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 from 1990s J-POP: A roundup of popular winter tracks (31–40)
Silent EveKarashima Midori
Midori Karashima’s classic “Silent Eve” became a hit after being used as the theme song for the 1990 drama Christmas Eve.
Its poignant lyrics won widespread popularity, and even today it’s often heard in the winter on cable radio and as background music around town.
It topped the weekly Oricon chart and ranked 12th on Oricon’s 1991 year-end chart, marking a major hit and significant commercial success.
This time, I’ve chosen a version with a classical arrangement! It offers a charm distinct from the original, so be sure to check it out!
Sorrow like snowHamada Shogo
The original version was released in 1981, but the song didn’t attract much attention at the time.
Later, however, it was chosen as the theme song for the 1992 drama “Ai to Iu Na no Moto ni,” and a remade version was released, turning it into a popular hit.
It’s a wonderful track with a chorus that expands beautifully and feels so pleasant!
Memorial SnowTRF
A wistful winter ballad included on TRF’s 2009 single.
Drawing attention as an answer song that carries on the world of their earlier signature track “Samui Yoru Dakara…,” it’s a poignant work that speaks to feelings for someone lost, set against the scene of powdery snow falling.
The song was also used in a Takasu Clinic commercial and as the theme for the 60th Sapporo Snow Festival.
It’s a winter tune that accompanies those who want to spend a winter night reflecting on past love, or who have experienced parting with someone dear.
Entrust me with eternity.DEEN
DEEN is an indispensable presence when talking about 1990s J‑POP.
Among the many commercial tie-in songs they’ve produced, they released “Eien o Azukete Kure” in 1994.
It portrays a warm story of lovers who meet in a town where white snow is falling.
You’ll also be soothed by Shuichi Ikemori’s sweet vocals as he sings about the feelings of waiting to meet in front of the station.
With a gentle band arrangement that seems to wrap up winter’s cold and loneliness, the song resonates deeply.
Give this winter tune a listen and let its trendy-drama-like world unfold around you.
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.
90s J-pop winter songs. A roundup of popular winter tracks (41–50)
God of RomanceHirose Kōmi
Known as the “Queen of Winter,” Kōmi Hirose is famous for scoring many winter song hits in the 1990s.
Having composed since childhood and trained in classical music with a degree from Kunitachi College of Music, her signature song is arguably “Romance no Kamisama,” released in 1993.
It was used in a ski equipment store commercial, and I fondly remember how it went on to be played all over town as a winter staple.
Interestingly, if you actually read the lyrics—plainspoken lines expressing a woman’s true feelings—you’ll notice there aren’t any keywords that directly evoke winter.
If you’re looking for a song that is explicitly a winter tune, be sure to check out “GELENDE ga Tokeru Hodo Koi Shitai,” released in 1995!
ChristmasJUDY AND MARY
This is a Christmas song by JUDY AND MARY, who took the music scene of the ’90s by storm.
Rather than dazzling presents, it portrays a straightforward longing to simply spend time with the one you love, which leaves you with such a warm feeling, doesn’t it? While the track is a guitar-driven rock number brimming with the band’s signature speed, YUKI’s cute vocals blend in to create a bittersweet yet sweet atmosphere.
Included on the single “Cheese “PIZZA”,” released in November 1994, the song was also used for Tokai Bank’s Christmas campaign.
It’s a buoyant, happy tune that’s perfect not only for a night with your significant other, but also for livening up a party with friends.