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 (31–40)
Unrequited loveGENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE
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
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.
Swaying FeelingsZARD
This is ZARD’s signature song, featured in a Pocari Sweat commercial and certified a million-seller.
Even among the tracks that drove the Being boom, this one stands out for its refreshing feel.
The moment the intro starts, you can almost see the dazzling summer sunshine.
Izumi Sakai’s straight, crystalline vocals beautifully capture the thrill of a budding romance, winning the hearts of many.
The wavering emotions of longing for someone—sweet, a little frustrating—make the pure lyrics deeply relatable.
As a timeless classic, it continues to color the youth of countless listeners even today.
I want to hug you.Mr.Children
A gemlike love ballad whose sweet, wistful feelings seep gently into the heart.
Created by Mr.Children in December 1992, the song is marked by its key changes—born from producer Takeshi Kobayashi’s idea—and the tender tone of the piano.
Infused with pure affection and devoted sentiment, its melody exudes a grown-up allure perfect for a late-night lounge.
It was featured as an insert song in the Fuji TV drama “Pure” and used in NTT Docomo commercials, and has been covered by many artists, including Ryuichi Kawamura and Anri.
Its warmth, which seems to envelop deep feelings for a loved one, is part of its charm, and as a song that keeps close company on nights spent with someone special, it has been etched into the hearts of many.
I love you. ~100 Regrets~Sonar Pocket
Even after we part, I can’t stop thinking about you.
I look at our emails and the scenery we once saw together, now on my own, and I feel how I’m still dragging it out.
Even when I try to forget, I still love you.
This is a message song that sings about those lingering feelings of love.
Heisei-Era Unrequited Love Songs: Those Nostalgic Classics (41–50)
The Door to TomorrowI WiSH
Haven’t you ever felt your heart skip a beat in your youth just from a crush’s fleeting expression or small gesture? That gentle feeling, carried by a gentle singing voice, resonates in your heart.
It makes you hope that someday this love will come true.
Unrequited loveSUPER BEAVER
A gem of a love song that portrays the bittersweet unrequited love almost everyone experiences at least once.
In this work by SUPER BEAVER, the emotional band sound seems to directly embody the world of the lyrics.
It’s featured as an insert song in NHK General’s late-night drama “Vanilla na Mainichi,” beautifully aligning with the show’s atmosphere.
Shibuya Ryota’s deeply expressive vocals are truly moving.
It’s a song that stays close to the hearts of those currently facing their feelings for someone.