Just listening will surely move your heart! A moving song that represents the Heisei era.
The Heisei era, which lasted for over 30 years, is known as the time when CDs sold the most, and it gave rise to countless classic songs.
Among them, what kinds of tracks come to mind when you think of music that truly resonates with listeners and moves their hearts?
This time, we’ve picked out some deeply moving songs born in the Heisei era.
Whether it’s songs about someone dear, tracks that lift your spirits, or songs about parting, you’re sure to find something you can relate to.
We hope you enjoy them.
Just listening will surely move your heart! The most moving songs representing the Heisei era (1–10)
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
Yuzu, a folk duo known as a quintessential act from the streets, continue to captivate fans with live performances that never forget their amateur roots.
Their 21st single, widely recognized as the official theme song for NHK’s Athens Olympics coverage, features a grand arrangement of piano and strings that truly stirs the heart.
Its message—that you are who you are now because of the effort you’ve built up and polished over time—gives courage and confidence to face your dreams head-on.
Released in July 2004, this moving song pairs an emotional melody with a powerful push forward.
Islanders’ TreasureBEGIN
A beloved song by BEGIN that symbolizes the spirit and culture of Okinawa.
Created in May 2002 as the image song for NHK Okinawa’s “30 Years Since Reversion to the Mainland,” it was composed based on words written by a junior high school student about their feelings for their hometown.
The lyrics, filled with love for Okinawa’s beautiful nature, the pride of its islanders, and its culture, deeply move those who listen.
With gentle tones that conjure up Okinawan landscapes and a melody that resonates in the heart, it’s a warm, comforting piece that makes anyone think of home.
NEVER ENDAmuro Namie
Namie Amuro’s 17th single was released to the world as the image song for the Kyushu–Okinawa Summit.
Incorporating melodies from Ryukyuan folk music, the song conveys messages of a lasting future and hope, as well as the enduring nature of human relationships.
Released in July 2000, it drew major attention when Amuro herself performed it before national leaders at the summit’s welcome party.
Characterized by a gentle melodic line and touching lyrics, it is a grand number imbued with a prayer for peace.
It’s a recommended song to sing when you want to express your wish for world peace.
Letter ~To You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki
A song that beautifully fuses gentleness and strength.
With the original concept of a letter to her 15-year-old self, it delivers a message that resonates deeply.
Released in September 2008, the track also made a major impact in education, being chosen as a required piece for NHK’s National School Music Competition.
Its piano-centered melody and Angela Aki’s clear, transparent vocals gently embrace the listener’s heart.
It’s the perfect song for those standing at a crossroads in life or wanting to face themselves.
It will surely bring courage and hope to your heart.
The Toilet GodUemura Kana
A heartwarming song reflecting on memories with her grandmother, Kana Uemura’s gentle vocals sink deep into the heart.
This work is a nearly 10-minute epic included on the mini-album “Watashi no Kakeratachi,” released in March 2010.
Centered on the lesson of “becoming beautiful” that she learned from her grandmother through cleaning the bathroom, it expresses love for and gratitude toward family.
Based on Uemura’s real-life experiences, the lyrics resonate deeply with listeners and prompt reflection on bonds with loved ones.
When you think of your family or someone dear to you, please give this song a listen—it will surely warm your heart.
PRIDENEW!Imai Miki
This piece resonates with lyrics that portray deep love for a partner and the will of an independent woman, carried by a warm melody crafted by Tomoyasu Hotei.
You don’t need to belt it out, and the melody moves gently, making it a great choice even for those who aren’t very confident in their singing.
Released in November 1996 as Miki Imai’s 12th single, it also became well known as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Doc.” As a tender, soothing ballad, it’s recommended for the latter part of a karaoke session or in a calm setting.
Simply following the melody carefully will make it sound lovely, so consider adding it to your repertoire.
Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro
This is the second single by singer-songwriter Naotaro Moriyama, whose lyrics, skillfully incorporating striking, unforgettable phrases, have moved listeners to their core.
Known as a quintessential “sakura song” in the J-pop scene, it was released in March 2003.
It was also used as the ending theme for TBS’s “Sekai Ururun Taizaiki,” and achieved an extraordinary hit by reaching No.
1 on the Oricon chart in its ninth week.
The lyrics, themed around graduation and parting, are layered with the fleeting nature of cherry blossoms and resonate deeply with listeners.
It’s a moving ballad perfect for the season when you can feel the arrival of spring.