[2026 Hit Songs] Iconic Heisei-Era Classics and Nostalgic Japanese Music
In 2009, a year when historic events unfolded one after another for Japan—like a change of government and victory in the WBC—the music scene was just as electrifying, producing numerous hits that defined the era.
These gems are filled with the heartache, passion, and pure joy of that time.
In this article, we’ll introduce timeless masterpieces that dominated the charts back then and still haven’t lost their luster.
Your heart will surely dance as you reunite with the songs you once loved.
Why not relive that excitement once more, along with your fond memories?
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[2026 Hits] Classic and Nostalgic J-Pop That Colored the Heisei Era (11–20)
HeroFUNKY MONKEY BABYS
A positive cheer song by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS dedicated to fathers everywhere! It vividly portrays dads who work hard every day for their families.
It’s not only an anthem that encourages those who are fathers themselves, but also a song that can remind everyone of the greatness of the figure we call “father.”
One-room DiscoPerfume
This is a spring song by Perfume themed around starting a new life.
It’s a danceable number that’s quintessentially Perfume, yet it became a hot topic for its tear-jerking lyrics.
It gently embraces people who feel both excitement and anxiety about living in a new stage and environment.
Many have surely found deep resonance with this song when standing at a crossroads in life.
All or NothingB’z
A song written as the theme for the Monday 9 p.m.
drama “Buzzer Beat: A Hero on the Edge.” It’s an upbeat love song that tells us, “You can’t know everything about the other person, but it’s enough if you can love even a part of them!” The dynamic sound, perfect for a basketball-themed drama, really lifts your spirits.
far; distant; by farGReeeeN
Released as a lead single from their 3rd album “Salt, Pepper,” this is a quintessentially GReeeeN straight-up friendship song.
As the theme song for the film ROOKIES: Graduation, based on a baseball manga, it became a major talking point.
The anxiety of setting off, the hope for the future, and the resolve to return here again—if you’ve experienced a turning point in life, you can’t help but relate.
sunflowerYūsuke
This is the debut single released by Yusuke Kamiji under his artist name “Yusuke.” It’s an upbeat, positive song that feels like it turns his natural, carefree personality directly into music.
With its simple, catchy melody, it’s perfect for karaoke! Why not sing it when you’re feeling down or when you want to cheer someone up?
Spring, Summer, Autumn, WinterHilcrhyme
It’s a smash hit by Hilcrhyme.
Many listeners surely related to the lyrics, which straightforwardly express the feeling of “wanting to be with you all year round.” The song captured countless hearts, even inspiring a novel based on its lyrics.
To this day, it remains a beloved staple at weddings and receptions.
[2026 Hit Songs] Masterpieces That Colored the Heisei Era: Nostalgic Japanese Music (21–30)
stepsGReeeeN
A single delivered just two short months after the previous release, brimming with encouragement for those aiming to become a new version of themselves.
Its forward-looking messages—like a heart determined to seize dreams and a courage that never fades—resonate directly, while the chamber music–style string arrangement adds an elegant touch.
Chosen in January 2009 as the campaign song for U-Can, it became known nationwide through commercials featuring Miho Kanno, Hiroshi Tamaki, and others.
Singing that no step is ever wasted, this piece will gently nudge anyone preparing to earn a qualification or embark on a new challenge.