[Heisei Love Songs] A carefully selected collection of gem-like love songs that continue to be cherished even in the Reiwa era!
From bittersweet unrequited-love songs to happy mutual-love tunes, love songs are timelessly filled with masterpieces!
They especially tend to resonate with those in the midst of romance.
In this article, we’re featuring “Heisei Love Songs”—romance tracks that were released and became hits during the Heisei era.
These are all songs that drew a lot of attention at the time, so many of you can probably sing along.
You’ll no doubt find yourself thinking, “I used to listen to this so much!” and sinking into a wave of nostalgia.
They’re sure to make for a lively karaoke session if you go with a “Heisei Love Songs only” theme, don’t you think?
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[Heisei Love Songs] A handpicked selection of exquisite love songs that continue to be cherished in the Reiwa era! (1–10)
CAN YOU CELEBRATE?Namie Amuro
When it comes to ballads by Namie Amuro, the diva who defined the Heisei era, many people probably think of this song.
With lyrics praising eternal love and Amuro’s soul-stirring vocals in perfect harmony, it became a massive hit immediately upon its release in February 1997.
It was chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s prime-time Monday drama “Virgin Road,” and has since become a beloved wedding staple.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to on a special night with your partner or when you want to feel the bond with someone important.
It’s great for karaoke, but it might be even nicer to listen to together with someone you love.
FlowerORANGE RANGE
Released in 2004 as the theme song for the film “Be with You,” this track became one of ORANGE RANGE’s signature songs.
Its lyrics, which sing of life’s transience and beauty and the preciousness of love, along with a catchy melody anyone can hum, leave a lasting impression.
A massive Heisei-era hit beloved across generations, it spent 42 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Oricon karaoke chart.
Why not take a relaxed moment to listen, savoring the heartfelt lyrics of a song that stands by you through memories with loved ones and life’s turning points?
Snow BlossomMika Nakashima
A signature song by Mika Nakashima that portrays a love story set against a snowy backdrop.
The scene of walking hand in hand with a lover in the cold evening breeze is depicted with poignant beauty.
The lyrics simultaneously convey a vow of eternal love and a premonition of parting, leaving some listeners with an ache in their hearts.
Released in 2003 and used in a Meiji Seika commercial, this track has become an indispensable favorite at Nakashima’s concerts and tours.
When you want to reflect on your feelings for someone special in the quiet of winter, be sure to give it a listen.
[Heisei Love Songs] A curated selection of timeless love songs still cherished in the Reiwa era! (11–20)
EverythingMISIA
A quintessential ballad of the Heisei era.
Its majestic string arrangement and MISIA’s overwhelming vocal prowess blend beautifully to move the listener’s heart.
Released in October 2000, it became a social phenomenon, topping JASRAC’s royalties distribution ranking the following year.
Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Yamato Nadeshiko,” it remains etched in the memories of many.
The lyrics—expressing deep love and gratitude for a lover or someone dear—have a timeless appeal, making it a karaoke staple.
A warm, uplifting song that supports you through many moments in life.
The Future Projection IIDREAMS COME TRUE
A quintessential masterpiece of the Heisei era! The lyrics, which portray deep love that never fades with time, resonate with many people.
Included on the album “LOVE GOES ON.
.
.” released in November 1989, this song has since been re-recorded in various forms and featured across numerous media.
In 2007, it was even used as an insert song in a film, continuing to be cherished across generations.
The musicality woven by Miwa Yoshida’s overwhelming vocal power and Masato Nakamura’s arrangements gently embraces the listener’s heart.
With its relaxed melody line, it’s easy to sing at karaoke—why not try singing it together with someone special?
Just... I want to see youEXILE
“Just… I Want to See You” is a song from the first chapter of EXILE, when ATSUSHI and SHUN were on vocals.
For those who spent their student years in the 2000s, listening to EXILE may bring back memories of their youth.
Some of you might even have listened to this song on repeat after a breakup, as it poignantly captures lingering feelings of heartache and sorrow.
SakurazakaMasaharu Fukuyama
This is the 15th single by Masaharu Fukuyama, a singer-songwriter from Nagasaki who has continued to thrive both as an actor and a musician.
The song was used as the theme for the ‘Mirai Nikki V’ segment of the variety show ‘U-nan no Hontoko!’.
Its lyrics—said to be inspired by Fukuyama’s own heartbreak—are poignantly moving.
Even after a breakup, the lingering feelings for a former partner are something anyone who has experienced heartbreak can relate to.
With Fukuyama’s soothing low voice, this is one of the quintessential sakura songs of the Heisei era.