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 songs roundup (21–30)
powder snowCURIO
Powder Snow is a classic winter song released in 1998 by CURIO, a rock band from Osaka.
The track features a catchy, quintessentially ’90s melody line that you’ll find yourself remembering after just one listen.
It also showcases highlights like an extended ’90s-style guitar solo and a smooth, flowing bass line.
If you play instruments in a band—like guitar or bass—you’re sure to get hooked once you give it a listen.
It’s also a great pick as a candidate song for winter music events.
Winter SongKiroro
Kiroro’s third single, “Fuyu no Uta” (“Winter Song”).
It debuted at No.
17 on the Oricon charts and reached No.
12 on the weekly ranking, so those who were of that generation probably still remember it well.
Although it was released in 1998, it was unusually used three years later, in 2001, as the commercial song for Meiji Seika’s Meltykiss and Porte.
The song itself doesn’t feature particularly Christmas-like arrangements, but the catchy, clean melodies that Kiroro excels at are fully present!
BLUE TEARSJUDY AND MARY
This is the second single by JUDY AND MARY, the four-piece band that has become synonymous with female-vocal rock bands in J-POP history.
The song was used as the ending theme for the variety show “Mecha-Mecha Iketeru!” and is memorable for its lyrical imagery that evokes bittersweet romance and snowy landscapes.
Its driving beat, prominent bassline, and sprightly guitar sound support a cute, high-toned vocal that conveys an energetic freshness powerful enough to blow away the winter chill.
It’s a rock tune you’ll want to listen to in winter—pop in melody yet tinged with a touch of melancholy.
Winter Fantasykazan
Winter Fantasy became a major hit after being featured as the theme song for Sapporo Beer’s Fuyu Monogatari (Winter Tale) commercial series.
Released in 1995 by the cousin duo Kazun, it is also known as their signature song.
Its heartwarming choral work gently envelops the chill of winter.
Set in a town where white snow is falling, it portrays a love story between two people whose hearts flutter at the start of a new romance.
Carried by a clear, translucent melody and vocals, it’s a winter song that slowly resonates in the heart.
My Desire ～Beyond Winter～Sing Like Talking
A single by SING LIKE TALKING, a band that carved out a unique place with a sophisticated AOR sound.
With powerful lyrics that feel like pushing through the winter cold and a vibrant, popping rhythm, this song is also known as a tribute to TOTO’s legendary drummer, Jeff Porcaro.
Released in 1992, it became widely known as the theme for Nissan’s Largo commercial.
It’s included on the acclaimed album ENCOUNTER, which topped the Oricon charts, and can be considered a number that symbolizes the band’s golden era.
It carries a soaring warmth that thaws even the iciest season, making it perfect for winter drives.
Chikuzen Sato’s expansive vocals are sure to give you the courage to turn even the cold wind into an ally.
Let’s Play Winterhitomi
Hitomi, whose background as a model and relatable, down-to-earth lyrics have resonated with many women, made her debut under the production of Tetsuya Komuro.
For a winter song from that era, this number is highly recommended.
Released as a single in November 1994, it was used as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s snowboarding program “Action!”.
Its danceable beat infused with R&B elements pairs perfectly with lyrics brimming with playful spirit that celebrates winter.
Later included on the album “GO TO THE TOP” as well as the best-of collection “H,” it remains a foundational work that has been loved for years.
How about playing it in the car on the way to the ski slopes or whenever you want to boost your mood for winter activities?
Christmas For YouMaeda Nobuteru
Did you know that Noriharu Maeda, best known for evoking a strong “summer” image through his work with TUBE, paints a vivid sense of winter in his solo projects? Released in November 1992, this song is a ballad that portrays the shifting emotions of lovers at Christmastime.
Set to a dazzling melody, its warm message resonates in a way that makes even quarrels and misunderstandings feel endearing.
Chosen as the ending theme for the TV show “Big Airport ’92,” it reached No.
10 on the Oricon charts and became widely beloved.
The coupling track, “Merry Christmas To You,” further immerses listeners in the spirit of the holy night.
It’s a song you’ll want to play on an evening spent with someone special, when you want to express your true feelings.