Lovely hit song

Winter songs in 90s J-pop: a roundup of popular winter tunes

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.
Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

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!

Winter songs of 90s J-POP. A roundup of popular winter tunes (91–100)

I’ll surely never forgetZARD

I’ll surely never forget

I’ll surely never forgetZARD

This song by ZARD delivers a warm sense of hope that won’t yield to winter’s cold.

The lyrics embody the strength to keep looking forward, even after experiencing a painful farewell, without forgetting feelings for a loved one.

Izumi Sakai’s clear, translucent voice resonates as if gently staying close to the listener’s heart.

Released in June 1993, the track was also used as a TV drama theme song, capturing the hearts of many.

Included on the album “Forever Best ~25th Anniversary~,” it has remained one of ZARD’s signature songs, cherished over the years.

If you listen to it on a winter night alone, it will surely warm your heart.

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a walk in the parkAmuro Namie

Namie Amuro – a walk in the park 1997

a walk in the parkAmuro Namie

When it comes to classic winter-themed love ballads, you can’t leave out this song by Namie Amuro! With its upbeat rhythm and bright melody, it’s a track that warms the heart even in the cold season.

At first glance it seems to depict a stroll in a park, but it actually conveys the anxiety and anticipation of waiting for a reply to a confession.

Released in November 1996, it surpassed 1.1 million copies shipped.

It was also used in commercials and has left a deep impression across generations.

Listen to it on a long winter night or a chilly day, and it’s sure to spark a positive feeling in your heart.

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90s J-POP winter songs. Popular winter tracks roundup (101–110)

DEAR…againHirose Kōmi

Kohmi Hirose – DEAR…again (Official Video)

DEAR...againHirose Kōmi

As a warm song that accompanies the winter season, Kohmi Hirose’s works continue to captivate the hearts of many listeners.

This piece is a classic that poignantly sings of parting from and reuniting with a lover.

The lyrics, woven with her clear, translucent voice, are filled with longing for a lover far away, and the warmth of love—set in contrast to the winter cold—resonates deeply.

Released in November 1996, the song was also used in an Alpen commercial and became beloved by many.

It’s the kind of track you’ll want to listen to on a winter night while thinking of someone you love.

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In conclusion

We’ve brought you a selection of wonderful winter songs born in the ’90s. These masterpieces sing of longing and warmth that stand out all the more in this icy season. They’ve lost none of their luster over time and are the kind of tracks you’ll want to revisit whenever winter arrives. Whether you remember those days or belong to a younger generation, on a cold night, lend an ear to these winter songs and spend some time gently filling your heart.