1991 Japanese Hit Songs | A collection of timeless classics loved across generations!
In 1991, when Japan was shaken as the bubble economy began to collapse, music continued to soothe people’s hearts amid anxieties about changing times, and a stream of hit songs was born.
In this article, we’re spotlighting Japanese songs that became hits in 1991! From timeless ballads cherished across generations, to positive anthems that encouraged the Japanese people, to poignant love songs that tug at the heart, we’ll cover a wide range.
Why not look back on “who you were back then” alongside these gem-like masterpieces?
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1991 Japanese Hit Songs | A Collection of Timeless Classics Loved Across Generations (11–20)
ETERNAL WIND ~A Smile in the Shining Wind~Moriguchi Hiroko
This piece is the song performed by Hiroko Moriguchi as the theme for the film Mobile Suit Gundam F91.
It became her first entry into the top 10 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, peaking at No.
9, and ranked No.
47 on the year-end chart.
Befitting a grand anime set in space, the lyrics carry prayers for peace and a message of hope, also giving it an anti-war dimension.
Though a mid-tempo ballad, its sweeping choruses and strings create a sense of scale that offers a powerful comfort to people living with the anxieties of the times.
It’s an iconic 1990s anime song that makes you want to overlay feelings of parting and reunion with loved ones, and thoughts about the future.
GraduationWatanabe Misato
Released in April 1991 as a theme song for a Meiji Life commercial, this track by Misato Watanabe sets an unquenchable, never‑giving‑up love to Tetsuya Komuro’s delicate melody.
Though set during the spring graduation season, its lyrics—saying that “there are loves you can’t graduate from”—are poignantly moving and likely resonate with many.
The song reached No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and was included on the album Lucky.
It’s a number that stays close to those facing springtime farewells or wishing to look back on cherished memories of the past.
Love Story Comes SuddenlyOda Kazumasa
A monster single selected as the theme song for the smash-hit drama “Tokyo Love Story,” starring Yuji Oda and Honami Suzuki, selling over 2.5 million copies.
It set a new record for single CD sales in Japan at the time.
This representative work by Kazumasa Oda portrays a heartrending, mature romance.
Even decades after its release, it remains a timeless classic with undiminished popularity.
I’m glad I met you.Koizumi Kyoko
This is a song by Kyoko Koizumi, who was so popular in 1991 that it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say she was the top-selling female artist and idol of the time.
It was used as the theme song for the drama “Papa to Nacchan,” in which Koizumi starred and delivered a powerful performance as the daughter opposite Masakazu Tamura.
Although she had long been associated with a delicate idol image, this song showcases her presence as a fully fledged artist.
LADY NAVIGATIONB’z
This song was released in March 1991 as B’z’s eighth single.
It became a million seller, kicking off a record-setting streak in which B’z achieved 13 consecutive million-selling releases.
Sung from the perspective of a love-struck man, the track is rock at its core yet also reveals a poppy, charming side.
Why not experience the fresh energy that sets it apart from their more mature sound today?
Love Train/We love the EARTHTMN
This is a song by TMN led by Tetsuya Komuro.
A few years later, Komuro would go on to score hit after hit as a music producer and achieve explosive popularity.
This work could be considered one of the pieces where you can experience the precious early Komuro sound.
BoyhoodInoue Yosui
A signature song by Yosui Inoue that has now become a “Japanese classic.” It’s a piece that evokes the archetypal landscapes of Japan and is precious to the Japanese people.
No matter how times and trends change, Yosui Inoue stays true to his style and continues to deliver wonderful music.
This work, which irresistibly conveys the beauty of Japan and of the Japanese language, will continue to live on in the hearts of the Japanese.
At all times.Makihara Noriyuki
Released in June 1991, this was Noriyuki Makihara’s third single.
Known as one of his signature songs, it became a massive hit with total sales exceeding 1.6 million copies.
Its positive message—“No matter what, be yourself and believe in yourself”—has undoubtedly encouraged many listeners.
SAY YESCHAGE and ASKA
CHAGE and ASKA is a music duo formed by high school classmates that gained popularity with songs featuring distinctive vocals and beautiful harmonies.
Their 27th single, “SAY YES,” used as the theme song for the TV drama The 101st Proposal, became a double-million seller.
Its contrast between dreamlike ensemble and love-filled lyrics likely evokes scenes from the drama for those of that generation.
It’s a signature 1990s hit that brought the name CHAGE and ASKA to widespread recognition.
It always starts with rain.ASKA
A masterpiece by ASKA, whose translucent singing voice resonates deep in the heart.
Released in March 1991 and achieving million-seller status, the song was also featured in a Panasonic “HALF Component” commercial.
Its lyrics portray the poignant relationship of lovers who meet in the rain, intertwined with a tender, embracing melody that moves the listener.
Showcasing ASKA’s delicate expressiveness, this work depicts complex romantic emotions while brimming with a universal appeal that anyone can relate to.