[80s Japanese Music] Popular Christmas songs: from hit tracks to hidden gems!

Sleeveless ChristmasTokunaga Hideaki

HIDEAKI TOKUNAGA – Sleeveless Christmas

A singer-songwriter with a truly unique presence thanks to his androgynous voice, Hideaki Tokunaga has earned high praise not only for his original songs but also for his cover albums.

This track, included on his third album “BIRDS,” tells a story set in the season after Christmas has passed.

His refreshing vocals evoke summer, while the sparkling arrangement conjures winter—an evocative world exactly as the title suggests.

Unlike many Christmas songs that focus squarely on winter, this is an outstanding Christmas tune that offers a different approach, yet still allows you to vividly picture the scene.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Yuu-chan’s ChristmasHayami Yū

Yuu-chan’s Christmas

When it comes to winter traditions of the 1980s, many people probably think of this song.

Featuring Yū Hayami’s clear, memorable vocals, it beautifully captures a Christmas-like sense of magic.

The lyrics paint joyful Christmas scenes—city illuminations and gift exchanges—that warm the listener’s heart.

The harmony with children’s voices is lovely, making it a track the whole family can enjoy.

With its heartwarming melody, it’s the kind of song you find yourself humming naturally during the Christmas season.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Santa ClausGO-BANG’S

GO-BANG’S / Rock ’n’ Roll Santa Claus [Official Music Video]

When it comes to Christmas songs, many people probably imagine a mid-tempo ballad filled with the sound of sleigh bells and chimes—but this GO-BANG’S track is the opposite of that image.

It has a uniquely appealing charm, with a sound that seems to reflect the early ’90s music scene and a strangely comfortable, catchy chorus melody.

The playful lyrics—so characteristic of Kaori Morikawa—are another highlight.

Released on November 21, 1990, the song was also used as the ending theme for the ANB TV program Hanakin Data Land.

Featuring a distinctive sound that blends elements of disco, synth-pop, and soul, it’s the perfect track for anyone who wants to have a fun Christmas!

Sofia in the MistTHE ALFEE

Sofia in the Mist

It’s The Alfee’s 21st single, released in 1985, with Takamizawa on lead vocals.

It’s a dramatically styled number packed with quintessential ’80s synth sounds.

The lyrics portray a man full of lingering regret, reminiscing in late autumn about a love that ended last Christmas.

Christmas in the wintry windShimachura Chiyoko / Kataoka Tsurutarou

Chiyoko Shimakura & Tsurutaro Kataoka — A Wintry Wind Christmas

It’s an unconventional Christmas duet song.

The heavyweight duo Takashi Miki and Yasushi Akimoto provided the track.

Both the melody and the sound make for a well-crafted Christmas pop number, but since it’s sung by enka singers, it somehow carries a hint of enka.

What are you doing for Christmas?Morikawa Miho

Miho Morikawa – What are you doing for Christmas? All-out Christmas 4/4

Miho Morikawa, who debuted as a singer in 1985 while still a high school idol and was popular for her strong vocal ability.

This Christmas song, included on her third album “Nude Voice,” released in 1987, is the one here.

Just as the title suggests, it’s a classic Christmas tune that captures a young woman’s fluttering heart as she wonders what kind of Christmas it will be.

Merry X’mas For YouKawai Sonoko, Kokushou Sayuri, Jounouchi Sanae, Watanabe Minayo, Watanabe Marina

Merry X’mas For You

“Merry X’mas For You” is a Christmas song sung together by Sonoko Kawai, Sayuri Kokusho, Sanae Jounouchi, Minayo Watanabe, and Marina Watanabe from Onyanko Club.

The lyrics were written by Yasushi Akimoto, and the music was composed by Tsugutoshi Goto.