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!
- Heisei Song Collection: Iconic Hits That Colored the ’90s and 2000s
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
- 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-era masterpieces. Hit songs that represent the Heisei period (31–40)
Papillon ~papillon~Shimatani Hitomi
Hitomi Shimatani’s third single, released in February 2001.
It caused a major stir as a Japanese-language cover of Janet Jackson’s worldwide hit, and became the catalyst for Shimatani’s breakthrough in the pop scene.
While preserving the original’s sophisticated rhythm, the lyrics portray a butterfly freely dancing across the skies of Asia, giving listeners a liberating sense of setting off on an exotic journey.
The phrases interwoven with words from various languages leave a pleasant, oriental resonance that lingers in the ears.
It’s an energetic dance number perfect for livening up a karaoke session or for refreshing yourself when you want a brief escape from everyday life.
A Lonely ToothbrushSakuraba Yuuichirou
A song released under the name Yuichiro Sakuraba, the character played by Tomoya Nagase in a TV drama.
Produced by Tsunku♂, this track overlays the singer’s loneliness onto a single toothbrush left by the sink, weaving a heartrending number about the lingering attachment to a lover who has left.
It was included on TOKIO’s single “Message / Hitoribocchi no Haburashi,” released in May 2001, and became a major hit as an in-show song for the drama Muko Dono.
Even if he acts tough, he’s crying inside—the painful vulnerability of a man comes through all too clearly.
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.
I’m here saying nothingYaita Hitomi
Singer-songwriter Hitomi Yaida, affectionately known as “Yaiko,” scored a string of hits right after her debut.
This work, her third major-label single released in January 2001, peaked at No.
4 on the Oricon chart and was selected as a Power Play on the music program AX MUSIC-FACTORY.
Its sound, which fuses acoustic guitar with Irish trad, carries a nostalgic yet fresh resonance.
It’s also known for being covered by Swedish singer Meja—a timeless song you’ll want to listen to alone on a wistful night.
save your dreamKahara Tomomi
Tomomi Kahala, who helped define an era in the ’90s under the production of Tetsuya Komuro, is renowned for her clear, soaring high notes and earnest expressiveness.
Released in October 1996, this song became her first to top the Oricon Singles Chart—a true milestone.
It was also featured in a commercial for Lotte’s Sasa chocolate, and many people likely remember it alongside its stylish visuals.
The lyrics, which weave in English, convey a strong determination to protect one’s dreams.
It’s the perfect track for moments when you want to fire yourself up.
Give it a listen and relive the brilliance of those days.
Masterpieces of the Heisei Era. Hit songs that represent the Heisei period (41–50)
Body And SoulSPEED
Back then, the mere idea of elementary schoolers making a major debut was shocking.
Their vocals and dancing had a power you wouldn’t expect from grade school and junior high students.
I remember my heart racing every time SPEED appeared on TV.
Starting with their 1996 debut “Body And Soul,” I enjoyed watching them gradually grow up.
Even now as adults, their unwavering vocal prowess is truly overwhelming.
beetle (specifically, a rhinoceros beetle)aiko
In Kansai where I live, I used to support aiko as she worked hard aiming for a major debut.
I believe that earnest attitude of hers hasn’t changed even now.
When Kabutomushi became a hit, I was truly happy, and I’m also very glad she became one of the defining artists of the Heisei era.
I’m looking forward to her success in the Reiwa era as well.