Emotional songs from the Heisei era. Nostalgic tracks that really hit you.
We’re introducing some emo songs from the Heisei era that feel a bit nostalgic and hit you right in the feels!
The word “emo” has gone beyond the realm of music and come to be used for expressing all kinds of emotions.
Since its boom around 2018—right before the Reiwa era—some people might associate emo songs with the chill vibe of that time.
Here, we’ve picked out tracks released during the Heisei era that carry that emo feel.
We’re featuring songs that saw a revival through social media, tunes that bring back youthful memories, and tracks that wrap you in a sentimental mood.
Be sure to find the songs that match your own sense of “emo.”
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Emotional Heisei-era songs: Nostalgic, heart-touching tracks (21–30)
Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki
Noriyuki Makihara, celebrated as one of Japan’s genius melody-makers, continues to create numerous heartfelt masterpieces.
Among his works, the song featured on his 1992 album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono” is one that feels perfect for the season of departures and new beginnings.
Though not released as a single, many people may recognize it from appearances such as in NTT East Japan commercials—truly a hidden gem.
The lyrics, which reflect his own image of leaving home to chase his dreams, give courage to those just starting a new chapter in life and to everyone striving far from home.
With minimal leaps in pitch and a comfortable key, it’s easy to sing—making it a great choice for karaoke with friends you haven’t seen in a while, where you can share warm feelings along with nostalgic memories.
No way to sayHamasaki Ayumi
Ayu Hamasaki’s 31st single, by an artist who epitomized the Heisei-era music scene and garnered immense support as a fashion icon.
Released in November 2003, the song was featured as the theme for the TBS variety show “Koisuru Hanikami!” and is also known for helping her achieve an unprecedented third consecutive win at the 45th Japan Record Awards.
The lyrics, which portray the frustration of being unable to honestly express your feelings to someone important, intertwine with the winter chill to evoke a heart-wrenching sense of poignancy.
This grand ballad, resounding with beautiful strings, is sure to bring back memories from that time.
Emo Songs of the Heisei Era: Nostalgic Tracks That Hit You in the Feels (31–40)
Heroineback number
A signature ballad by back number that beautifully captures the crisp winter air and the bittersweet ache of unrequited love.
Even while knowing they can’t be the main character in the other person’s story, the narrator’s pure wish to stay by their side evokes a moving, heart-tightening feeling—even for those without similar experiences.
Produced by Takeshi Kobayashi, the song opens with a striking organ tone, followed by Iyori Shimizu’s warm yet heartrending vocals that gently seep into the soul.
Released in January 2015 as their 11th single, it also drew attention as the CM song for JR East’s “JR SKISKI” campaign featuring Suzu Hirose.
It’s the perfect track to revisit the bittersweet taste of an unattainable love or to listen to on a winter night while thinking of someone special.
cherry blossomKetsumeishi
Throughout the history of J-POP, many artists have released songs themed around “sakura,” and this work, released by Ketsumeishi in February 2005, is one of the most iconic.
Although they are a hip-hop group, their style—blending catchy, singable melodies with emotionally resonant rap—won support from a wide audience.
The lyrics depict memories of a lover who is no longer here, evoked by the sight of cherry blossoms fluttering in the wind.
Even though the scenery remains unchanged, the absence of a loved one creates a sense of loss that tightens the listener’s chest.
Despite having no tie-in, this massive hit sold about 210,000 copies in its first week, and its drama-style music video starring Masato Hagiwara and Emi Suzuki further deepens the song’s world.
It’s also perfect as a BGM for a spring drive when you’re feeling a bit nostalgic about the past.
Night of Osmanthuskinoko teikoku
For those who find themselves feeling inexplicably wistful in autumn, I highly recommend this song by Kinoko Teikoku.
It’s a track from their album “Time Lapse,” released in September 2018, and it stands out as one of the most popular numbers on the record.
Chiaki Sato’s soft, translucent vocals and the sparkling guitar arpeggios resonate beautifully.
It’s a bittersweet yet soothing piece that can make you recall past loves on an autumn night.
Perfect for those solitary evenings when you want to fully sink into an emo mood.
If you are with meKahara Tomomi
This is a moving ballad released in September 2004, marking Tomomi Kahala’s 30th birthday and her step into a new stage.
Its pure and powerful message—that the world shines simply because someone precious is by your side—deeply resonates.
The piece is a Japanese cover of a song by the Korean band Weather Forecast.
A magnificent piano-based arrangement melds with her rich, expressive vocals to gently envelop the listener.
This beloved song, which won the Gold Prize at the 46th Japan Record Awards, is also included on the commemorative album “NAKED.” It’s the perfect track for expressing gratitude to someone special or for quietly filling your heart on a solitary night.
DearestHamasaki Ayumi
A singer-songwriter who reigned at the pinnacle of the J-POP scene as a “charismatic icon for high school girls,” Ayumi Hamasaki released her 24th single in September 2001.
Widely beloved as the ending theme for the TV anime Inuyasha and as a song for Tu-Ka commercials, it is a renowned ballad that won the 43rd Japan Record Award.
Set to a grand melody woven by piano and strings, the lyrics convey a heartfelt resolve to accept parting and loss while continuing to wish for the other person’s happiness.
It’s a gem of a number you’ll want to listen to while thinking of someone dear, as the season begins to carry a hint of winter.