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Brightening the start of a new chapter in life! Wedding songs born in the Heisei era

A wedding is one of life’s biggest events.

It’s a day that fills not only the couple, but also their family and friends with happiness.

So, what kind of music comes to mind when you think of celebrating such a bright and joyous day?

Here, we’ve compiled a list of classic wedding songs that defined the Heisei era.

They’re perfect as background music, and also great picks for friends to sing during performances or at karaoke!

We hope this will be helpful for anyone planning to have their wedding soon.

Color your new beginning in life! Wedding songs born in the Heisei era (21–30)

bouquetback number

back number – Bouquet (full)
bouquetback number

This is a gem of a love song where unpretentious conversations between lovers convey a clumsy yet profound affection.

It portrays a vague anxiety about the future alongside a straightforward desire to stay together, and listening to it warms the heart.

Released in June 2011 as back number’s second single, the track is also included on the acclaimed album “SUPER STAR.” Many will recognize it as the ending theme for TBS’s COUNT DOWN TV.

The fact that it received over 50 power plays on radio stations nationwide at the time speaks to how much attention it garnered.

This work, which makes you feel the preciousness of everyday life with someone important, continues to be cherished as a classic wedding song.

Pure Love SongShonan no Kaze

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

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.

A day that’s happy and lonelyTakeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – A Day So Happy It Makes Me Lonely (Official Music Video)
A day that’s happy and lonelyTakeuchi Mariya

It’s a moving ballad told from a mother’s perspective, celebrating her beloved child’s marriage.

The lyrics portray the complex feelings of a parent—the joy of watching a child leave the nest mixed with a touch of loneliness—tightening the heart.

The song was produced in May 2008 as a collaborative commercial track for P&G’s Pantene and Zexy, and it was also included on the acclaimed album “Expressions.” It even achieved the remarkable feat of entering the singles Top 10 at the age of 53 years and 2 months.

Listening to this piece on the special day of a family’s new beginning may bring back memories of the irreplaceable days you’ve spent together and make you want to express your gratitude.

A melody instead of a bouquetShimizu Shota

Shota Shimizu 'A Melody Instead of a Bouquet' MV (Full Size)
A melody instead of a bouquetShimizu Shota

A love song by Shota Shimizu that gives voice to the unspoken feelings of lovers separated by distance.

Chosen as the theme song for the NHK drama “Designer Baby,” it resonated deeply with viewers.

Instead of a bouquet, he offers a melody; instead of an embrace, he sends his voice.

The lyrics, imbued with such bittersweet emotions, leave a lasting impression.

Released in October 2015 and included on the album “PROUD,” the song drew renewed attention in 2020 when it was used in a routine by a female comedian.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to sing at weddings or during a proposal.

Shota Shimizu’s warm vocals are sure to gently embrace the love between two people.

Your Song for YouKawasaki Takaya

Takaya Kawasaki - Kimi no Tame no Kimi no Uta [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]
Your Song for YouKawasaki Takaya

This is a heartwarming song that contrasts the grandeur of the universe’s history with the small acts of love found in everyday life.

It is one of Takaya Kawasaki’s signature works, included on the 2018 album “I believe in you.” After its initial release on an indie label, it was reissued by Victor Entertainment.

The song portrays the preciousness of each moment with a loved one, expressing a straightforward, sincere devotion to someone dear.

The gentle tone of the acoustic guitar and the tender vocals resonate as if softly enveloping those feelings.

It’s a piece that supports anyone reflecting on relationships with irreplaceable people—partners, family, and others—and feeling a deep sense of love.

The Wheat SongNakajima Miyuki

Miyuki Nakajima “Song of Wheat” Music Video (Short Ver.) [Official]
The Wheat SongNakajima Miyuki

This heartwarming song by Miyuki Nakajima begins with the emotive sound of Scottish bagpipes, into which Japanese lyrical melodies gently blend.

Tenderly singing of life abroad, farewells to loved ones, and hope for new beginnings, it offers a profound exploration of life’s subtleties.

Released in October 2014, the song was written as the theme for the NHK morning drama “Massan,” musically illuminating the true story of the couple who helped give birth to Japanese whisky.

It was also performed at the 65th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year, moving many viewers.

How about humming it together during music recreation time? Its gentle tune and deep lyrics are sure to resonate with your heart.

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo

A beloved masterpiece by Yo Hitoto that gently sings a prayer for loved ones and a wish for peace.

Released in February 2004, it has soothed many hearts with her unique sensibility as a Japanese-Taiwanese artist and her clear, transparent voice.

Using the flower—an emblem of Japan–U.S.

friendship—as its motif, the song expresses bonds with precious people and hopes for a happy future.

It was featured as the theme song for NTV’s Tuesday Suspense Theater and in JRA commercials, and set a record by staying on the Oricon Weekly Singles chart for 125 consecutive weeks.

Whether in moments of aching love or parting, or at life’s milestones such as weddings and graduations, it remains a song that shines without fading.