Winter songs in 90s J-pop: a roundup of popular winter tunes
The J-pop scene of the ’90s was truly a golden era—a time when CDs sold explosively and countless mega-hits were born.
It was also an era when numerous winter songs colored the streets.
Cityscapes glowing with illuminations, white breaths in the cold air, moments spent with someone special.
When you picture those winter scenes, don’t the winter songs of that time naturally resonate in your heart? From bittersweet yet warm ballads to pop numbers that hype up Christmas, this article delivers a rich selection of ’90s J-pop winter tunes—from massive hits to hidden gems.
Whether you’re reminiscing about those days or discovering them for the first time, enjoy these exquisite tracks along with the winter air!
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Winter songs of 90s J-POP. Popular winter tunes compilation (71–80)
Tonight is a Hearty PartyTakeuchi Mariya
This is a fun song by singer-songwriter Mariya Takeuchi that blows away the winter chill.
The lyrics and composition are by Takeuchi herself, with sound production by Tatsuro Yamashita.
Created as the CM song for Kentucky Fried Chicken’s Christmas campaign, it features an energetic sound that evokes a lively Christmas party for young people.
It’s also a fun touch that Takuya Kimura, who appears in the lyrics, takes part with spoken lines and chorus.
Christmas timeDEEN
A winter ballad whose magnificent strings color the holy night and resonate in the heart.
Released on a maxi single in November 1999 as the opening of the Classics series, this piece was also used as the ending theme for the TBS program “Wonderful.” Set against the snow-covered streets of one’s hometown, it paints a romantic scene that speaks tenderly of pure love for someone special.
Shuichi Ikemori’s endlessly clear vocals blend with a beautifully orchestral sound to create a pure, pristine world.
It’s the perfect number for strolling through streets glittering with illuminations or for spending a cozy winter night at home.
Peach ChristmasOkamura Yasuyuki
“Peach X’mas” is Yasuyuki Okamura’s 18th single, released in 1995, and it was issued as a single from the album “Kinjirareta Ikigai,” which also came out that year.
The sparkling electric piano you hear in the intro really brings out the Christmas vibe.
The music video uses footage from his 1991 live tour.
It’s a grand love ballad that lets you fully enjoy Okamura’s vocals, so be sure to give it a listen!
Winter songs of 90s J-POP. Popular winter song roundup (81–90)
Hallelujah in the snowMOON CHILD
A winter song that sings of love and transience in the snow, it’s one of MOON CHILD’s signature tracks.
It delicately depicts two people embracing as the snow piles up and the wintry cityscape.
Shuu Sasaki’s warm vocals and the soothing rhythm leave a strong impression, making it a classic that resonates with listeners.
Released in October 1997, it also became familiar as the CM song for Sapporo Beer’s “Sapporo Fuyumonogatari.” It was a popular track that reached No.
16 on the Oricon charts.
It’s the perfect song to listen to on a cold winter night, snuggled up with your loved one.
It will surely wrap your heart in warmth.
Scarletsupittsu
“Scarlet” is the 15th single by Spitz, released in 1997.
It was chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama series Toshiba Sunday Theater “Melody,” starring Kyoko Koizumi and Kaoru Kobayashi, and it reached No.
1 on the Oricon singles chart.
The following year, it was included on their eighth original album, “Fake Fur,” and in 2012 it was also used in a corporate commercial for Mitsui Life.
It’s a classic that showcases vocalist Masamune Kusano’s soaring voice—be sure to give it a listen!
promiseHirose Kōmi
When it comes to singer-songwriter Kōmi Hirose—nicknamed the “Queen of Winter”—her 1997 hit song is Promise.
It was her 11th single and was used in a commercial for the sporting goods company Alpen.
It reached No.
4 on the Oricon Singles Chart and sold a total of 542,000 copies, making it her second best-selling single.
Despite being a winter song, the intro featuring gut guitar and accordion has a summery, Latin feel—the contrast makes it a fascinating classic!
My Baby Grand ~Wanting Warmth~ZARD
ZARD’s 23rd single, “My Baby Grand ~Nukumori ga Hoshikute~,” is a winter song about heartbreak.
Released in 1997 and featured in an NTT DoCoMo commercial, it reached No.
3 on the Oricon singles chart.
The “Baby Grand” in the title is said to be the name of the toy piano that vocalist Izumi Sakai used to check pitch during recording.
The lyrics, which express a longing for warmth in the cold winter, are truly heartrending.