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 song roundup (11–20)
Someday Merry ChristmasB’z
Among the many classic ballads B’z have created, this song stands out for its particularly high popularity and name recognition.
It’s also a staple Christmas song, and many younger music listeners likely know it.
Interestingly, it wasn’t released as a single; its first appearance was on the conceptual mini-album “FRIENDS,” released in December 1992.
Since then, it has frequently been included on best-of compilations and has become a beloved song over many years.
The music-box intro that echoes the chorus, the warm-toned acoustic guitar, the lyrics that depict delicate, cinematic scenes and shifting emotions—every element is truly wonderful.
There are many versions of this track as well, so be sure to listen and compare them.
LOVER SOULJUDY AND MARY
JUDY AND MARY’s 13th single, “LOVER SOUL,” was released in October 1997.
It reached No.
5 on the weekly Oricon chart and sold over 500,000 copies, making it a solid hit.
The melody retains a strong rock essence while also carrying a somewhat dreamy atmosphere.
According to YUKI, who wrote the lyrics, she aimed for clarity during the writing process, resulting in a collection of very catchy phrases.
Winter is starting.Makihara Noriyuki
This is a winter-song masterpiece released in November 1991 by Noriyuki Makihara, who had a huge breakthrough that year with “Donna Toki mo.” It was used as the commercial song for Sapporo Beer’s Fuyu Monogatari in the 1991 season, and I’m sure many people enjoy a beer while listening to it, just like the lyrics say.
Beyond the wonderful melody and vocals, and the perfectly crafted sound arrangement that begins with the harmonica in the intro, the lyrics—skillfully contrasting summer memories with the onset of winter—are simply outstanding.
It’s a shining example of the genius singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara at his best.
He has created many other winter songs as well, so be sure to check those out too!
Season TrainRAZZ MA TAZZ
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
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.
falling over youNEW!Chisato
This is the third single by Chisato, the hugely popular guitarist of PENICILLIN, the rock band that led the visual kei boom.
Released in November 1996, this work shifts from his harder image to a relaxed, romantic number that evokes December’s snowy scenes.
The lyrics, which depict the image of snow “pouring down” and the shifting feelings toward a loved one, wrap the listener’s heart in warmth and bittersweet emotion.
In fact, singer-songwriter Mayo Okamoto took part in the chorus, and their reunion during the production of the 2017 best-of album also became a topic of conversation.
It’s the perfect song to listen to while strolling through city streets glowing with illuminations, when you want to soak in a dramatic winter mood.
Winter songs of 90s J-POP. Popular winter songs roundup (21–30)
Christmas Love (After the Tears, White Snow Falls)Sazan Ōrusutāzu
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.