Cool songs of the Heisei era. Hit tracks that energized the times.
The Heisei era saw the birth of countless masterpieces, with many works achieving million-selling hits.
Thanks in part to revival hits, many songs from the Heisei era continue to be listened to and passed down even as times change.
In this article, we’ll carefully select and introduce some of the coolest tracks from Heisei-era hit songs!
We’ve gathered a variety of cool songs, including classics from bands that represent Japan, tracks from blockbuster films, and songs that leave you feeling refreshed.
You might even find a song that fired you up back in the Heisei days!
Whether you’re from the heart of that generation or new to these tunes, give them a listen and get pumped!
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Cool songs of the Heisei era: hit tracks that energized the times (1–10)
ultra soulB’z
A powerful rock number by B’z that makes you want to throw your fist in the air and shout when you hear the end of the chorus! Since being chosen as the official theme song for the 2001 FINA World Championships in Fukuoka, it has also been used multiple times as walk-up music for professional baseball players, cementing its image as a sports cheer song.
The lyrics ask, “That’s not the limit of what you can do, is it?” and “Nothing has even started yet—this is where the real fight begins, right?”—words that shake you out of any funk and fire you up!
JAMTHE YELLOW MONKEY
THE YELLOW MONKEY is a band that steadfastly upholds its own aesthetic, grounded in glam rock.
Released in February 1996, this song is a heavy rock ballad whose piercing, earnest message resonated widely.
It portrays a sharp gaze toward society and a thirst for life—touching on everyday loneliness and the unease felt toward overseas news coverage.
It was used as the ending theme for NHK’s music program “Pop Jam,” and its coupling track became the theme song for the anime Rurouni Kenshin.
When you want to feel the human vulnerability and quiet prayer that lie behind the dazzling sound, this is a track well worth listening to.
ButterflyKōda Kumi
A dance number sung by Kumi Koda that expresses the strength and beauty of women.
Like a butterfly emerging from a chrysalis and soaring into the sky, the lyrics capture the joy of setting yourself free and living openly.
The sultry vocals and Latin-infused sound make you feel like you’ve become a confident, irresistible woman just by listening.
Released as a single in June 2005, it was used as the theme song for the TBS drama Ai no Gekijo: “Cosme no Mahou 2.” It won the Japan Record Award the same year and became a classic that also contributed to the massive success of her best-of album BEST ~first things~.
Cool songs of the Heisei era: Hit tracks that energized the times (11–20)
Real Thing ShakesB’z
B’z, the rock unit that has built numerous milestones.
Released in May 1996, this work drew attention for its unprecedented format: a one-coin single with no B-side.
Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Watch Out for Us,” it became their 13th consecutive million-selling single, setting a new all-time record at the time.
Produced by Andy Johns, known for his work with Led Zeppelin, it’s a hard rock number performed entirely in English.
The sound woven by Takahiro Matsumoto’s heavy guitar riffs and Koshi Inaba’s soaring high-tone vocals is nothing short of breathtaking.
U.S.A.DA PUMP
This is a DA PUMP song that drew attention with its catchy dance and easy-to-understand lyrics.
Because it appealed to a wide range of generations, it’s even called the biggest hit of 2018.
It’s a cover of a song by the Italian singer Joe Yellow, and while it keeps the feel of the original Eurobeat sound and the resonance of the words in mind, it features unique new lyrics.
It portrays a longing for America and for glamorous culture, and it’s also unique in how it deliberately includes retro names and references.
The song’s charm lies in its lively atmosphere that evokes bright neon lights and the uplifting feeling that suits dancing.
astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN
This is the song that can be said to have brought BUMP OF CHICKEN’s name into the public eye.
It has many covers and tie-ins, and it’s been loved for a long time as one of their signature tracks.
The drama “Tentaikansoku” (Stargazing) was inspired by this song, and the track was also used as an insert song.
Its appeal includes a straightforward band sound with a refreshing atmosphere and the depth created by multiple layered guitar tones.
The lyrics’ storytelling quality is another highlight, evoking the bittersweetness of youth and the unique shifts in emotion.
Like tonight’s moonElefanto Kashimashi
This song is by Elephant Kashimashi, a band known for powerful lyrics that speak to the heart and a commanding vocal presence.
It was written as the theme song for the drama “Because the Moon Shines at Night” and has long been cherished as one of the band’s signature tracks.
The balance between the strong band sound and the gentle tones of acoustic guitar is striking, giving the impression that the lyrics’ message is conveyed directly yet tenderly.
The lyrics seem to confront one’s inner dissatisfaction, evoking long-held aspirations and conveying an energy that gives you the strength to start walking forward again.