Autumn songs that were hits in the ’90s. Classic and popular tracks in Japanese music.
There are many expressions like “the autumn of ____,” but for those of you who’ve come here, I’m guessing “the autumn of music” comes first.
In this article, I’ve put together a collection of autumn songs that were hits in the 1990s! From ballads that perfectly match a scene of dancing autumn leaves to pop tunes with a nostalgic vibe, it’s a playlist packed with the essence of the ’90s.
I think you’ll discover songs that naturally bring back memories of those days when you listen! Please enjoy it to the end!
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Autumn songs that were hits in the ’90s: Classic and popular J-Pop tracks (21–30)
Time goes byEvery Little Thing
Every Little Thing, who debuted in 1996, were among the artists who had major hits at the time.
Among their songs, this one stands out as a signature track with a deeply mellow mood, and I’m sure many people could still sing it without looking at the lyrics.
The story told in the lyrics takes a very heartrending turn that leaves a strong impact, making it a classic that perfectly matches the bittersweet feelings of autumn.
The Blue AgeKinKi Kids
It’s a song by KinKi Kids, both of whom are also successful as solo artists, and it was used as the theme song for the drama “Aoi no Jidai,” starring Tsuyoshi Domoto.
The two singers’ beautiful voices shine over the gentle piano accompaniment.
The lyrics evoke youthful days and connect with the nostalgic feeling of autumn, making the song all the more evocative when listened to in this season.
Autumn songs that were hits in the '90s: Classic and popular J-Pop tracks (31–40)
Just a little more… a bit more…ZARD
The women’s vocal music unit ZARD—whose group name was coined from words like “Lizard,” “hazard,” “blizzard,” and “wizard”—released this as their ninth single.
The song was used as the ending theme for the TV drama Lullaby Detective ’93, and its poignant message about a forbidden love really tugs at the heart.
The melancholy piano tones and lyrics that paint a vivid story evoke a sorrow that seems to mirror the autumn scenery fading in color as winter approaches.
With an emotional melody that shakes the soul, it stands as one of ZARD’s signature tracks.
Ballad of a SingerSaitō Kazuyoshi
One of Kazuyoshi Saito’s signature songs, it’s a famous track that many of you probably know.
The lyrics depict the story of a singer who can only convey his true feelings through song—beautiful words that pierce straight into the heart.
The simple guitar accompaniment and his slightly raspy voice, tinged with melancholy, enhance the song’s allure.
That indescribable tightening-in-the-chest feeling… doesn’t it feel a bit like the autumn season?
Watarase BridgeMoritaka Chisato
This is the 17th single by singer-songwriter Chisato Moritaka, who showcases her musical sensibilities as a multi-instrumentalist performing various instruments live.
The song was used as the ending theme for the travel program “Ii Tabi Yume Kibun,” and is known as the first single on which Moritaka herself participated as an instrumental performer.
Its heartrending lyrics and melody evoke such a strong sense of melancholy that you can picture the scenery even if you’ve never been to the place.
It’s an emotional number that’s perfect for autumn, a season often associated with farewells.
innocent worldMr.Children
It’s one of Mr.Children’s signature songs, and they’ve been leading the J-pop scene since back then.
The refreshing melody evokes a clear autumn sky, and the lyrics—filled with inner conflict and forward-looking hope—leave a strong impression.
I’m sure many fans felt encouraged by it at the time.
It’s a timeless classic that hasn’t faded, no matter how many years have passed since its release.
Blown by the windElefanto Kashimashi
A heartwarming autumn classic that sings of an unchanging, everyday breeze.
It’s a song by Elephant Kashimashi, released in 1997 as their 16th single.
It was also featured in a Glico Almond Chocolate commercial, drawing wide attention.
You’ll be drawn into a soundscape woven from Hiroji Miyamoto’s passionate vocals and a bittersweet melody.
The lyrics poetically reflect on the passage of time, evoking a delicate sense of nostalgia.
It’s a track you’ll want to play in those autumn twilights, when you find yourself quietly lost in thought.