[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)
May it be filled with kindnessJUJU
This is a rock ballad by JUJU released in 2009.
As the theme song for Nissan’s Cube commercial, it touched the hearts of many.
The lyrics express deep gratitude to the person who taught the singer the meaning of life at times when, amid unchanging days, she felt she might lose sight of what truly matters.
JUJU’s powerful yet delicate vocals convey a straightforward resolve to keep loving, even when apart.
It’s a timeless song that gently stays by your side when you want to renew your feelings for someone important or when you need a little warmth in your heart.
Love SongGReeeeN
This is the third single by GReeeeN, a four-member male vocal group that is likely the most commercially successful among artists who keep their appearances private.
Known as one of GReeeeN’s signature songs, it has been tied in with numerous music shows, variety programs, and commercials, and has been covered by various artists.
Its straightforward lyrics that resonate with the importance of one’s partner, combined with a catchy melody, have surely moved many listeners.
Featuring GReeeeN’s characteristic wide-ranging choral work and excellent rap, it’s a timeless number that hasn’t lost its shine even in the Reiwa era.
[Heisei Love Songs] Carefully selected gems of love songs that continue to be adored in the Reiwa era! (31–40)
God of RomanceHirose Kōmi
A massive hit that stands as Kohmi Hirose’s signature song—“the Queen of Winter”—and continues to be sung as a winter staple even in the Reiwa era! Released in 1993, this gem of a love song expresses a woman’s honest longing for her ideal partner through playful lyrics, a catchy melody, and Hirose’s distinctive high-tone vocals.
It also left a strong impression as the theme for the ski equipment store Alpen’s commercials, cementing its image as a “winter classic.” But if you take a close look at the lyrics, it’s actually not themed around winter at all! Even so, when this song starts playing, you can’t help but feel that winter has arrived—perhaps a testament to the mysterious power of music.
LA LA LA Love SongKubota Toshinobu
“LA・LA・LA LOVE SONG” is, without exaggeration, a song that everyone has heard at least once, regardless of gender or generation.
Released in 1996 by singer-songwriter Toshinobu Kubota, this song remains a timeless classic love song that never loses its luster.
His gentle, soaring vocals over an R&B rhythm can double—no, triple—the sweet feelings of being in love as you listen.
By the way, it’s also a top recommendation for men to sing at karaoke when they want to impress someone they like!
Longing, poignancy, and strength of heartShinohara Ryōko
Ryoko Shinohara, who is active as an actress, released “Itoshisa to Setsunasa to Kokorozuyosa to” in 1994 while she was a member of the idol group Tokyo Performance Doll.
Produced by Tetsuya Komuro, who was at the height of his popularity at the time, the single achieved double million sales.
In 2022, the two teamed up again for the first time in 28 years to release a rearranged version of “Itoshisa to Setsunasa to Kokorozuyosa to.”
LOVE LOVE LOVEDREAMS COME TRUE
The duo DREAMS COME TRUE, a band that captivates fans with pop songs showcasing an overwhelmingly powerful, almost un-Japanese level of vocal prowess, released this as their 18th single.
The track was used as both the main theme and an insert song for the TV drama “Say You Love Me,” and was issued as a double A-side single together with “Arashi ga Kuru,” which also served as an insert song.
Overflowing love packed into its brief lyrics and the richly layered choral work surely gave courage to many listeners.
In 1998, it was even included in high school music textbooks, making it a gem of a ballad worthy of being called a quintessential classic of the Heisei era.
KanadeSukima Suichi
This is the second single by the musical duo Sukima Switch, who continue to captivate fans with songs themed around being true to oneself and a sound that constantly evolves through ongoing experimentation.
Featured as an insert song in the film “Rough,” it became a long-running hit, supported by numerous tie-ins and cover versions.
Centered on the theme of parting, its lyrics will feel vividly real to anyone who has experienced heartbreak.
With a bittersweet yet beautiful melody that pierces the heart, it’s a beloved Heisei-era ballad and a karaoke staple.