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 (1–10)
Hello, my friendMatsutōya Yumi
A song by Yumi Matsutoya (Yuming) that was used as the theme for the drama “Kimi to Ita Natsu,” which featured Asaka Seto and Issei Ishida.
It feels perfectly fitting and deeply moving to listen to during the transition from summer to autumn.
Although it has a somewhat melancholic tone, it carries a refreshing quality amid the wistfulness—a song that signals the end of summer.
Girls’ GenerationHarayuko
This song features a nostalgic melody that gently embraces days gone by and resonates in the heart.
Originally written for Yuki Saito, it was included as a self-cover on the single “Makeruna Onna no Ko!” released in November 1991, and was chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime “YAWARA! a fashionable judo girl!” The bittersweet memories of youth, spun by Hara’s warm vocals, naturally overlap with the slightly lonely scenery of autumn as you listen.
It may touch you even more deeply if you play it at dusk while lost in thought.
Go Go Round This World!fisshumanzu
It’s a classic by Fishmans, beloved for their genre-defying, original sound! Built on a foundation of reggae and dub, the song’s gently floating feel is a perfect match for the slightly wistful air of autumn.
While it sings of universal emotions hidden in everyday life, it also unfolds a mysterious, elusive world that draws you in deeper with every listen.
Released as a maxi single in February 1994.
How about taking it along for a walk at dusk?
A Smile for the Angel of TearsHarayuko
This is a gentle piece woven by piano and strings, perfectly suited to autumn’s sentimental mood! It’s a solo number by Haruko Hara, also known as a member of Southern All Stars, with lyrics and composition by Keisuke Kuwata.
Released as a single in November 1997, it was used as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Amakarashan.” The lyrics are deeply moving, depicting a figure who, even in despair, finds a spark of hope and tries to face forward.
Listening to her warm, embracing voice feels like your heart is being cleansed.
the Fourth Avenue CaféL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
This is a song by L’Arc~en~Ciel set on an autumn street corner.
The buoyant horn section is wonderfully vibrant and pairs perfectly with the exhilarating, fast-paced band sound.
Yet, in contrast to its bright tone, the lyrics depict a poignant scene of a couple parting ways.
The worldview that overlays the changing seasons with hearts growing apart is truly heart-wrenching.
The track is included on the album “True” and was used as an ending theme for the TV anime Rurouni Kenshin.
It’s also a fan favorite that took first place in the band’s live “setlist request” poll.
Oh, Girl (The Sad Screen of My Heart)Sazan Ōrusutāzu
A gem of a ballad crafted by Southern All Stars.
It portrays, from a third-person perspective, a woman who single-mindedly continues to long for someone she can no longer meet.
The metaphor in the lyrics—that her sweet yet painful emotions are projected onto a screen—is truly superb.
This piece is included on the classic album “Southern All Stars,” released in January 1990, and was later featured on the best-of collection “Ballad 3: the album of LOVE.” Keisuke Kuwata’s wistful vocals and melody link exquisitely with the lonely, autumnal atmosphere, making it a masterpiece.
spidersupittsu
This is a track by Spitz featuring exhilarating, fast-paced guitar sounds.
The song portrays a tenuous yet powerful bond between two people drawn together by fate.
It carries a buoyant sense of excitement—like they’re stretching just a bit, yet filled with confidence about the future—that lifts the listener’s spirits as well.
After being included on the album “Sora no Tobikata” (How to Fly in the Sky), it was released as a single in October 1994 in response to radio buzz.
With its refreshing, breeze-like energy, it’s a perfect companion for a drive.
An afternoon offMoritaka Chisato
This piece is a gentle number with a theme of a casually spent holiday afternoon, one that quietly soaks into the heart.
The affection for everyday life expressed over a mellow folk-pop sound leaves you with a warm feeling as you listen.
The relaxed vocals suit the soft sunlight of autumn perfectly.
Released in October 1995 as the 26th single, it was used as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s “Ii Tabi, Yume Kibun.” It’s an ideal song for when you want to spend some leisurely time.
Hold my soulHimuro Kyosuke
Kyosuke Himuro, who took the world by storm as the vocalist of BOØWY and enjoys immense popularity as a solo artist, released “Tamashii wo Daite Kure” in October 1995 as the first single following his move to a private label.
It’s a rock ballad perfect for listening to on long autumn nights.
Chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Kaze no Keiji: Tokyo-hatsu!”, it reached No.
2 on the Oricon weekly chart.
Majestic strings and a heart-piercing melody blend beautifully with Himuro’s uniquely charismatic vocals.
It’s a track you’ll want to savor in the season when people yearn for connection.
alone in my roomSuzuki Ami
This is a song by Ami Suzuki, produced by Tetsuya Komuro.
It portrays a protagonist who spends time alone in her room, insisting she’s “not lonely” as a bit of bravado.
It’s the kind of song that resonates as summer’s bustle fades and the season sets in when you long for warmth.
Released in September 1998 as her second single, it was also well known as the opening theme for the popular TV show ASAYAN.
It’s a perfect fit for those moments when you’re feeling sentimental.