Millennial Generation: Iconic Heisei-Era Songs That Defined Our Youth
Do you still find yourself humming songs from the Heisei era? When you think back on your youth, don’t you remember the moments you encountered songs that resonated with your heart? For those of the “Yutori” generation in particular, the classic hits of the Heisei period may hold a special place.
Those songs are now spoken of alongside fond memories.
Here, we introduce melodies and lyrics that have been loved across generations.
You’re sure to find one that’s tied to your own cherished memories.
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[Yutori Generation] Timeless Heisei Anthems That Shaped Our Youth (11–20)
SakurazakaFukuyama Masaharu
The 15th single, released in 2000, is a song that was used as the theme for the “Mirai Nikki V” segment of the variety show “U-nan no Hontoko!”.
Born from Masaharu Fukuyama’s own experience of heartbreak, the piece portrays lingering feelings for a former lover while still wishing for their happiness.
The lyrics, which intertwine the season of cherry blossoms with parting, resonate even more deeply when heard during spring, a time of new beginnings.
Achieving a record-breaking 2,299,000 in cumulative sales, this song stands as one of the Heisei era’s quintessential “sakura” songs—one that anyone who has experienced a breakup can relate to.
A future we create togetherKetsumeishi
A love song by Ketsumeishi that warmly sings of gratitude for the miracle brought by meeting someone special, and the hope for the future the two will build together.
It straightforwardly conveys the excitement about walking into the future side by side, while savoring the happiness of sharing the ordinary days.
Released in 2011 as a double A-side single with “Ballad,” the track was featured as an insert song in the drama Haganeno Onna Season 2 and used in a TEPCO commercial, and it has been beloved by many couples, ranking high on wedding song charts.
Its gentle melody and uplifting lyrics make it a moving piece perfectly suited for life’s big moments.
Heavy rotationAKB48
Released as their 17th single in 2010, this song became a national hit as one of AKB48’s signature tracks, something you’d hear almost daily on karaoke and TV.
Its cute lyrics, set to a brisk rock tempo, sing honestly about a straightforward crush, capturing the fluttery excitement of love that everyone experiences at least once.
The way it surges from the chorus is irresistibly catchy, making you want to sing along, and it’s designed so friends and groups can enjoy the chorus and dance together.
It was heavily aired as the CM song for UHA Mikakutou’s “Puccho,” and in karaoke it set a record by ranking No.
1 for a total of 81 weeks in 2012.
It’s the perfect number for sharing that love-struck feeling with everyone or getting the whole room hyped at karaoke.
Chocolate DiscoPerfume
This song, with its shimmering synth sound and catchy, repetitive phrases, is included on the single “Fan Service [sweet],” released in February 2007.
It’s a poppy electro track that delivers a Valentine’s Day confession of love, lightly portraying the inner worlds of a calculating girl and an expectant boy.
The refined production by Yasutaka Nakata and the three members’ clear, transparent vocals make for an exceptionally pleasing combination.
It was featured in commercials for Toyota and for sweets, and today it’s cherished every year as a Valentine’s Day staple.
Sing it at karaoke with friends and you’re sure to get the crowd going—dance moves included.
It’s the perfect song for when you want to recall those sweet-and-sour feelings or lift your spirits.
CHE.R.RYYUI
Released in 2007, this signature spring song by YUI portrays the fluttery feelings of a one-sided crush through the lens of flip-phone email exchanges.
The protagonist’s heart leaps at emoji-filled messages from their crush, frets over when to reply, and, unable to play it cool, answers right away—capturing the pure sincerity of a girl in love.
Set to light acoustic guitar, the bittersweet emotions are sung in a charming, cute way.
The track drew attention as the CM song for KDDI’s “LISMO!” and debuted at No.
2 on the Oricon chart.
It’s also included on the album “CAN’T BUY MY LOVE.” Perfect for when you want to reminisce about a gentle first love or get excited chatting about youthful memories with friends.
Joyfulikimonogakari
It’s that catchy, popping-sounding track you’ve probably heard at least once in a Pocky commercial.
Released in 2009 as a double A-side single with “YELL,” it created a huge buzz as the theme song for Ezaki Glico’s ads.
The upbeat arrangement, featuring a horn section and handclaps, pairs with Kiyoe Yoshioka’s bright, smile-inducing vocals to make your body start moving without even thinking.
It’s perfect for getting hyped with friends, and it’d be amazing played at school events or sports days.
It’s also a karaoke staple everyone knows, making it an ideal pick when you want to liven up the mood.
[Yutori Generation] Iconic Heisei-Era Songs That Marked Our Youth (21–30)
Apply false eyelasheskyarī pamyu pamyu
Released in January 2012 as Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s debut single, this track features Yasutaka Nakata’s dazzling electropop sound and lyrics that intertwine themes of magic and transformation inspired by false eyelashes.
Through the everyday act of putting on makeup, the protagonist’s growing confidence is portrayed with playful, pop-infused word choices.
Pre-released in 73 countries including Japan, the song drew global attention and debuted at No.
7 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
The B-side, “Kyary ANAN,” was used in a commercial for the job service “an” by Intelligence.
Its unforgettable catchy phrases and melodies have colored many people’s youth in vivid hues.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants a boost of energy or loves all things cute.