A roundup of commercials that took the Reiwa era by storm. Looking back at memorable, popular ads.
Since the Reiwa era began, a stream of memorable commercials has been created.
Whether featuring trending celebrities, catchy music that sticks in your head, or stunning visuals that you can’t help but watch, these unforgettable ads are like mirrors reflecting their times.
In this article, we’ll look back at the commercials aired in the Reiwa era that drew significant attention.
If you’ve thought, “I’ve been curious about that ad!” or you’re wondering, “Which commercials are trending lately?” be sure to check this out!
A special feature on commercials that stole the spotlight in the Reiwa era: revisiting memorable, popular ads (1–10)
Otsuka Pharmaceutical Pocari Sweat “Pocari NEO Chorus” Version
This commercial portrays students completing a choir performance remotely, conveying a refreshing sense of youth.
Amid the COVID-19 situation that keeps them from attending school, their ingenuity in creating the piece showcases the students’ resilience.
The key point is how they pour their all into making something fun despite the uncertainty, giving the impression of a strong will to sprint through their youth.
You can feel the careful craftsmanship in many elements, such as lyrics that depict an enjoyable school life and lines that evoke the image of Pocari Sweat.
UQ mobile UQUEEN “Debut” VersionHikari Mitsushima, Ryuhei Matsuda
This commercial features Hikari Mitsushima appearing as UQUEEN, confidently announcing UQ’s plans and campaigns.
Ryuhei Matsuda, working at her side as a butler, is another highlight—through their comedic back-and-forth, the ad conveys the great value in a fun way.
In this debut-themed spot, they declare future prospects, building anticipation for what’s next for UQ.
It’s a commercial you’ll want to watch while noting the contrast between Mitsushima’s confident expressions and Matsuda’s bewilderment.
Recruit Hot Pepper Beauty “Revival” EditionYosuke Kubozuka
This is a commercial that, through Yosuke Kubozuka’s presence, promotes how easy Hot Pepper Beauty is for men to use.
A clerk responds to the vague request for “something that feels like Kubozuka,” leading to a comedic twist where the finished look resembles his appearance when he played King in the drama Ikebukuro West Gate Park.
Kubozuka is surprised to see a familiar version of himself, then gradually accepts it and seems to have fun with the clerk.
A key point is that they deliberately avoid mentioning “King” by name, making it a clever touch that only viewers who know will catch.
BOOKOFF “Ano-chan’s First Day at the Part-Time Job” VersionUm, Machie Kakimaru
It’s a commercial that conveys the fun of Book Off through the interaction between Ano, who plays a Book Off clerk, and Michie Kakimaru.
The phrase being highlighted here is “Wanna make a quick stop?”, which expresses the sense of anticipation that you might find something good if you drop by.
The veteran encourages the newcomer to try saying the phrase, but the fact that they ultimately don’t say it makes for a comedic twist.
Ano’s expressions, Kakimaru’s watchful reactions, and the perfectly timed pause before taking action are all particularly memorable.
Nissin Foods Nissin Donbei “Goodbye, Dongitsune” VersionRiho Yoshioka, Gen Hoshino
This commercial features Riho Yoshioka appearing as the “Don-Gitsune” alongside Gen Hoshino, conveying the appeal of Donbei through their interactions.
Up to this point, the two had been chatting about Donbei, but here, the home set opens up and the Don-Gitsune runs off into the distance.
Watching Gen Hoshino keep eating Donbei as snow falls evokes not only deliciousness but also a touch of melancholy.
Although the storyline is abrupt, the way it highlights Donbei’s charm in the small details makes it a comical ad.
au “Let’s go together in the first year of Reiwa” (version)Shota Matsuda, Kenta Kiritani, Gaku Hamada, Kasumi Arimura, Nanao, Masaki Suda, Rina Kawaei, Takashi Sasano, Tomoya Maeno
This is a commercial from au’s “Santaro” series, featuring Shota Matsuda, Kenta Kiritani, and Gaku Hamada as protagonists from old folktales, which aired around the time the era name changed to Reiwa.
Other characters who have appeared so far also show up one after another, and their interactions with the Santaro trio create a cheerful and warm atmosphere.
The scenes of just the three of them are also striking—their wholehearted smiles when they’re together convey a strong sense of friendship.
The song that further elevates the fun mood depicted in the footage is GReeeeN’s “Issho ni Ikou” (“Let’s Go Together”).
With a light rhythm and layered vocals, the dazzling sound conveys a positive message.
Kirin Beer Tanrei Green Label GREEN JUKEBOX ‘Snow’ EditionMikako Tabe, Iyori Shimizu
This commercial conveys the refreshing taste of Tanrei Green Label through a unique world: a jukebox set in nature.
When Mikako Tabe discovers the jukebox and presses the “Snow” button, the gentle singing voice of Iyori Shimizu from back number begins to play.
Even the depiction of light emerging within the calm natural setting evokes a relaxed atmosphere.
The song performed in this gentle ambiance is back number’s “Heroine.” It’s a ballad that unfolds with a soft band sound, and the soaring vocals layered on top convey an uplifting, positive mood.