intimate guitar and vocals for a more reflective tone. Later official covers expanded the song's reach within idol and multimedia franchises. In 2020, member Ayaka Tachikawa of the Japanese idol group 22/7 performed a cover during a collaboration event tied to the Monogatari series, infusing it with the group's signature energetic pop delivery. The following year, voice actress Rie Kugimiya, voicing Iori Minase in THE IDOLM@STER franchise, featured her 2010 recording from the album THE IDOLM@STER Break! 3rd KC PREMIUM ver. SPECIAL CD in promotional contexts, adapting it to a rock-inflected idol style that highlighted Minase's tsundere character traits. In September 2025, the virtual band Pastel*Palettes from the BanG Dream! multimedia project released a full band arrangement on the mobile game BanG Dream! Girls Band Party!, transforming the track into a rock-pop fusion with layered instrumentation and group vocals to suit the franchise's live-band aesthetic. More recent covers in 2025 reflect the song's ongoing global appeal, particularly through independent and regional artists. Indonesian cosplay and music group VAARENT delivered a live cover in May at Centre Point Medan, blending anime enthusiasm with local performance flair in a faithful yet energetic rendition. By September, various TikTok creators, including Sato Ryuu, produced English adaptations linked to viral challenges, often with simplified arrangements and subtitles to engage international anime fans. Beyond vocal covers, adaptations have included genre shifts such as rock arrangements in idol projects like THE IDOLM@STER, where the song's pop structure supports amplified guitars and driving rhythms. No official remixes have been released by the original label , though fan-created dubs in languages including English, Chinese, and Indonesian have proliferated online, often shared via streaming platforms to localize the lyrics for broader accessibility.

References

  1. https://www.aniplex.co.jp/news/detail/?id=12510
  2. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2187299/
  3. https://music.apple.com/jp/album/%25E6%2581%258B%25E6%2584%259B%25E3%2582%25B5%25E3%2583%25BC%25E3%2582%25AD%25E3%2583%25A5%25E3%2583%25AC%25E3%2583%25BC%25E3%2582%25B7%25E3%2583%25A7%25E3%2583%25B3-%25E5%258C%2596%25E7%2589%25A9%25E8%25AA%259E-single/1535804170
  4. https://online.aniplex.co.jp/itemQWyrFmap.html
  5. https://music.youtube.com/browse/MPREb_jMldvFYAXL6
  6. https://knowyourmeme.com/memes/renai-circulation
  7. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCyS9WlvhtS/?hl=en
  8. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1480925/
  9. https://bakemonogatari.fandom.com/wiki/Bakemonogatari_Episode_10:_Nadeko_Snake%2C_Part_2
  10. https://vgmdb.net/album/24367
  11. https://bakemonogatari.fandom.com/wiki/Nadeko_Sengoku
  12. https://rateyourmusic.com/release/single/%25E5%258D%2583%25E7%259F%25B3%25E6%2592%25AB%25E5%25AD%2590/%25E6%2581%258B%25E6%2584%259B%25E3%2582%25B5%25E3%2583%25BC%25E3%2582%25AD%25E3%2583%25A5%25E3%2583%25AC%25E3%2583%25BC%25E3%2582%25B7%25E3%2583%25A7%25E3%2583%25B3-and-%25E3%2581%2582%25E3%2581%25A8%25E3%2581%258C%25E3%2581%259F%25E3%2582%258A/
  13. https://www.hooktheory.com/theorytab/view/kana-hanazawa-satoru-kousaki-meg-rock/renai-circulation--bakemonogatari-op4
  14. https://songbpm.com/%40tsuyu/renai-circulation
  15. https://tunebat.com/Info/Renai-Circulation-Kana-Hanazawa/6JhDsAKdlAHjfuEmKyQ5kD
  16. https://www.scribd.com/document/496819251/Renai-Circulation
  17. https://genius.com/Genius-romanizations-tsuyu-renai-circulation-romanized-lyrics
