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 Japanese tracks (41–50)
CRUCIFY MY LOVEX JAPAN
The 15th single by X JAPAN, a five-member visual-kei rock band known as one of Japan’s most mainstream metal acts thanks to their aggressive metal sound and classical musicality.
This song was used as the ending theme for the information-variety show “Tonight 2” and as the commercial song for Nippon Oil’s “ZOA.” It’s a ballad that showcases X JAPAN’s wide musical range.
The beautiful high-toned vocals over an ensemble of just piano and strings evoke the poignancy and melancholy of autumn.
Despite being sung in English, its message pierces the heart—a simple yet majestic number.
Serenade of the Ginkgo AvenueOzawa Kenji
It’s a poignant love song set against an autumn ginkgo-lined avenue.
It’s included on Kenji Ozawa’s album “LIFE,” released in August 1994.
The song conveys the protagonist’s feelings after a breakup through sentimental lyrics and melody.
Its unique atmosphere—blending nostalgia for days gone by with thoughts of the future—is captivating.
With its relaxed tempo, it’s perfect for a long autumn night.
A song that gently stays by the side of anyone who’s experienced heartbreak.
Wish Upon a StarMoritaka Chisato
An autumn night sky and constellations painted with delicate sensitivity.
Chisato Moritaka’s 1997 song “Hoshi ni Negai wo” (“Wish Upon a Star”) centers on the theme of a starry sky seen from the rooftop of a city building.
Included on the album PEACHBERRY, the song gently portrays the soothing feeling that comes from gazing up at the night sky.
The lyrics are striking as they search for constellations and ponder the heroes of Greek mythology.
Time spent simply staring at the stars, letting the night breeze wash over you, will surely calm anyone’s heart.
When you want to step away from the noise of everyday life, why not give this track a listen?
Shonan SeptemberSazan Ōrusutāzu
A Southern All Stars song that paints a bittersweet scene as if it were a painting.
It is included on the album “Sakura,” released in October 1998.
Set in Shonan at the end of summer, this gem of a ballad sings of the sorrow of a love that has passed.
The evocative imagery—like the sound of rain and the light of the moon—is striking.
Keisuke Kuwata’s delicate vocals further highlight the fragility of love.
It’s a song perfect for a September night, when you feel the lingering afterglow of summer and await the arrival of autumn.
Autumn, by the Tama RiverKAN
When talking about 90s J-pop, KAN is an indispensable artist, isn’t he? This song is one of his hidden gems, with lyrics that weave a story set in autumn.
Its distinctly 90s sound evokes nostalgia, and listening to it now makes it resonate even more deeply.
Although it portrays heartbreak, the song’s breezy vibe and his crisp, sunny vocals leave you with a warm, positive feeling.
The Fourth Avenue CafeL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
This is the 29th single by L’Arc~en~Ciel, a four-piece rock band whose ever-evolving sound has won them popularity not only in Japan but around the world.
Originally a track from their fourth album, “True,” it was re-released a decade later after being selected as the ending theme for the TV anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story.
Though the lyrics are tinged with sadness, the pop-leaning melody and arrangement evoke a feeling that makes you want to head out somewhere during the comfortable autumn season.
It’s an emotional rock tune that reaffirms their timeless musical sensibilities, unfaded by the passage of time.
Beyond the Night SkySMAP
Even after their 2016 disbandment, calls for a reunion have never ceased, and the movements of each member are constantly in the spotlight.
This is the 27th single by the five-member idol group SMAP.
Used as the theme song for their own variety show “SMAP×SMAP,” the track became the group’s first million-selling single.
Its melody is catchy yet somehow imbued with a floating, almost hypnotic quality, carrying a wistful tone that evokes autumn nights.
Among SMAP’s many songs, this is a particularly famous, lyrical number that features their distinctive harmonies.