[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] Carefully selected gems of love songs that continue to be adored in the Reiwa era! (31–40)
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.
Love Story Comes SuddenlyOda Kazumasa
Singer-songwriter Kazumasa Oda, who rose to popularity with his high-toned voice tinged with transience and his playful character, continues to be highly active today.
“Love Story wa Totsuzen ni,” written as the theme song for the quintessential trendy drama Tokyo Love Story, was originally included as the B-side to his sixth single, “Oh! Yeah!” Its airy, urban arrangement still feels timeless even now.
It’s a pop tune whose massive success makes perfect sense—the opening guitar alone brings back iconic scenes from the drama.
ONE LOVEarashi
The 22nd single by Arashi, a five-member idol group hailed as a national sensation whose popularity hasn’t waned even after their activity hiatus in 2020.
Chosen as the theme song for the film “Hana Yori Dango F,” its straightforward, heartfelt lyrics have also made it a popular staple at weddings.
The grand, sweeping melody and arrangement beautifully set the stage for vows from a man to a woman.
Modern yet universal in theme, it’s a gem of a love song that only Arashi could deliver, captivating listeners with its unique charm.
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.
A Little Love SongMONGOL800
A song by MONGOL800, a two‑member rock band from Okinawa, known for its fast-paced sound layered with emotionally stirring lyrics and choral work.
Despite never being released as a single, it has become a well-known number across generations thanks to numerous tie-ins and cover versions.
Its straightforward, youth-punk message is widely loved even in the J-pop scene, where “masterpiece” is often equated with ballads.
Although released in the 2000s, it has surpassed 100 million streams—a quintessential rock tune that can be called MONGOL800’s signature song.
[Heisei-Era Love Songs] A handpicked selection of timeless love songs still adored in the Reiwa era! (41–50)
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.