  18. https://music.apple.com/jp/album/%25E6%2581%258B%25E6%2584%259B%25E3%2582%25B5%25E3%2583%25BC%25E3%2582%25AD%25E3%2583%25A5%25E3%2583%25AC%25E3%2583%25BC%25E3%2582%25B7%25E3%2583%25A7%25E3%2583%25B3-%25E5%258C%2596%25E7%2589%25A9%25E8%25AA%259E-single/1535804170?l=en-US
  19. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auQxNYJ07Lc
  20. https://www.blu-ray.com/movies/Bakemonogatari-Vol-4-Blu-ray/197227/
  21. https://arksquare.net/detail.php?cdno=SVWC-7814
  22. https://open.spotify.com/track/6JhDsAKdlAHjfuEmKyQ5kD
  23. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=10196
  24. https://news.aniplex.co.jp/detail.html?id=65689
  25. https://lyricstranslate.com/en/collection/top-100-most-streamed-anime-openings-dec-20
  26. https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000333.000010908.html
  27. https://www.j-cast.com/2021/05/05410471.html
  28. https://genius.com/Kana-hanazawa-renai-circulation-lyrics
  29. https://genius.com/Genius-romanizations-kana-hanazawa-renai-circulation-romanized-lyrics
  30. https://kafkafuura.wordpress.com/2010/02/08/renai-circulation/
  31. https://genius.com/Genius-english-translations-kana-hanazawa-renai-circulation-english-translation-lyrics
  32. https://www.animelyrics.com/anime/bakemonogatari/renaicirculation.htm
  33. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/bakemonogatari/episode-9/.113374
  34. https://www.crunchyroll.com/news/features/2021/1/27/feature-meet-the-stars-of-princess-connect-redive
  35. https://bakemonogatari.fandom.com/wiki/Renai_Circulation
  36. https://www.crunchyroll.com/news/guides/2024/3/10/a-guide-to-all-monogatari-arcs-in-order
  37. https://www.generasia.com/wiki/Renai_Circulation
  38. https://blog.animeinstrumentality.net/soundtrack-reviews/bakemonogatari-op-single-%E2%80%93-renai-circulation-%E2%80%93-review/
  39. https://www.albumoftheyear.org/album/269155--kana-hanazawa--renai-circulation.php
  40. https://myanimelist.net/forum/?topicid=1924807
  41. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2019-03-04/heisei-anisong-grand-prize-winners-2000-2009/.144172
  42. https://www.watchmojo.com/articles/top-10-anime-songs-that-broke-the-internet
  43. https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/kana-hanazawa/2023/avenida-dr-sun-yat-sen-macau-macao-sar-china-63d0ae77.html
  44. https://otakumode.com/news/554aee4e836c6e500e9fd86f/Curtain-Rises-on-Kana-Hanazawa%25E2%2580%2599s-Live-Tour-Hanazawa-Holds-First-Concert-at-Nippon-Budokan
  45. https://somoskudasai.com/noticias/tras-once-anos-kana-hanazawa-canto-renai-circulation-en-el-anisama/
  46. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYZrO04MJS4
  47. https://www.tiktok.com/tag/renai%20circulation
  48. https://tenor.com/view/saki-fuwa-dance-cute-victory-anime-girl-gif-5150877826925197500
  49. https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2171853941
  50. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUM_PfRxJkw
  51. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zp0w346xI28
  52. https://www.reddit.com/r/Hololive/comments/1m74a0s/live_mv_azki_renai_circulation_%25E6%2581%258B%25E6%2584%259B%25E3%2582%25B5%25E3%2583%25BC%25E3%2582%25AD%25E3%2583%25A5%25E3%2583%25AC%25E3%2583%25BC%25E3%2582%25B7%25E3%2583%25A7%25E3%2583%25B3/
  53. https://open.spotify.com/album/4TQ3QxQiacYEOYpnd431ZL
  54. https://vgmdb.net/album/39013
  55. https://project-imas.wiki/Renai_Circulation
  56. https://bestdori.com/info/songs/731/Renai-Circulation
  57. https://open.spotify.com/track/1YLulCkIocAKDTPFths9at
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