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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Unrequited Love Songs of the Heisei Era: Those Nostalgic Classics (1–10)
Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki
Noriyuki Makihara, celebrated as one of Japan’s genius melody-makers, continues to create numerous heartfelt masterpieces.
Among his works, the song featured on his 1992 album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono” is one that feels perfect for the season of departures and new beginnings.
Though not released as a single, many people may recognize it from appearances such as in NTT East Japan commercials—truly a hidden gem.
The lyrics, which reflect his own image of leaving home to chase his dreams, give courage to those just starting a new chapter in life and to everyone striving far from home.
With minimal leaps in pitch and a comfortable key, it’s easy to sing—making it a great choice for karaoke with friends you haven’t seen in a while, where you can share warm feelings along with nostalgic memories.
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.
Never again…BENI
This is a ballad with an R&B-style melody, marked by a poignant blend of piano and strings.
The transparent, airy vocals delicately express emotions swaying between lingering feelings for a former lover and the reality that there’s no going back.
Released in December 2008, it’s BENI’s ninth single and was used as the ending theme for the music program “Hz.” Created as an answer song to Dōzi-T’s “Mou Ichido… (One More Time…),” it’s said that BENI herself shed tears during the music video shoot.
It’s a song that will gently stay by your side on nights when you want to wash away your sorrow with tears.
Heisei-era unrequited love songs: those nostalgic classics (11–20)
Hard To SayCrystal Kay
This track captures the frustration of that delicate “more than friends, less than lovers” distance, sung over a comfortable, groovy beat.
Released as a single in August 2002, it was used as the opening theme for TV Tokyo’s JAPAN COUNTDOWN.
The lyrics portray the struggle of being afraid to take a step forward and risk breaking the current relationship, beautifully fused with a cool, urban R&B sound.
When you can’t be honest with the person you like, why not listen quietly while thinking of them?
spoiled childOtsuka Ai
A masterpiece that portrays the bittersweet heart of a girl who can’t be honest in front of the one she likes.
Released in March 2004 as Ai Otsuka’s third single, this song is also well known for its use in Sato Pharmaceutical’s “Stonarhini S” commercial.
The lyrics capture the feelings of a clumsy girl who puts on a brave face even though she really wants to be affectionate—resonating deeply with the gals who blazed through the Heisei era.
The gentle piano tones and Ai Otsuka’s emotional vocals vividly express the wavering feelings of love.
It’s perfect for when you want to confess your feelings to someone you adore, or when you want to show a touch of endearing charm at karaoke.
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.
Nagisasupittsu
This is a song with a mysterious charm, tinged with the bittersweetness of summer’s end and a dreamlike atmosphere.
The sparkling intro feels like it’s guiding you to the boundary between reality and dreams.
The lyrics penned by Masamune Kusano seem to go beyond a simple love song, encompassing the flow of life and even a profound view of life and death.
It’s filled with poetic beauty that stirs the listener’s imagination.
Released as a Spitz single in September 1996 and included on the classic album “Indigo Chiheisen” (Indigo Horizon), the song also became widely known as the theme for Ezaki Glico’s “Pocky Love Story” commercials.
Why not surrender your heart to the timeless resonance of this masterpiece?