A coming-of-age song that was a hit in the ’90s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.

The Summer When You Were ThereMr.Children

Mr.Children 'The Summer You Were There'

It was released in 1992 as Mr.Children’s first single.

Their fresh, just-debuted presence feels very new.

The moments spent with an old lover are sweet and a little bittersweet, but the lyrics overflow with the resolve to move forward while holding those memories close, bringing back the feeling of youth.

That paper airplane splits the cloudy sky19

That paper airplane splits the cloudy sky

A song that captures a vivid instant of youth was created by 19.

It beautifully expresses the pure longing and uncertainty of young people through the image of entrusting dreams scribbled on the back of a test sheet to a paper airplane and letting it fly into the sky.

With delicate sensibilities and a warm sound, it gently embraces the wavering emotions unique to adolescence.

Released in March 1999, the track was used as a TBS campaign song and reached No.

6 on the Oricon charts.

It was also performed at that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Included on the albums “Ongaku” and “19 BEST●Blue,” it has been loved for many years.

It’s sure to be a song that quietly stands by anyone taking a new step forward with the arrival of spring.

anemoneMOON CHILD

MOON CHILD / Anemone

This is one of MOON CHILD’s signature songs, offering a refreshing snapshot of summer youth.

Released in November 1997 as their sixth single, it was featured as the opening theme for TBS’s COUNT DOWN TV and used in a Kao commercial, making it popular with a wide audience.

The song paints a summer scene where the wind blows and the scent of vanilla drifts through the air, expressing the hope-filled everyday lives of young people.

It’s the perfect track for when you’re feeling nostalgic about your youth.

It might be nice to listen to on a sunny day while taking a walk outside.

Seesaw Game: A Brave Love SongMr.Children

Mr.Children “Seesaw Game ~A Brave Love Song~” MUSIC VIDEO

When it comes to Mr.

Children’s summer songs, many people probably think of “Kimi ga Ita Natsu” first.

But with the image of that memorable commercial—Kazutoshi Sakurai singing on the beach with a Rickenbacker—in mind, I’d like to introduce this track that’s perfect for summer listening.

Released in 1995, it became a massive hit, selling a total of 1.812 million copies.

With lyrics bursting with Sakurai’s signature style, an irresistibly catchy melody, and an undeniably feel-good pop sound, it’s a flawless pop song.

What’s also interesting is that—from the melodic structure to the music video—it’s a full-on homage to Elvis Costello, whom Sakurai deeply admires.

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Hello, Again ~A place that has existed since long ago~My Little Lover

My Little Lover "Hello, Again ~A Place That’s Been There Since Long Ago~

A song by My Little Lover known as a quintessential 90s classic.

Released in August 1995, it was used as the opening theme for the NTV drama “Endless Summer.” This piece sings of the courage and hope to take a new step forward while reminiscing about nostalgic places and dear ones.

Its melody, blending poignancy with warmth, resonates with many listeners.

It topped the Oricon singles chart and became a long-running hit, staying on the charts for 23 weeks.

It’s a perfect track for anyone who has left their hometown or experienced a farewell with someone important.

Be sure to give it a listen.

cream sodaSUPERCAR

SUPERCAR / cream soda (Official Music Video)

This song portrays emotions swaying between the fleeting nature of youth and the weight of reality.

As SUPERCAR’s debut single, it’s memorable for its refreshing blend of shoegaze and guitar pop, paired with poignant lyrics that trace dreams and longing.

Koji Nakamura’s delicate melodies as the lead vocalist intertwine with Junji Ishiwatari’s poetic words, gently resonating in the heart.

Released in September 1997 by Epic Records Japan, it was also included on the album Three Out Change.

It’s a track with a mysterious charm that seems to bring back nostalgic memories when you listen to it during a drive, at dusk, or in moments when you feel a touch of melancholy.

Bye For NowT-BOLAN

T-BOLAN「Bye For Now」MV

A gem of a ballad that has etched itself into many hearts as a supportive song about a beautiful farewell.

Released by T-BOLAN in November 1992, it was used as the theme song for Woman Dream and impressively became a million-seller.

Its powerful message—singing of the courage and hope to move toward one’s dreams after overcoming the loneliness of parting—deeply resonates with listeners.

It remains a beloved song more than 30 years after its release, one you’ll want to hear when parting from someone dear, at graduation ceremonies, or at the start of a new journey.

Also included on the albums HEART OF STONE and SINGLES, it shines as one of T-BOLAN’s signature masterpieces.