[2026] Christmas Songs You’ll Want to Play on Guitar: A Collection of Classic Favorites Perfect for Solo Performances

Dear SantaKoresawa

Please, Santa Claus / Koresawa (Acoustic Studio Cover)

A Christmas song by Koresawa that perfectly suits this season when winter arrives and our thoughts turn to Christmas.

This piece has been performed live since her indie days, and in November 2023 it finally received a long-awaited official release.

Its medium-tempo band sound is soothing, and the gentle tones centered on piano and guitar let you feel both tenderness and wistfulness at the same time.

The lyrics convey feelings for a loved one and the courage to let go of the past, inviting deep empathy as they encourage you to reflect on your emotions on the special day of Christmas.

It’s easy to play at a relaxed tempo, and performed as a solo with voice and instrument, it will gently color the atmosphere of a quiet Christmas party.

Merry Christmas EveryoneShakin’ Stevens

Merry Christmas Everyone (Shakin’ Stevens) Acoustic Guitar Tutorial

Shakin’ Stevens, who dominated the UK charts in the 1980s with a musical style rooted in 1950s rock ’n’ roll.

Released in November 1985, this work is his signature song that reached Christmas Number One.

It paints warm Christmas scenes—snow falling, children at play, and kisses under the mistletoe—letting you fully savor the festive spirit atop a poppy, catchy melody.

While it has the bright flair of a carol, there are few parts that require belting, making it approachable for guitar-and-vocal performances.

It’s a number that will warmly enliven Christmas settings like parties or family gatherings.

Who’s knocking on the door? (Boy’s Life pt.1: A Christmas Story)Ozawa Kenji

Kenji Ozawa “Who Is Knocking on the Door?”

This is the eighth single by Kenji Ozawa, released in 1995, issued as a single cut from the album “LIFE.” Its bright, feel-good sound weaves together a melody that pays homage to the Jackson 5 and lush strings, while the lyrics paint winter scenes like Harajuku, Tokyo Tower, duffle coats, and Christmas.

The song is also known for the “Doorknock Dance,” a live choreography where the audience sways side to side, creating a unifying, exhilarating atmosphere.

If you try performing it solo, keep the bouncy rhythm in mind and sing with a light touch.

AnnaKai Band

"Anna" by Kai Band with riff TAB [Chord Sheet, TAB Sheet]

A signature hit by Kai Band, a group that has led Japan’s rock scene, released in October 1979 and peaking at No.

4 on the Oricon charts.

Using evocative motifs like night trains, Christmas candles, and lonely letters, the lyrics portray a longing for a faraway lover and the aching hope for reunion.

The arrangement was handled by Kai Band, with string arrangement by Takahiko Ishikawa, and its dramatic structure—from a melodic guitar intro into swelling strings—is particularly compelling.

Included on the album “Here We Come the (3→)4 Sounds,” it has long been cherished by fans as a song they want to hear during the Christmas season.

With the lyrical melodies and dynamic contrasts characteristic of kayō rock, it’s also a great piece for honing expressiveness when performing solo with guitar.

Can’t Wait ‘Til ChristmasUtada Hikaru

Can’t Wait ‘Til Christmas / Hikaru Utada Cover by Emi Noda (NodaEmi)

Hikaru Utada’s song, which delicately portrays the chill of winter and the eager anticipation of Christmas, is full of charm that makes you want to play it on guitar.

Released in November 2010, this track carries a warm message of looking forward to spending time with someone special, making it perfect for a solo guitar performance.

On a quiet winter night, it might be nice to sing and play it while imagining a Christmas Eve spent just the two of you.

If you picture Utada’s delicate vocals and let your singing ride on the sound of the guitar, it’s sure to resonate with listeners.

How about performing it as entertainment at a Christmas party or as a gift for someone important to you?

Tonight’s ChristmasKawasaki Takaya

Takaya Kawasaki_Christmas Tonight

A heartwarming wave of emotion washes over you—this is a Christmas song masterpiece created by Takaya Kawasaki! Released in November 2020 as his second single, it centers on the theme of wanting to express feelings on that special Christmas day that you can’t usually put into words.

Wrapped in an acoustic sound, the gentle melody further enhances the warmth of Christmas and its romantic atmosphere.

While it doesn’t require advanced technique, what matters is capturing the song’s mood and worldview and performing it in your own way.

When singing and playing it on guitar, try singing softly, as if you’re sharing cherished memories with someone special.

Someday Merry ChristmasB’z

(With TAB) B’z / ‘Itsukano Merry Christmas’ Fingerstyle Solo Guitar by Ryuzo (Request)

A song by B’z, the iconic two-piece rock unit representing Japan.

Although it’s a track from a mini-album that wasn’t released as a single, it’s one of B’z’s signature songs, widely known and loved not only by fans but also by many non-fans.

The guitar throughout—solos included—is played entirely on acoustic, whose delicate and beautiful tone, distinct from electric guitar, enhances the Christmas atmosphere.

Because the main technique is a relaxed arpeggio, it’s approachable for beginner guitarists, and since it’s a well-known song, it’s perfect for singing and playing at parties or as entertainment.

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