Tears won’t stop with these sentimental lyrics! Heisei-era tearjerker songs

OrangeSMAP

Orange/SMAP

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.

DEPARTURESglobe

globe / 'DEPARTURES' (Starring: Ayaka Miyoshi)

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.

Flavor Of LifeUtada Hikaru

Hikaru Utada – Flavor of Life -Ballad Version-

This is a masterpiece that delicately portrays the bittersweet pain of heartbreak and parting.

Released in February 2007, it’s a song by Hikaru Utada and served as the image song for the TBS drama “Boys Over Flowers 2 (Returns).” It beautifully expresses the many emotions brought on by saying goodbye to someone you love, with a memorable melody that resonates as if you can feel the very essence of love throughout your whole body.

The song topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for three consecutive weeks and was also included on the album “HEART STATION.” It’s a track that resonates deeply during the poignant moments of love or when you’re feeling uncertain about a relationship with someone important.

crescent moonayaka

Ayaka – Crescent Moon

This ambitious work powerfully sings of the aching feelings of longing for a faraway lover.

Released as a single in September 2006, it showcases Ayaka’s outstanding expressive ability to the fullest.

The song is memorable for its forward-looking resolve to overcome parting and loneliness with a loved one, as well as its strong will to keep thinking of that person, while also conveying a sense of a positive future.

It was featured as the CM song for au’s “LISMO” and as the theme song for NHK General TV’s “Tsunagaru TV @ Human,” and it won the Best New Artist Award at the 48th Japan Record Awards.

It’s a song that offers comfort to those in long-distance relationships or anyone who has experienced a farewell with someone dear.

FlowerORANGE RANGE

ORANGE RANGE “Hana” MV

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.

May it be filled with kindnessJUJU

JUJU 'So That It Overflows with Kindness'

This is a heartwarming ballad that gently embraces deep love and gratitude for someone precious.

Even as everyday life changes in the blink of an eye and we feel on the verge of losing sight of what truly matters, the presence of a loved one reminds us of life’s meaning and joy.

The song portrays the beauty of unconditional love and mutual support, conveyed through a voice that resonates with the heart.

Released in February 2009 as JUJU’s ninth single, it became her first to enter the Oricon Weekly Top 10 and was also featured in a collaborative commercial by MTV Japan and Nissan.

Included on the album “What’s Love?”, it has garnered wide support, including numerous cover versions by various artists.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when your feelings for someone special overflow or when you want to express your gratitude.

Let the warm vocals fill your heart with kindness.

Theory of the Mindful HeartRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – A Theory of Heart [Official Music Video]

A signature ballad by RADWIMPS that gently soothes hidden feelings and a lonely soul.

Its poetic lyrics, which portray delicate emotions, and its emotional melody sink deeply into the heart.

You can’t help but empathize with the protagonist—burdened by self-denial and fear of others—who encounters a pure presence, is cleansed at heart, and discovers a new self.

Released in July 2006, it reached No.

13 on the Oricon weekly chart.

It was later included on the album “RADWIMPS 4 ~Okazu no Gohan~,” significantly boosting the band’s popularity.

When you feel lost in life or have experienced a farewell with someone precious, this song is sure to be a source of support.