Lovely Christmas

[90s Christmas Songs] Nostalgic and Beloved Christmas Classics

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

The 1990s were the golden era of J-pop, when CDs sold more than ever and million-selling hits kept coming one after another.

There were countless songs everyone could talk about, and as you walked through the city, hit after hit played everywhere—that’s what those times were like.

Naturally, many staple J-pop Christmas songs you can’t skip during the winter season were released in that era.

In this article, we’re highlighting timeless Christmas classics born in the ’90s, offering a lineup anyone can enjoy, regardless of generation!

Many of these masterpieces have been covered by later artists, so especially if you’re younger, you might discover that a song you know actually originated from a different band or artist.

[90s Christmas Songs] Nostalgic and Beloved Christmas Classics (41–50)

CHRISTMAS TIME FOREVERSazan Ōrusutāzu

CHRISTMAS TIME FOREVER / Southern All Stars cover

CHRISTMAS TIME FOREVERSazan Ōrusutāzu

A track included on Southern All Stars’ 1992 album “Yo ni Manyō no Hana ga Saku Nari.” It was used for Marui’s Christmas campaign song.

While the melody has a cute, Christmassy feel, it also carries a subtle sense of melancholy.

In a world filled with hardship and sorrow, you can’t help but wish that the happy moments of Christmas could last forever across the globe.

This song captures that fleeting, fragile hope.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

[90s Christmas Songs] Nostalgic and Beloved Christmas Classics (51–60)

Jin jin jingle bellMoritaka Chisato

Chisato Moritaka “Jin-Jin Jingle Bell” [Self-Cover]

Jin jin jingle bellMoritaka Chisato

A perfect song for the exciting Christmas season was released in December 1995 and quickly captured the hearts of many.

Written and composed by Chisato Moritaka herself, the track enjoyed great popularity, reaching No.

2 on the Oricon charts and No.

1 on CDTV.

It was also used in a commercial for Suntory Ice Gin, making it beloved across generations.

With a melody that epitomizes winter, it’s ideal for decorating for Christmas or adding sparkle to a special day with someone dear.

The clear vocals and lively tune are sure to warm your heart even in the cold season.

Every time you play it, it will make you look forward to the night of the 24th.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Christmas without snowTahara Toshihiko

Christmas without snow

Christmas without snowTahara Toshihiko

It’s his first single since leaving Johnny’s, and it’s a very heartrending song.

You can picture a man who’s been chasing his dreams losing his love and walking alone through a snowy town.

The tempo is upbeat and catchy, but the content is a sad breakup song.

Listening to a track like this makes you feel a little encouraged, like you’re not the only one who’s alone.

It’s his Christmas song that was a huge hit in the ’90s!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

In conclusion

I introduced Christmas songs from the ’90s.

Many of them are still featured today as classic Christmas tracks, aren’t they? Speaking of ’90s J-pop, there are still so many popular songs—it truly was the golden age of J-pop! If you listened to them in real time back then, of course, and even if you’re from a younger generation, take this opportunity to give them a listen!