Tears won’t stop with these sentimental lyrics! Heisei-era tearjerker songs
In every era, there are sentimental songs that tug at our heartstrings.
Songs about the pain of heartbreak, of course, and those that depict an eternal farewell with someone dear—just picturing those scenes can bring you to tears.
And it’s not only sad songs; there are also countless tracks that express gratitude.
So this time, we’re introducing tear-jerker songs born in the Heisei era.
Why not give them a listen when you want to have a good cry?
I can’t stop crying at the sentimental lyrics! Heisei-era tearjerker songs (1–10)
Until the day I can no longer rememberback number
A masterpiece that beautifully portrays the inner landscape where the grief of losing a loved one intersects with the desire to hold on to their memories.
The gentle, humming-like melody, the understated guitar riff, and Iyori Shimizu’s wistful vocals all deepen the emotions of parting.
Released in October 2011, this song is included on the album “Superstar” and was also used as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s music program “JAPAN COUNTDOWN.” Although the vocal range is fairly wide, the calm melodic line makes it a song you can sing while savoring the lyrics.
Maplesupittsu
It’s one of Spitz’s signature ballads and an absolutely indispensable song when introducing bittersweet tracks.
The song was originally included on the March 1998 album “Fake Fur,” and was later released as a single.
It has been used as an insert song across eras, in dramas like “Over Time” and “silent,” so I think many people have heard it.
The lyrics convey a heartfelt resolve to keep moving forward while holding tight to memories of a beloved person one can no longer meet, and it really squeezes your heart.
Masamune Kusano’s soft, clear vocals and the band’s warm performance seem to gently permeate a sorrowful heart, while at the same time accentuating the loneliness embedded in the lyrics.
FlowerORANGE RANGE
ORANGE RANGE is a rock band with a three-vocalist lineup, each with a different vocal range, captivating fans with their wide expressive palette.
Released in October 2004 as their eighth single, this song became a major hit as the theme for the film “Be with You.” It sings of a universal love directed not only toward a lover but also toward irreplaceable people like family and friends, with heartfelt lyrics that resonated with many.
Layers of strings over a wistful melody create an emotionally stirring ballad worthy of the catchphrase “the version of RANGE that makes you cry.” It topped the Oricon Weekly Chart for a total of four weeks and was also included on the acclaimed album “musiQ.” Listening to it while thinking of someone dear brings a gentle warmth, as if your heart is being softly embraced.
OrangeSMAP
Celebrated as a moving number among SMAP’s songs, this poignant ballad centers on the themes of parting and reunion.
Released in 2000 as the B-side to the single “Lion Heart,” it has been popular among fans since its debut and is esteemed enough to be included on the best album “SMAP 25 YEARS.” Characterized by a gentle melody line and calm arrangement, its lyrics—depicting the sorrow of farewell and feelings of gratitude—resonate with many listeners.
It’s a song that offers solace to those who have experienced heartbreak or separation from someone important, as well as to those who are about to take a new step forward.
A Bouquet for YouUtada Hikaru
A digital-only single by Hikaru Utada featuring a strikingly transparent arrangement centered on piano and strings.
Chosen as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Toto Nee-chan,” the track is also included on the album “Fantôme,” released in September 2016.
The beautiful metaphor of entrusting inexpressible feelings to a bouquet is deeply moving.
With lyrics that are simple yet full of profound emotion and Utada’s gently resonant vocals, the song achieves exquisite harmony.
It’s a perfect choice when you want to express gratitude to someone special or to quietly calm your heart.
DEPARTURESglobe
A love song that defined the ’90s, where a heart-stirringly beautiful melody and gentle vocals resonate deep in your chest.
Through the faint hopes and anxieties born from sharing the same days, and the eventual parting and new beginnings, this single—released in February 1996—lovingly captures the memories the two protagonists walked together.
Its familiar dance tune and bittersweet romantic feelings lead you into a breathtakingly dramatic progression.
Featured in JR East’s ski campaign “JR ski ski,” it was etched into many people’s hearts alongside the striking visuals of Yutaka Takenouchi and Makiko Esumi.
An eternal classic from globe, dedicated to everyone setting out on a new path.
I want to see you.sawada chikako
This song, themed around a heartrending farewell, is a memorable number featuring Chikaco Sawada’s soul-stirring vocals.
Released as a single from the 1990 album “I MISS YOU,” it was chosen as the ending theme for the TV Asahi network’s wide show “Tonight,” generating significant buzz.
It became a million-seller and won the Grand Prix at the 24th All Japan Cable Broadcasting Awards, and is widely known as one of Chikaco Sawada’s signature songs.
It is a moving piece that offers solace to those experiencing the pain of heartbreak or the sorrow of losing someone dear.