Songs to Play at the End of 2026! A Roundup of New Year’s Eve and Winter J‑Pop

promiseSHO

[PLANJ] ORIGINAL: 'Promise' – SHO

JO1 was formed through the 2019 audition program PRODUCE 101 JAPAN.

SHO, the group’s leader, released his solo track in November 2025.

This song fulfills a pledge he made during the audition period—“When I debut, I’ll create my own song and perform it”—coming to fruition about six years later.

The lyrics were written by SHO himself and trace his journey from the days he pursued a singing career in Tokyo to becoming a member of JO1, and the feelings that followed.

Beginning with the stifling chill of the cold season and unfolding into a will to change and a resolve to keep singing, the words capture the intensity of the moment he keeps his promise to his past self.

The song was first performed at his solo stage in January 2025 and was also released through the YouTube project PLANJ.

Give it a listen when you want to face yourself in the crisp winter air or when you need the courage to take a step toward your dreams.

Snow BlossomNakajima Mika

Mika Nakashima 'Yuki no Hana' Music Video

A delicate winter song that sings of gazing at falling snow with a loved one and discovering true love.

It’s one of singer and actress Mika Nakashima’s signature tracks, released as her 10th single in 2003 and a major hit.

In 2019, a film based on the song was also released.

Both the sound and her vocals are truly beautiful—like snowflakes that softly melt and vanish.

If couples or spouses listen to it together, they’ll surely be reminded of how precious the person beside them is, so by all means, give it a listen.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Araki Jakkan

Report a problem

era; age; time; periodNakajima Miyuki

Era – Miyuki Nakajima (Full)

“Jidai,” one of Miyuki Nakajima’s signature songs, was released in 1975 and is a classic that has been covered by countless artists.

It’s a gentle piece filled with hope and encouragement, conveying that even after tough times, you’ll eventually be able to smile again.

When you look back on the year, so much happens.

To end the year facing forward with a smile, this is a highly recommended song for your year-end wrap-up.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Tani Satoko

Report a problem

Heart color ~ a song for the wonderful year ~Fukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Heart Color ~a song for the wonderful year~ (Full ver.)

This year is already coming to an end, and even though there are still things I haven’t managed to do…

At a time like this, when we’re heading into year’s end, I want to recommend Masaharu Fukuyama’s “Kokoro Color ~a song for the wonderful year~.” It has a feeling of helping you settle in and get yourself set up, and I think it will encourage both those who’ve been running nonstop and those who are about to take on new challenges.

Above all, the slightly mischievous, popping intro and the rhythmic singing will lift your spirits! Times and feelings may change, but this is a pep song that inspires you to believe in your principles and move straight ahead.

And it’s not just for year’s end—definitely give it a listen whenever you want to boost your motivation!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KEI

Report a problem

Light of Firefliesshouka

Light of Fireflies

I think many of you remember singing it when you were students.

It’s the school song “Hotaru no Hikari,” which has been loved in Japan for many years.

The image many people have is that it’s the song that plays right before a store—like a supermarket—closes.

But in fact, this song is actually a New Year’s song.

It originally comes from the Scottish folk song “Auld Lang Syne,” which was sung at celebrations.

So it’s also sung around New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

The idea of it being a farewell song is unique to Japan.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Araki Jakkan

Report a problem

4 SEASONSXG

XG – 4 SEASONS (Official Music Video)

A work whose gentle acoustic sound resonates in the heart, as if melting into the clear winter air.

Created by the globally active XG, this track was released digitally in December 2025 as a lead single from their first full album, “THE CORE,” set for release in January 2026.

It’s a ballad sung by CHISA, HINATA, and JURIA, with lyrics that layer unspoken emotions onto the shifting of the seasons—both bittersweet and warm.

Their delicate vocals bring a soothing comfort that spreads slowly, like warmth seeping into a chilled body.

by all means; no matter what; at any costback number

Want Want Want

back number is a three-piece band whose sound brings warmth to the winter chill.

Released digitally in December 2025, this track was written as the theme song for NHK’s “NHK Winter Sports.” It’s also set to be used in broadcasts of the 2026 Winter Olympics, making it a grand piece that adds color to the emotion of live sports coverage.

More than just a flashy cheer song, the lyrics depict lingering, unshakable feelings and inner conflict, stirring the hearts of listeners.

Its message affirms not only the results but also the journey and even the gritty emotions along the way, gently encouraging anyone who’s in the midst of a challenge.

It’s a powerful yet earnest mid-tempo number that rings out in the clear winter air.