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 (51–60)
Thinking of youKEISUKE
Set to a bittersweet yet refreshing melody, this acoustic track by KEISUKE delicately portrays the emotional swings of unrequited love.
The gentle yet powerful vocals bring to life the many feelings unique to one-sided love: quietly watching over someone while hiding your affection, the ache of being unable to confess, and the complex emotions you feel toward yourself for falling in love.
Released in November 2019, it has surpassed 5 million views on YouTube.
It’s a song that gently stays by the side of anyone caught in the midst of a tender, aching romance—overflowing with feelings yet unable to take that crucial step forward.
If only I could just come to hate you.Ryohei Ab
A pop song that tugs at the heart with the ache of being unable to confess your feelings even while carrying love inside.
Featured on the album “THE BEST 2020 – 2025,” releasing in January 2025, this track pairs warm, rich production with emotional lyrics that gently support anyone struggling with love.
Ryohei Abe’s delicate vocals and expressive delivery resonate deeply with those holding on to fragile feelings.
The song carefully portrays the frustration of being unable to let go of your emotions while agonizing over the distance between you and the one you like.
If you haven’t been able to tell that special someone how you feel, you’ll surely relate.
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.
Mutual loveaiko
From the flutter in your chest the moment you fall in love to the ache of feelings that don’t reach the other person, Aiko’s crystal-clear voice resonates deep in the heart.
Delicately portraying the emotions of longing for someone, this work—released in May 2024 and spotlighted as the theme song for a popular animated film—has struck a chord with many listeners.
Aiko’s vocals and the film’s world blend beautifully, further enhancing the piece’s allure.
It’s the perfect song for those experiencing unrequited love or looking to boost their motivation in romance.
Why not listen to this track and find the courage to share your feelings?
Unrequited Love Songs of the Heisei Era: Those Nostalgic Classics (61–70)
Unrequited lovemiwa
With a relaxed tempo, this unrequited love song conveys an overwhelming sense of sorrow, singing of the pain and sadness of harboring feelings for someone whose love will never be returned.
Though love is supposed to be free, it expresses the doubt of whether one is even allowed to fall for that person.
wishsumika
A song by sumika that portrays the bittersweet feelings of unrequited love and hope for the future.
The protagonist’s inner struggle—wishing happiness for the one they love while being unable to suppress their own feelings—is especially striking.
Released in December 2019 as the theme song for the drama “Ossan’s Love -in the sky-,” it reached No.
6 on the Oricon charts.
The music video has also been viewed over 20 million times, capturing the hearts of many.
It’s recommended not only for those wrestling with love, but also for anyone who wants to cherish the feeling of wishing someone else happiness.
Why not listen to this piece and face the “wish” that lies within you?
I’m really sorry.≠ME
This song beautifully captures the ache of unrequited love.
The lyrics convey the struggle of staying just friends while being unable to confess your feelings.
Even knowing they’re drawn to someone else, you can’t hold back your own emotions—the complexity of that inner turmoil hits close to home.
Included on ≠ME’s ninth single, “Because Summer Has Come,” this track feels like peeking into a lovestruck girl’s diary.
It’s perfect for anyone stuck between friends and lovers or gathering the courage to confess.
Give it a listen—and take the leap to tell them how you feel!