Winter songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic winter anthems that never lose their shine.
In the 2000s, many timeless hits were born—songs like Remioromen’s “Konayuki” and Mika Nakashima’s “Yuki no Hana,” which are still loved by people of all ages today.
For those who remember when these songs were topping the charts, they likely feel especially familiar.
In this article, we’ve gathered winter songs from the 2000s—from dazzling tracks that make you hum along to exquisite ballads with beautiful melodies.
Please use this playlist as background music to reminisce about winter memories or to relax and enjoy this year’s winter at your own pace!
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Winter songs that were hits in the 2000s. Timeless winter song classics (1–10)
Lovers AgainEXILE
EXILE’s “Lovers Again” is a song that expresses the unbearable grief and lingering attachment of losing a lover.
It was released in 2007 as the second installment of their then-ongoing three-month consecutive release project.
From the intro—brimming with a painful poignancy—it leads listeners into a reflective, sentimental mood.
Layered with the chill of winter, it evokes that indescribable loneliness unique to the season.
On a cold night, let this song take you back to those memories of days gone by.
powder snowRemioromen
For anyone who feels attached to this song, just hearing the intro is enough to make the tears well up.
That’s how deeply Remioromen’s “Konayuki” has moved so many hearts.
Released in 2005, it was also featured as an insert song in the drama “1 Litre of Tears” that aired the same year.
Combined with the drama’s story, it became a beloved staple winter tearjerker from back then.
It’s a love song that overlays powdery snow with the fragility of love; not only the lyrics, but the melody line is achingly poignant.
No matter when you listen, it paints your heart in winter hues.
Winter IllusionAcid Black Cherry
“Fuyu no Maboroshi” (Winter Illusion) is a poignant ballad by Acid Black Cherry, the rock band formed around yasu, formerly of Janne Da Arc.
The chorus, delivered by yasu with his signature clear, airy vocals, is sure to stir your heart.
Although it’s a ballad, the intense guitar sound comes through strongly, making it a great pick for rock fans as well.
By the way, the music video has a uniquely comedic touch—be sure to check it out along with the song!
Winter songs that were hits in the 2000s. Timeless winter song classics (11–20)
A Lump of LoveKinKi Kids
When it comes to iconic winter songs from the 2000s, this track by KinKi Kids surely stands out.
Released in November 2001 as the B-side to the single “Hey! Minna Genki Kai?”, this gem was born from the duo’s deep bond and is a heartfelt ballad filled with gratitude and love for their fans.
Tsuyoshi Domoto’s delicate lyrics and Koichi Domoto’s beautiful melody blend seamlessly, leaving a lingering resonance in the heart.
The song richly captures the essence of winter—one you’ll want to listen to while snuggling up with a loved one on a cold night.
It’s perfect for reminiscing about cherished memories with someone special or for spending a calm, unhurried moment.
No way to sayHamasaki Ayumi
A masterpiece that sings of the feelings of lovers huddling together against the winter cold.
Released in November 2003, the song topped the Oricon charts and generated a major response, winning the Grand Prize at the 45th Japan Record Awards.
It explores the theme of the frustration of being unable to put into words the emotions you carry or the feelings you want to convey.
Ayumi Hamasaki’s delicate vocals beautifully capture the complex emotions deep within the heart, resonating with many listeners.
It’s a winter song we’d especially recommend to those troubled by love or unable to express their feelings to someone important.
Merry XmasBoA
Meri Kuri, sung by BoA, is the quintessential Christmas song of the 2000s.
Ever since its 2004 release, it’s a track you want to revisit every holiday season.
This love ballad lets you feel the warmth of a partner that seems even more precious in the cold.
The beautiful melody alone is enough to make you swoon.
The powerful chorus, where BoA’s vocals resonate with the strings in perfect harmony, is truly moving.
It’s a classic that turns the winter season into something special.
Love Song in DecemberGACKT
When it comes to December love songs, GACKT’s track inevitably comes to mind.
It’s a hugely popular song first released as a single in 2001.
It’s a warm piece that fits perfectly with the time of year when the end of the year approaches and the bustle of daily life overlaps with a sense of nostalgia.
The gentle, whisper-like vocals swell into a powerful chorus that really hits you in the chest.
It’s a lovely winter ballad that makes you cherish those small, deeply personal moments of happiness all over again.
