Heisei-era masterpieces. Hit songs that represent the Heisei period.
The Heisei era, which lasted 31 years from 1989 to 2019.
From the 1990s—the golden age of J-POP that began at the end of the Showa era—through the 2010s, when listening habits changed and new artists emerged one after another, countless hit songs were born!
In this article, we’ll introduce the classics that have been loved for many years as well as memorable hits from the later Heisei years—songs that colored the Heisei era.
It’s a wonderful playlist full of nostalgic tracks that will bring back memories just by listening.
Be sure to check out these masterpieces that should be passed down in the Reiwa era and beyond!
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- Emotional songs from the Heisei era. Nostalgic tracks that really hit you.
- Cool songs of the Heisei era. Hit tracks that energized the times.
- Songs from the Heisei retro era that will get any generation excited! Timeless tracks you’ll want to listen to now.
- [Heisei Love Songs] A carefully selected collection of gem-like love songs that continue to be cherished even in the Reiwa era!
- A Must-See for the Heisei Generation: Nostalgic Songs That Were Popular in the Heisei Era
- [Japanese Music] Masterpieces of 2000s Pop: A roundup of hit songs from 00s J-POP
- Old songs from the Showa to Heisei eras: a collection of timeless classics loved across generations
- [Heisei Songs] Classic hits from the Heisei era that are popular on Instagram Reels
- A revival hit driven by social media! Heisei-era masterpieces that are resonating with Gen Z today
- Heisei-era graduation songs roundup: iconic youth anthems from the ’90s to the 2010s
- Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
Heisei Masterpieces: Hit Songs That Define the Heisei Era (71–80)
SakurazakaFukuyama Masaharu
The 15th single, released in 2000, is a song that was used as the theme for the “Mirai Nikki V” segment of the variety show “U-nan no Hontoko!”.
Born from Masaharu Fukuyama’s own experience of heartbreak, the piece portrays lingering feelings for a former lover while still wishing for their happiness.
The lyrics, which intertwine the season of cherry blossoms with parting, resonate even more deeply when heard during spring, a time of new beginnings.
Achieving a record-breaking 2,299,000 in cumulative sales, this song stands as one of the Heisei era’s quintessential “sakura” songs—one that anyone who has experienced a breakup can relate to.
One Lovearashi
A song whose straightforward vow of love resonates in the heart, carried by a grand melody.
Released in June 2008 as Arashi’s 22nd single, it was selected as the theme song for the blockbuster film “Boys Over Flowers F (Final),” starring group member Jun Matsumoto.
From among all the people in the world, choosing just one and pledging eternal love—the pure and powerful message warmly embraces every listener.
Now a staple wedding song, it may be the perfect choice for expressing your feelings to the one you love on that special wedding day.
One million “I love you”sRake
A signature number by singer-songwriter Rake that sings of overflowing feelings far too great to be conveyed by the words “I love you” alone.
Many people will surely think, “Ah, that song!” as soon as they hear the chorus.
This work delivers a love so immense it’s almost frustrating to put into words, carried by the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar and a rhythm that makes you want to hum along.
Released in March 2011, the track became a long-running hit, making history on the USEN chart with an unprecedented 24 consecutive weeks in the Top 30.
Heard in numerous tie-ins—such as a Yokohama Tires commercial and as the theme song for the film ‘Ganbappe! Hula Girls’—it truly stands as one of the defining songs of 2011.
It’s a timeless classic, perfect for confessions to someone special or for weddings.
VenusTakkī & Tsubasa
It’s a signature song by Tackey & Tsubasa, notable for lyrics that liken a beloved person to a goddess of beauty and passionately woo her.
The catchy rhythm that makes you want to move and the dazzling sound give it the quintessential J-pop dance tune vibe.
Released in January 2006 as their sixth single, the track was also used in a commercial for a mobile music download site and became the group’s best-selling release.
You can feel their dedication as performers in the fact that Tsubasa Imai created the choreography himself so that fans could dance along.
HappinessAI
AI, whose powerful, heart-punching vocals have earned her popularity across a wide audience, is widely known for this song being used as Coca-Cola’s Christmas campaign song for five years starting in 2011.
It’s a number packed with happiness that makes anyone who listens feel joyful.
Released in December 2011, the track is also included on the acclaimed album “INDEPENDENT.” Its positive message—that even in tough times, someone’s smile can bring happiness to those around them—resonates deeply when carried by her soulful voice.
The lyrics, which wish for the happiness of loved ones, are encouraging when you’re feeling down, and when you’re happy, they seem to amplify that joy.
It’s a happy song I’d love for you to share with someone special or someone who needs a pick-me-up, and listen to together.
Everyday, KachushaAKB48
If you want to instantly liven up a karaoke session and get into a summer mood, how about picking the song that AKB48 turned into a massive hit in 2011? It’s a quintessential idol tune with a pleasant melody and straightforward lyrics that evoke a sunlit seaside.
The song depicts a bittersweet crush—being drawn to the innocent moment of taking off a headband and wishing to spend time together again next year.
Released in May 2011 as their 21st single, it also became familiar through its tie-in with Asahi Soft Drinks’ “WONDA.” One of the great things about AKB48’s songs is how they energize any party when sung.
Why not try this easy-to-sing, refreshing, summer-memory companion of a number?
Labyrinth Love Songarashi
It’s the theme song for the drama “Nazotoki wa Dinner no Ato de,” starring Sho Sakurai.
The slightly classical, glamorous sound with striking strings perfectly matches the drama’s worldview, where unraveling mysteries intertwines with the course of romance.
This song conjures the image of a dependable man who, even in a maze-like situation where the future is unclear, firmly takes the hand of someone important and leads them toward the light.
Released in November 2011 as Arashi’s 36th single, it became their 32nd work to top the Oricon weekly chart.
Filled with both strength and tenderness that can blow away anxious feelings, this wonderful track will surely give you a push when you’re stuck or need the courage to take a step forward.