Unrequited love songs of the Heisei era. Those nostalgic classic tunes.
For those who want to listen to Heisei-era unrequited love songs, I’ve picked out some classics!
When you’re in love, these songs can lift your spirits or gently accompany you through the tough moments.
That’s true no matter the generation of the music.
If you’re especially curious about unrequited love songs from the Heisei era, be sure to check out the tracks on this list.
You might find the song you’ve been looking for—or discover a new favorite!
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- A heart-wrenching story that tightens the chest! A Showa-era unrequited love song
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Heisei-Era Unrequited Love Songs: Those Nostalgic Classics (71–80)
I’ll wait.amin
It’s a classic anthem of unrequited love.
I believe a true masterpiece is one you can keep listening to unchanged, no matter how many years pass.
The song is about a girl with a one-sided crush who can’t get the boy to notice her, yet keeps waiting for him.
The singing style evokes the Showa era, and you can’t help but hum along.
Leading someone on is a serious offense!arekunn
This song depicts the heartache of an unrequited crush tossed around by someone’s teasing behavior, all through a comedic lens.
Its lyrics capture a racing heartbeat, affection for the other person, and mounting frustration, resonating deeply with listeners.
Showcasing Are-kun’s unique expressive style, the track gained buzz after its September 2023 release, especially on social media, with numerous TikTok videos using parts of the song.
It’s recommended for anyone troubled by a crush’s mixed signals or feeling the frustration of unrequited love.
The relatable lyrics will encourage and uplift you.
You’re unfair, you know.riria.
This song poignantly expresses the feelings of unrequited love.
Released in December 2024, it is also included on the album “Kiseki,” out in January 2025.
With a clear, airy vocal that paints wintry Christmas scenes, the track features a warm arrangement incorporating piano and strings.
The lyrics convey pure emotions toward a one-sided crush, something teens in particular are likely to relate to.
It’s a perfect winter song for elevating a romantic mood.
Tokimeki Part 1supittsu
This is a Spitz song that sings of aching love set to a refreshing melody.
Chosen as the theme song for the film “Mizu wa Umi ni Mukatte Nagareru” (Water Flows Toward the Sea), it depicts the flutter of first love and the candid feelings of young people in love.
Even though it hurts more each time they meet, they want to see each other again—Masamune Kusano’s gentle yet resolute vocals convey those complex emotions.
Included on the album “Himitsu Studio,” released in May 2023, this track is perfect for times when unrequited love shakes your confidence or when you need a boost of courage.
Why not me?Misaka Saki
This song delicately portrays the bittersweet feelings of unrequited love.
They were close as friends, but before he knew it, romantic feelings had begun to grow.
Those complex emotions of a boy are expressed through a clear, transparent singing voice.
Released in February 2021 as the theme song for ABEMA’s popular romance reality show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita” (Today, I Fell in Love), it resonated with many listeners.
It’s a perfect track for anyone struggling with their feelings for a crush.
Listening to this song might give you the courage to take a step forward.
I want you to tell me you love me.Oku Hanako
This is a song by Hanako Oku, one of the queens of unrequited love songs of the Heisei era.
Precisely because it’s a single-minded, one-sided love, the other person’s kindness feels painful, cruel, and agonizing.
Even if I have to lie, I’d be fine just being a friend so I can stay by their side—but it still carries a wish for them to at least turn toward me a little.
Unrequited loveOku Hanako
A smash-hit ballad by Okudaka Hana, an artist whose warm, unforgettable vocals and distinctive musical worldview are loved across generations.
This classic beautifully captures the bittersweet feelings unique to unrequited love—the simple longing to be with the person you adore.