Here come the true classics: a roundup of the cheer songs that were big hits in the Heisei era!
The 1990s were the peak era for CD sales, and the Heisei period produced countless hit songs that are still sung today.
These are tunes everyone could hum along to.
They topped sales charts and are frequently featured on music shows.
Focusing on the “Best Hits,” we’ve compiled a variety of cheer songs—from anthems by the era’s biggest artists that defined Heisei, to hidden gems born from special projects with a touch of cool sophistication.
Dive in whenever you’re feeling nostalgic and in need of the comfort that Heisei cheer songs bring.
- An energizing song that was a hit in the 2000s—a classic that gives you strength.
- Just listening will lift your spirits! Energetic and cheer-up songs that defined the Heisei era.
- [Hit Songs of the 1990s] The Best Uplifting J-Pop Hits!
- [A Life-Affirming Anthem] An Encouraging Song to Cheer You On
- Songs from the Heisei retro era that will get any generation excited! Timeless tracks you’ll want to listen to now.
- [Cheer-Up Songs Special] Songs that give you courage when you're feeling down. Encouraging tracks.
- [Exams, Club Activities, Dreams] Encouragement songs recommended for teens: Tracks to listen to when you want to do your best
- [For those doing their best] A collection of motivational cheer songs
- Cheer songs that were hits in the 2000s
- [Showa-Era Classics] A carefully selected collection of uplifting anthems that empower people across generations
- Songs that make you feel positive when you listen. Top recommended cheer and positive tracks.
- Now’s the time to listen! Uplifting Showa-era songs that brightened Japan
- Just listening will surely move your heart! A moving song that represents the Heisei era.
[Feel the Boost!] Heisei-Era Cheer Songs: The Best Hits (1–10)
Don’t give upZARD
ZARD’s classic song “Makenaide.” Even today, it frequently appears across various media, with “24-Hour TV” being a prime example.
It’s no exaggeration to call it Japan’s most famous cheer song.
The charm of this track lies in its powerful message that gives you strength when you feel like giving up.
The message—“Don’t give up, you’re almost there”—is straightforward and honest, and precisely because it’s so correct, it really hits home.
Rather than simply throwing harshness at you, it gently helps you face forward.
As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE
The duo DREAMS COME TRUE, known for their powerful vocals and catchy sound, were hugely successful from the 1990s through the 2000s.
They have an incredible number of classic songs, but this time I’d like to recommend Nando Demo as a cheer-up song.
Whether it’s a lover, family, or friends—everyone has someone precious to them.
This song portrays the idea that no matter how tough things get, remembering those important people fills you with strength and helps you push through.
Its messages are especially encouraging for office workers swaying on packed early-morning trains, so be sure to check it out.
Last chanceSomething ELse
Something Else, a Japanese band affectionately known as “Samuel.” Centered around an acoustic sound, they boast a distinctive musical style where stylish melodies peek through a languid, ennui-tinged atmosphere—a sound that gained popularity in the 1990s.
Among Samuel’s songs, the cheering anthem I especially recommend is Last Chance.
Its lyrics, which candidly speak of jealousy and pride, may help you recognize your true self—in a good way.
At all times.Makihara Noriyuki
Singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara has left us with many masterpieces.
Many people may have been disappointed by that incident, but the songs he created still give strength to countless listeners.
Among his works, the encouragement song I especially recommend is “Donna Tokimo” (“No Matter When/What Happens”).
It’s a song about the importance of forging ahead on your own path, true to yourself; paired with its catchy melody, it really hits home.
I sincerely hope Makihara-san will, like in this song, hold himself accountable while staying true to who he is, and make his return to the spotlight.
Endless JourneyMr.Children
As we enter adolescence, we may feel anxious, caught between high hopes for our future and a present that makes those hopes seem out of reach.
I went through a long period like that myself.
If you’re a student reading this, I encourage you to listen to “Endless Journey.” The song carries the message that life is, no matter how far you go, a journey of self-discovery.
For students weighed down by a vague, nameless anxiety, it’s a song that can lift a burden off your shoulders—so please give it a listen!