Unrequited love songs of the Heisei era. Those nostalgic classic tunes.

Pure Love SongShonan no Kaze

Shonan no Kaze “Junrenka” MUSIC VIDEO (Original ver.)

This is one of Shonan no Kaze’s signature love songs, a heartfelt tale of a clumsy man’s unwavering devotion that really hits home.

Many people may have discovered them through this track.

From the everyday happiness of being moved by a lover’s home-cooked meal, to the small misunderstandings that create distance, and finally to the raw realization of one’s own immaturity and the renewed appreciation of the person who matters—this straightforward story resonates deeply.

Released in March 2006 as their fifth single, it achieved an astonishing 25 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Oricon karaoke chart.

Blending reggae’s fiery energy with a catchy pop melody, the song is perfect both as a dedication to someone special at a wedding and for belting out with friends at karaoke.

Unrequited loveGENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE

GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE / Unrequited Love

A coupling track to the debut single “BRAVE IT OUT,” released in November 2012, and also included on the classic album “GENERATIONS.” When you like someone, even the smallest reactions can weigh on your mind, right? This song beautifully captures the heart caught in a frustrating struggle—so wrapped up in the other person that you can’t take that first step.

The fresh vocals from GENERATIONS at the time of their debut also invite empathy, and their pure resonance is truly moving.

If you’re in the midst of a love you can’t confess, this track will stay close to your heart.

The words penned by their senior, EXILE ATSUSHI, gently permeate with the ache of a bittersweet love.

two peopleaiko

aiko - “Futari” music video

A work that beautifully portrays a brave, self-restrained love telling itself, “I’m glad I realized it before I fell any deeper,” is the song released in March 2008 by singer-songwriter aiko.

Set to an up-tempo, exhilarating sound, you can picture the protagonist getting elated and crushed by the tiniest gestures of the person they like.

Even while knowing that person’s gaze is directed at someone else, the aching sadness of feelings that won’t stop comes through vividly.

The song was a hit, reaching No.

3 on the Oricon weekly chart, later included on the acclaimed album “Himitsu,” and it resonated with many as the theme for a Hoyu commercial.

Even when you know it’s a love that won’t come true, you can’t help but think of them.

This is a number that gently stays by the side of anyone struggling with such a complicated unrequited love.

I MISS YOULINDBERG

I MISS YOU

This is a refreshing youth love song by LINDBERG that sings about the bittersweet feelings of unrequited love.

From springtime encounters to winter farewells, the evolving emotions of love are expressed through Maki Watase’s clear vocals and simple lyrics.

Released in October 1991 as their ninth single, it served as the lead single for the mini-album “EXTRA FLIGHT.” This track remains one of LINDBERG’s signature songs, beloved by many fans.

It’s especially recommended when you want to savor a breezy mood in the season of love, particularly from spring to summer.

While evoking the ache of unrequited love, it’s a song that will resonate in your heart and lift your spirits.

Me too,YUTORI-SEDAI

YUTORI-SEDAI – Me Too, [Official Music Video] (Theme Song for the Drama “I’m Being Toyed With by a Younger Virgin Guy”)

A ballad that poignantly portrays an unrequited love, set to the aching timbre of a piano.

Upon learning that their crush is dating a close friend, the protagonist carefully weaves their feelings as they have no choice but to give up while keeping their emotions hidden.

The more they think about the person they love, the more the pain intensifies—an experience many share as a bittersweet memory that lingers in the heart.

Included on YUTORI-SEDAI’s major first EP “blanket,” released in April 2025, this song was also chosen as the ending theme for MBS’s Drama Tokku series “I’m Being Toyed With by a Younger Virgin.” It’s a track that gently accompanies the hearts of those in one-sided love, where simply thinking of someone makes your chest tighten.

My name is Unrequited Loveindigo la End

indigo la End "The Name Is Unrequited Love"

This is a song by indigo la End that portrays a heartrending unrequited love beginning with love at first sight.

Set to a lively mid-tempo track crafted by Enon Kawatani in January 2023, it sings of the protagonist’s complex emotions after falling for someone of the same sex.

While feeling the pain of social prejudice and unspoken pressures, the story tightens the chest as the protagonist suppresses their own feelings for the sake of the other person’s happiness.

It’s a song that will resonate with those who, having fallen in love, lose sight of themselves yet can do nothing but carry those feelings, as well as those struggling with a love they can’t tell anyone about.

You’re unfair, you know.riria.

riria. / Sneaky You. [Music Video]

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.