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

Miracle Starter ~Snow Flakes in the Future~V6

MIRACLE STARTER ~Snow Flakes in the Future~

This is a hidden gem that represents the early days of V6, the idol group that blazed through the ’90s with numerous hit songs! Winter often brings to mind wistful ballads, but this track is an upbeat winter song, sparkling with a lively dance beat and a positive message.

Released on the mini-album “GREETING” in December 1996 and later selected for the best-of compilation “Very best,” it’s a huge favorite among fans.

In 1997, it also aired in households across Japan as a corporate commercial song for Tsuburaya Productions, so many people may remember it.

Its uplifting worldview gives a powerful push to those welcoming a new year or taking on a challenge.

Let their youthful, energetic vocals blow away the winter chill and give you a boost!

Winter OrcaKirinji

Fuyu No Orca

This masterpiece, with lyrics themed around a sea creature mentioned in the title, captures winter scenes from a unique perspective.

Produced by the master Keiichi Tomita, its sophisticated sound weaves a brisk beat with a slightly twisted melody line, creating a depth that clearly sets it apart from a typical love song.

Released in November 1997 as their second single during their indie period, it was later included on the following year’s album Paper Drivers Music, and has continued to be cherished by fans as a work emblematic of the early days of the brother duo.

If you’re looking for intelligent, urban pop that’s a bit different from the usual winter songs, this is a perfect fit.

A work that could be called the origin of Kirinji—be sure to listen with your own ears.

STRIPE!Makihara Noriyuki

STRIPE!

This beloved winter classic by Noriyuki Makihara—familiar to many as the CM song for Alpen’s “Alpen Winter Fair”—was released in 1998! From the intro, shimmering synthesizer tones ring out, vividly conjuring the contrast between pure white snowy landscapes and bright blue skies.

Makihara handled the lyrics, composition, and arrangement himself, and his pop sensibility—turning even winter’s chill into a thrilling sense of excitement—is nothing short of genius.

The chorus opens up the view all at once, overflowing with a sense of freedom, making it the perfect track for the slopes, whether you’re skiing or snowboarding.

Also included on the album “Cicada,” this song continues to shine as the ideal in-car BGM on your way to winter leisure.

Season TrainRAZZ MA TAZZ

Season Train / RAZZ MA TAZZ [Official]

RAZZ MA TAZZ’s song released in the mid-’90s beautifully captures the shift from autumn to winter.

Chosen as the CM song for Bourbon’s “Pickle EX” and the ending theme for All Night Nippon, it became one of the band’s signature tracks, etched into the hearts of many listeners.

Released as a single in October 1995, it reached No.

28 on the Oricon chart and is also included on their third album, PRESENT.

Its refreshing melody and delicate lyrics create a world that warmly resonates with anyone who has experienced love and heartbreak.

It’s a song you’ll want to play on a winter night while thinking of someone special.

somedayyuzu

Itsuka

This is a song by the folk duo Yuzu that seems to capture the winter air and the emotions within it.

Released in 1999 as the title track of a single, it’s notable that the other songs on the single also share a winter theme.

The sound throughout emphasizes a gentle atmosphere, which makes the message of the lyrics feel more direct.

It’s a powerful song that stays close to a heart growing lonelier as the air gradually turns colder, offering words of encouragement along the way.

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kappamaki

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Christmas Love (After the Tears, White Snow Falls)Sazan Ōrusutāzu

Christmas Love (After the Tears, White Snow Falls)

When it comes to timeless songs that tenderly depict winter scenes, this track surely comes to mind.

Released by Southern All Stars in November 1993, it was featured in Marui’s Christmas campaign commercials.

The lyrics, which sing of longing for a loved one far away, resonate deeply with many listeners.

Keisuke Kuwata’s delicate vocals blend perfectly with the band’s warm sound.

Certified Platinum and peaking at No.

3 on the Oricon weekly chart, it’s a beloved hit.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to play on a cold night spent alone, remembering your lover.

snow dropL’Arc〜en〜Ciel

L’Arc-en-Ciel snow drop #LArcenCiel

L’Arc~en~Ciel is a visual kei band with worldwide popularity.

There are a few Japanese artists who can draw a decent crowd in the United States, but aren’t they perhaps the only ones who can bring in audiences on the scale of 50,000 over two days in both Europe and the English-speaking world? Speaking of their winter songs that were hits in the 1990s, snow drop definitely comes to mind.

It was a hit that reached No.

1 on the weekly Oricon chart and also took the top spot on the monthly Oricon rankings for October 1998.

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Ryo

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