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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!

Cool songs of the Heisei era: hit tracks that energized the times (21–30)

MADE IN JAPANV6

V6 / MADE IN JAPAN(YouTube Ver.)
MADE IN JAPANV6

A dance number marked by adrenaline-pumping Eurobeat where synthesizers and guitars fiercely intertwine.

Carrying the momentum of their debut, this track channels the boundless energy of Japanese youth.

Released in February 1996, it reached a wide audience as the image song for Fuji TV’s 27th Spring High School Volleyball tournament.

It debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon weekly chart and became a hit, selling around 459,000 copies.

Another draw is its structure, where Masayuki Sakamoto’s cool rap shines amid the passionate sound.

It’s the kind of song that seems to unleash limitless power when you’re charging toward a big goal or need to fire yourself up.

S.A.K.U.R.A.Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE / S.A.K.U.R.A.
S.A.K.U.R.A.Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

While incorporating a delicate sense of Japanese aesthetics, this song also carries a powerful energy.

Released in March 2014 as a single by Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS, it overlays the transience of cherry blossoms with the brilliance of life.

The innovative sound blends traditional Japanese instruments with dance beats, and its melody vividly paints beautiful scenes.

The track was also selected as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “Onegai! Ranking” in March and is included on the album PLANET SEVEN.

It’s a perfect song for the spring season when new beginnings start, as well as for graduation and farewell moments—be sure to give it a listen when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

Cool songs from the Heisei era. Hit songs that energized the times (31–40)

VINUSHKADIR EN GREY

DIR EN GREY is a visual kei rock band, and one of their signature songs is “VINUSHKA.” The track served as the lead single from the album UROBOROS and was later used as the theme for the Japanese trailer of the film Survival of the Dead.

The title “VINUSHKA” means “sin,” and the lyrics depict the darkness and shadowy aspects of the human psyche, with imagery that evokes the atomic bomb.

At roughly nine and a half minutes, it’s a substantial, immersive listen.

The somewhat provocative music video is also noteworthy.

B-BOYismRHYMESTER

When it comes to essential figures in Japan’s hip-hop scene, RHYMESTER is a name you can’t leave out.

彼らの評判を確固たるものにしたトラックは “B-BOYイズム”(B-BOY-ism)だ。

It’s included on the album Respect.

As the title suggests, the theme is “what a B-BOY should be,” and the song expresses their pride and stance.

It’s not just talk—their rhymes and flow give the message real persuasive power, which is why it’s regarded as a classic.

It remains a track that influences countless heads to this day, so be sure to check it out.

SOUL SCREAMhachi to chou

Bees and Butterflies / SOUL SCREAM [Official Music Video]
SOUL SCREAMhachi to chou

A landmark of Japanese hip-hop, “Hachi to Chou” (The Bee and the Butterfly).

This track by the hip-hop unit SOUL SCREAM is included on their album The positive gravity – An to Hint.

Its source material is The Painter (Who Lives in the Cellar), crafted by American singer-songwriter Paul Parrish.

While retaining the gentle atmosphere of the sampled original, the song showcases powerful rap.

In conclusion

We introduced some cool songs that were hits in the Heisei era—how did you like them? There were plenty of songs that people of all ages often sing at karaoke, right? From the many Heisei hit songs, find your favorite cool tracks to recharge your energy and lift your spirits!