![[Heisei Love Songs] A carefully selected collection of gem-like love songs that continue to be cherished even in the Reiwa era!](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/4wuWJ7GAc2s/sddefault.jpg)
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 handpicked selection of exquisite love songs that continue to be cherished in the Reiwa era! (1–10)
SignMr.Children
Known by the abbreviation “Misu-Chiru,” Mr.Children is a four-piece rock band that has remained at the forefront of the J-pop scene ever since the long-running hit of their 4th single, “CROSS ROAD.” This song is their 26th single.
Written specifically as the theme song for the TV drama Orange Days, its lyrics, which tie in with the drama, are exceptional.
The words, which make you rediscover the time spent with and the presence of someone dear, surely resonated with many listeners.
With a gentle, delicate atmosphere characteristic of Mr.Children that soothes the heart, it is an imperishable classic that hasn’t faded even as the era has shifted from Heisei.
First LoveUtada Hikaru
This is the third single by singer-songwriter Hikaru Utada, who debuted at the young age of 15 and quickly took the J-pop scene by storm with overwhelmingly polished performances.
The song was used as the theme for the TV drama “Majo no Jōken” (The Conditions of a Witch) and was released as a single cut from her debut album “First Love,” which became an unprecedented mega-hit.
Many listeners at the time were likely stunned by her extraordinary talent—lyrics that seemed far beyond her teenage years and the emotional voice that brought them to life.
With its soft, beautiful melody that feels effortlessly comforting, it remains a Heisei-era classic and a karaoke staple.
Song of LoveNEW!Every Little Thing
This work is marked by a gently soul-soothing melody and a sweeping string arrangement.
It’s a gem of a ballad that symbolizes the period when Every Little Thing became a duo and their music gained deeper richness.
Written as the theme song for the 2002 theatrical film Inuyasha: Affections Touching Across Time, it was placed near the end of the album Many Pieces.
Kaori Mochida’s crystal-clear vocals deliver a universal message of peace and love with direct sincerity.
The lyrics, which feel like a prayer for a world without conflict, resonate deeply with the film’s story and light a warm flame of hope in the listener’s heart.
It’s the perfect song for moments of anxiety or quiet nights when you want to calm your mind.
A timeless classic that continues to be loved across generations.
fragileNEW!Every Little Thing
Widely beloved as the theme song for the romance observation show “Ainori,” this renowned ballad remains deeply etched in many people’s memories.
The lyrics woven by Kaori Mochida delicately portray the fragility of human relationships—not limited to romance—and the clumsy hearts that struggle to be honest.
Those earnest feelings resonate in the heart, carried by a gentle yet powerful melody.
Released in January 2001, this work is also a landmark piece as Every Little Thing’s first Oricon No.
1 after becoming a duo.
Included on the classic album “4 FORCE,” it has been cherished for many years.
It’s a number that offers a warm, quiet companionship on nights when you’re troubled by a relationship with someone important or when you want to face your own vulnerabilities.
DEPARTURESglobe
Released in 1996, globe’s “DEPARTURES” is a hallmark love song of the Heisei era, with sales of about 2.288 million copies.
It also drew attention as the CM song for JR East’s “JR SKISKI” campaign.
The song overlays a bittersweet longing for love with snowy landscapes, capturing the hearts of many listeners.
It vividly reflects the deep affection and sense of loss that almost everyone experiences at least once.
It’s the perfect track for looking back on memories with a lover or starting a new romance.
Listening again now, you might discover something new that you didn’t notice when it was first released.
Lion HeartSMAP
This is the 32nd single by SMAP, a five-member idol group whose calls for a reunion have never ceased, even as each member continues to thrive in their own field after the group’s disbandment.
The song was used as the theme for the TV drama “Food Fight,” and its catchy melody set against delicate acoustic guitar tones is unforgettable.
The straightforward, unwavering feelings expressed toward a partner likely captivated a wide range of listeners across generations and genres.
A quintessential Heisei-era love song, it remains a perennial favorite at weddings.
I BELIEVEKahara Tomomi
Among Heisei-era love songs, this track by Tomomi Kahala shines with a special brilliance.
The lyrics capture a powerful resolve to keep seeking the other person’s smile and a determination to believe in love no matter what, resonating with many listeners.
Released in October 1995, it was her second single produced by Tetsuya Komuro and won numerous awards, including the Japan Record Awards’ New Artist prize.
Part of the proceeds was donated to support relief efforts for the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake.
It’s a recommended song not only for those in love, but also for anyone who wants to reaffirm their feelings for someone important.