[Heisei Love Songs] A carefully selected collection of gem-like love songs that continue to be cherished even in the Reiwa era!
From bittersweet unrequited-love songs to happy mutual-love tunes, love songs are timelessly filled with masterpieces!
They especially tend to resonate with those in the midst of romance.
In this article, we’re featuring “Heisei Love Songs”—romance tracks that were released and became hits during the Heisei era.
These are all songs that drew a lot of attention at the time, so many of you can probably sing along.
You’ll no doubt find yourself thinking, “I used to listen to this so much!” and sinking into a wave of nostalgia.
They’re sure to make for a lively karaoke session if you go with a “Heisei Love Songs only” theme, don’t you think?
- Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
- A roundup of hit love songs from the ’90s
- Unrequited love songs of the Heisei era. Those nostalgic classic tunes.
- Heisei-era masterpieces. Hit songs that represent the Heisei period.
- Heisei-era heartbreak songs: A roundup of classic tracks from the ’90s to the 2010s
- Recommended for couples! Reiwa-era love songs that warm the heart
- Songs that make you want to fall in love just by listening! Classic love songs recommended for Gen Z
- Bittersweet feelings come rushing back! Recommended love songs for the Yutori generation
- [Heisei Songs] Classic hits from the Heisei era that are popular on Instagram Reels
- From bittersweet tracks to heart-wrenching tunes! Heisei-era unrequited love songs
- Popular Love Songs & Romance Tracks Ranking [2026]
- Songs to give to your lover or someone you like. Love songs devoted wholeheartedly to your boyfriend or girlfriend.
- 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 curated selection of exquisite love songs that continue to be cherished in the Reiwa era! (21–30)
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.
spoiled childOtsuka Ai
A masterpiece that portrays the bittersweet heart of a girl who can’t be honest in front of the one she likes.
Released in March 2004 as Ai Otsuka’s third single, this song is also well known for its use in Sato Pharmaceutical’s “Stonarhini S” commercial.
The lyrics capture the feelings of a clumsy girl who puts on a brave face even though she really wants to be affectionate—resonating deeply with the gals who blazed through the Heisei era.
The gentle piano tones and Ai Otsuka’s emotional vocals vividly express the wavering feelings of love.
It’s perfect for when you want to confess your feelings to someone you adore, or when you want to show a touch of endearing charm at karaoke.
LOVE 2000hitomi
Debuting in 1994, hitomi brought a fresh breeze to the Japanese music scene from the late 1990s into the early 2000s.
Among her works, the 2000 classic “LOVE 2000” was chosen as the theme song for renowned programs and events, and even after two decades it was self-remade as “LOVE 2020,” continuing to be cherished by many fans.
At the heart of the song lies the power to discern “true love” and the courage to be honest with one’s own feelings.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to reexamine their views on love.
loveHoshino Gen
The ninth single by singer-songwriter Gen Hoshino, whose exceptional pop sensibility, acting-honed expressiveness, and distinctive worldview have earned him support from a wide range of listeners.
Chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “We Married as a Job!” (Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu), the track features an addictive arrangement that combines a chord progression evocative of Black music with a melody based on the Japanese yonanuki (pentatonic) scale.
In today’s diverse landscape of romantic relationships, its lyrics—applicable to any conditions or partners—likely resonated with and won support from many listeners.
It’s a global love song that, in 2016, the late Heisei era, captured the sense of an era in transition.
Stop this nightJUJU
That the words “I love you” could sound sadder than “goodbye”…
JUJU, a singer who resonates with many women, released this as her 15th single in November 2010.
It also drew attention as the theme song for the drama Guilty: The Woman Who Made a Pact with the Devil, starring Miho Kanno.
This R&B-tinged ballad conveys a heartfelt wish to stop time even as a breakup feels inevitable.
The dramatic strings and her velvety vocals are sure to bring tears.
If you can’t let go of a love that’s ended, why not try listening to this song for a little emotional detox?
I like you.Shimizu Shota
A cell phone suddenly rings on a sleepless night.
Starting from that everyday moment, this is an unrequited love song that makes your chest ache.
The protagonist is afraid to take a step forward for fear of breaking the relationship, yet can’t suppress the overflowing feelings.
Shota Shimizu’s sweet, heartrending vocals gently cradle a lovestruck heart.
Released as a single in December 2009, it’s also included on the album Journey.
At the time, it topped mobile distribution charts, capturing the hearts of many young listeners.
It’s a song to play when your feelings for someone are about to spill over, or when you need a little courage.
planetariumOtsuka Ai
A signature song by Ai Otsuka that beautifully portrays a heartrending love.
Released in December 2005, it drew attention as an insert song for the TBS drama Boys Over Flowers.
While reminiscing about a lost love, its forward-looking stance resonates deeply with many listeners.
The piano’s timbre and her clear, translucent vocals gently envelop the aching emotions.
Also included on the album LOVE COOK and popular at karaoke, this piece is perfect not only for those troubled by love, but also for anyone wishing to reflect on memories with someone dear.
Surrender yourself to Ai Otsuka’s voice and let it awaken the feelings sleeping in your heart.