A Must-See for the Heisei Generation: Nostalgic Songs That Were Popular in the Heisei Era
It’s only been a few years since the Reiwa era began, but trends like “Heisei-era clichés” are already popular.
Among them, music is especially loved as nostalgic oldies.
So this time, we’re introducing “classic Heisei-era songs we recommend to people born in the Heisei era”!
The Heisei period was a time when many new music genres were born, with club music—especially UK garage and dubstep—undergoing major changes.
In addition to dance music and mainstream J-pop, we’ve also picked standout tracks from lesser-known genres like R&B and jazz rock.
If you were born in the Heisei era, be sure to check them out!
- Emotional songs from the Heisei era. Nostalgic tracks that really hit you.
- Heisei-era masterpieces. Hit songs that represent the Heisei period.
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
- A collection of nostalgic hits from the Heisei era: Let’s look back at iconic songs from the 1990s and 2000s.
- Songs from the Heisei retro era that will get any generation excited! Timeless tracks you’ll want to listen to now.
- Cool songs of the Heisei era. Hit tracks that energized the times.
- Heisei Song Collection: Iconic Hits That Colored the ’90s and 2000s
- [Heisei Love Songs] A carefully selected collection of gem-like love songs that continue to be cherished even in the Reiwa era!
- Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
- Nothing but iconic hits that defined an era! 2000s classics popular on TikTok
- From emotional tracks to exhilarating tunes! Heisei-era youth songs
- A revival hit driven by social media! Heisei-era masterpieces that are resonating with Gen Z today
- Heisei-era masterpieces: Easy to sing! Carefully selected songs recommended for karaoke choices!
[A Must-See for the Heisei Generation] Nostalgic Songs That Were Popular in the Heisei Era (21–30)
CHE.R.RYYUI
Released in 2007, this signature spring song by YUI portrays the fluttery feelings of a one-sided crush through the lens of flip-phone email exchanges.
The protagonist’s heart leaps at emoji-filled messages from their crush, frets over when to reply, and, unable to play it cool, answers right away—capturing the pure sincerity of a girl in love.
Set to light acoustic guitar, the bittersweet emotions are sung in a charming, cute way.
The track drew attention as the CM song for KDDI’s “LISMO!” and debuted at No.
2 on the Oricon chart.
It’s also included on the album “CAN’T BUY MY LOVE.” Perfect for when you want to reminisce about a gentle first love or get excited chatting about youthful memories with friends.
Peach-Colored Unrequited LoveMatsuura Aya
Released in February 2002 as Aya Matsuura’s fifth single, this song was featured in Shiseido’s “Tissera Mune-Kyun Peach” commercial, which also drew attention for Matsuura’s own appearance.
It peaked at No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart, sold over 220,000 copies, and was included on the album T.W.O.
The lyrics liken the flutter of unrequited love to a peach-pink hue, and the bouncy melody that kicks off with a shouted call is instantly memorable—just listening to it lifts your spirits.
It’s the perfect track for getting hyped at karaoke with friends after school or for those heart-pounding moments when you’re nursing a crush.
[A Must-See for Those Born in the Heisei Era] Nostalgic Songs That Were Popular in the Heisei Period (31–40)
Like tonight’s moonElefanto Kashimashi
This song portrays a poignant longing for lost days and love.
Showcasing Hiroji Miyamoto’s distinctive voice and passionate performance, it was released in July 1997.
Created as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Because the Moon Shines at Night,” it marked Elephant Kashimashi’s first drama tie-in.
It reached the top 10 on the Oricon charts and is cherished by many as one of the band’s signature works.
It’s perfect for those who want to look up at the summer night sky and reflect on days gone by.
All of the YouthFujifaburikku
A signature song by Fujifabric that captures the fleeting feel of summer’s end.
Released in November 2007 as their 10th single, it was included on the album TEENAGER.
Inspired by the fireworks at Lake Kawaguchi in Yamanashi, the hometown of Masahiko Shimura, the lyrics portray the confusion that comes with changes in oneself and one’s surroundings as the seasons turn.
In 2013 it was featured as an insert song in the drama SUMMER NUDE, and in 2018 it was used in a commercial, becoming a classic that remains in many people’s hearts.
With poignant lyrics and a melody that sinks into your chest, it’s the perfect track for looking back on your youth.
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.
Heavy rotationAKB48
Released as their 17th single in 2010, this song became a national hit as one of AKB48’s signature tracks, something you’d hear almost daily on karaoke and TV.
Its cute lyrics, set to a brisk rock tempo, sing honestly about a straightforward crush, capturing the fluttery excitement of love that everyone experiences at least once.
The way it surges from the chorus is irresistibly catchy, making you want to sing along, and it’s designed so friends and groups can enjoy the chorus and dance together.
It was heavily aired as the CM song for UHA Mikakutou’s “Puccho,” and in karaoke it set a record by ranking No.
1 for a total of 81 weeks in 2012.
It’s the perfect number for sharing that love-struck feeling with everyone or getting the whole room hyped at karaoke.
Chocolate DiscoPerfume
This song, with its shimmering synth sound and catchy, repetitive phrases, is included on the single “Fan Service [sweet],” released in February 2007.
It’s a poppy electro track that delivers a Valentine’s Day confession of love, lightly portraying the inner worlds of a calculating girl and an expectant boy.
The refined production by Yasutaka Nakata and the three members’ clear, transparent vocals make for an exceptionally pleasing combination.
It was featured in commercials for Toyota and for sweets, and today it’s cherished every year as a Valentine’s Day staple.
Sing it at karaoke with friends and you’re sure to get the crowd going—dance moves included.
It’s the perfect song for when you want to recall those sweet-and-sour feelings or lift your spirits.