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

As the Christmas season approaches, even those who aren’t particularly into the holiday find themselves unconsciously humming timeless Christmas songs.

Japan’s 1980s music scene—an era that produced countless hits and classics in the nation’s musical history—gave rise to many Christmas songs that are still sung today.

In this article, we’re spotlighting those iconic Christmas tunes born in the ’80s, presenting a diverse lineup that ranges from chart-toppers everyone has heard at least once to hidden gems.

It’s also recommended for anyone who wants to learn more about 1980s kayōkyoku, which in recent years has been drawing keen attention from younger music fans.

[80s J-Pop] Popular Christmas Songs: From Big Hits to Hidden Gems! (91–100)

Santa is coming to TokyoPāru Kyōdai

Santa Is Coming to Tokyo – Pearl Brothers
Santa is coming to TokyoPāru Kyōdai

The Pearl Brothers began their activities in the early 1980s and were a popular unit known for their unique sound that incorporated rock and techno.

Featured on their 1987 Christmas-themed release Pearl & Snow is this track, Santa ga Tokyo ni Yattekuru (Santa Is Coming to Tokyo).

It straightforwardly conveys the excitement everyone feels at Christmas and can be considered a hidden gem among Japanese Christmas songs.

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Our Jingle BellsHarada Tomoyo

Tomoyo Harada’s Christmas song “Our Jingle Bells,” a classic from her heyday in the ’80s, showcases her gentle vocals and love of music.

Her soft singing reflects her personality as a fan of Swedish music, making it perfect for the winter season.

The bittersweet story of lovers who, after a fateful meeting and a joyful Christmas together, end up parting ways before the next Christmas tugs at the heartstrings.

Whether you want to spend a happy Christmas with your partner or have had painful experiences during the holidays, it’s a song anyone can relate to.

miyabi
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A Lonely Christmas SongOzaki Ami

When discussing Japanese Christmas songs, one cannot overlook “Hitoribocchi no Christmas Song,” released in 1983 and created by Ami Ozaki.

Handling the lyrics, composition, and arrangement herself, Ozaki crafted a piece whose deeply resonant melody and distinctive world-building captivated listeners and colored the Japanese music scene of the 1980s.

Her delicate expressiveness and moving melodies offer a comforting experience—whether you spend Christmas alone or with others—and will appeal to first-time listeners across generations.

miyabi
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Sleeveless ChristmasTokunaga Hideaki

HIDEAKI TOKUNAGA – Sleeveless Christmas
Sleeveless ChristmasTokunaga Hideaki

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.

Hoshino Takashi
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Yuu-chan’s ChristmasHayami Yū

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.

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