[Heisei Era] Songs That Hype Up Intro Quizzes: A Collection of Unforgettable Tunes You Can’t Help but Hum

The Door to TomorrowI WiSH

I WiSH “Door to Tomorrow” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

This is I WiSH’s debut single, released in February 2003.

It was used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s romance reality show “Ainori,” and became a massive hit, so many people may associate it with memories from that time.

For many, listening to this song brings back the excitement of a new romance and the courage to take a first step forward.

With its warm piano tones and clear, pure vocals, it’s a classic that perfectly suits graduation and farewell seasons.

Even today, it continues to be covered by various artists and has been performed on the YouTube channel “THE FIRST TAKE,” remaining beloved across generations.

Play it at a class reunion or a get-together with friends, and it’s sure to ignite the room from the very first notes.

ButterflyKimura Kaera

Kaela Kimura “Butterfly” (Official Music Video)

When it comes to classic wedding songs, many people probably think of this one! It’s a signature track by singer-songwriter Kaela Kimura, released in June 2009 as a digital-only single.

It became a massive hit after being featured in a commercial for the wedding magazine Zexy, and Kimura made her first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year.

There’s a story that she wrote it for a close friend’s wedding, and its warm message celebrating a loved one’s new beginning is truly moving.

The piano-centered, festive sound fills listeners’ hearts with happiness.

How about singing it with a friend who’s about to get married the next time you go to karaoke, to share your congratulations?

Odoru-LoopFurederikku

Frederic “Oddloop” Music Video | Frederic “oddloop”

You know those songs that, once you hear them, you just can’t get them out of your head? “Odoruupu,” a track from rock band Frederic’s major-label debut EP “oddloop,” is exactly that kind of brain-looping tune, delivering a unique sound that cuts across genres.

Released in September 2014, the song was featured as the ending theme for the anime “Yamada-kun and the Seven Witches” and used in a UNIQLO web commercial.

Its catchy sound pairs perfectly with the rhythmic performance, making you want to move your body as soon as you listen.

Play it for an intro quiz and that brisk beat will instantly liven up the room.

It’s a comical number that blows away everyday stress—so gather everyone and have fun singing along.

secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE

ZONE “secret base ~What You Gave Me~” MUSIC VIDEO

The moment you hear that striking melody that starts from the chorus, doesn’t it instantly bring back memories of those summer days? Released as a single in August 2001, it’s a timeless classic that continues to be loved as one of ZONE’s signature songs.

Back then, it became a huge hit as the theme song for the TV drama “Kids War 3: Don’t Mess with Me!” A decade later, in 2011, it was covered as the ending theme for the anime “Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day,” stirring up buzz once again.

Its emotional worldview—portraying the friendships and farewells of bygone youth and hope for the future—fills anyone with nostalgia.

The catchy melody is irresistibly pleasant, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for Heisei-era intro quizzes and school reunions.

fragileEvery Little Thing

「fragile」MUSIC VIDEO / Every Little Thing

The moment you hear the intro, many of you might find memories from that time flooding back.

It’s a classic where Kaori Mochida’s clear, translucent voice perfectly matches a world that portrays clumsy love.

Released as a single in January 2001, it became a social phenomenon as the theme song for the smash-hit dating variety show “Ainori.” What’s more, as a double A-side, it also included the ending theme for the anime film “Initial D Third Stage.” It topped the charts for three consecutive weeks, making it one of Every Little Thing’s signature tracks representing the Heisei era.

If you use it in an intro quiz, it’ll instantly hype things up with your friends.

It’s the perfect song for those who want to hum along together at gatherings or parties.

loadTHE toraburyū

THE Toramaru Dragon “Road” FULL Music Video

THE Toraba-Ryu is a rock band centered around George Takahashi, who engages in a wide range of activities as a musician.

Their signature single, released in January 1993, caught fire through cable broadcasting and became a mega-hit.

Chosen as the ending theme for TBS’s “Television Near-Future Laboratory,” the song serves as the first chapter of a grand saga based on a true story submitted by a fan, portraying profound loss and the preciousness of everyday life.

The sentimental intro, beginning with the mournful tone of a blues harp, grips the listener’s heart.

It’s a timeless classic that people of all generations can hum along to, and if you play it for an intro quiz, it’s guaranteed to instantly electrify the room.

Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – Come, Spring

This song was released in October 1994 as Yumi Matsutoya’s 26th single.

Chosen as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Haru yo, Koi” (“Come, Spring”), it played in living rooms every morning and became widely beloved.

Though a pop song, its melody evokes traditional Japanese sensibilities, and its beautiful lyrics—interwoven with classical expressions—resonate deeply.

More than a simple ode to the season, it carries a prayer-like emotion, urging us to step into the future after a long winter.

It is a renowned track also included on the album “THE DANCING SUN.” Its instantly recognizable intro is sure to bring a room together at any gathering, regardless of generation.