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)
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.
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.
Kao Attack ZERO Laundry Lovers Club “Cautious Tori-kun” VersionTori Matsuzaka, Masaki Suda, Kento Kaku, Shotaro Mamiya, Yosuke Sugino
This commercial promotes Attack ZERO, which is effective against invisible dirt and odors, through conversations among the Laundry Lovers Club.
The members are Tori Matsuzaka, Masaki Suda, Kento Kaku, Shotaro Mamiya, and Yosuke Sugino, who comically present common laundry troubles and their solutions.
It’s also fun that you can’t predict who will pull a comedic move—like Masaki Suda being baffled by Tori Matsuzaka wearing a freshly cleaned towel over his head.
The smiles they show when they feel that sense of cleanliness really convey how effective it is.
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.
Marubeni: If there’s something we can’t do, let’s do it together. “LIVE” versionAdo
This commercial showcases Marubeni’s slogan, “If there’s something we can’t do alone, let’s do it together,” through Ado’s powerful live performance.
The key is the interaction between Ado and the audience; as their voices layer, it conveys a message of moving forward as one.
The song that Ado belts out in this electrifying concert setting is “Rockstar.” Along with her vocals, the driving rhythm is a crucial element—its earth-shaking beat powerfully delivers that sense of strength.
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.
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.