Lovely Christmas

Heisei-era Christmas songs and classic tracks you want to listen to in winter

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

Every winter, Christmas songs begin to flow through the city.

Many tracks born in the Heisei era remain etched in our hearts as timeless favorites that are still just as popular today.

Those nostalgic melodies we can’t help but hum bring back lyrics filled with memories of lovers, warm times spent with family, and unforgettable scenes from TV dramas.

This Christmas season, experience the charm of these songs that continue to be loved even after the Heisei era ended.

Here are Christmas songs from the Heisei generation where nostalgia and freshness intersect.

Heisei-era Christmas songs and classic tracks to listen to in winter (31–40)

On the holy nightKetsumeishi

Ketsumeishi 'On the Holy Night'

On the holy nightKetsumeishi

A warm love song by Ketsumeishi that portrays a couple’s first Christmas together.

Released in November 2007 as a double A-side single with “Fuyu Monogatari,” this track is filled with the excitement of a special holy night spent with a loved one amid bustling crowds and sparkling illuminations.

With a medium tempo and the comfortable flows of Ryo and Ōkura gently tickling the ears, it’s easy to hum along even for those who aren’t into rap.

It reached No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and earned Gold Disc certification.

The music video features Kei Tanaka, and its drama-style direction heightens the Christmassy thrill even more.

It’s the perfect song for a Christmas date—one to listen to while savoring the joy of spending the holiday with your partner this year.

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Before winter endsShimizu Shota

Before winter ends

Before winter endsShimizu Shota

Released in December 2011 as his 12th single, this song by Shota Shimizu is a winter love ballad that portrays the longing and hopes of lovers spending the season apart.

Blending R&B and soul with his warm vocals, it serves as an anthem for couples enduring time apart.

The music video features Shota Sometani and Nako Mizusawa, and even includes hidden coded messages, which sparked buzz.

Capturing both the sparkle of the pre-Christmas mood and the frustration of not being able to meet despite wanting to, this track is a must-listen for anyone who struggles to see someone special due to work or distance.

Written and composed by Shota Shimizu himself, the lyrics carefully weave winter scenes that resonate deeply.

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Angel Song – Eve’s Bellthe brilliant green

[HD] the brilliant green – angel song - Eve's Bell

Angel Song - Eve's Bellthe brilliant green

The brilliant green is a band that delivers a unique sound infused with UK rock and pop.

Their 2000 release “angel song -Eve no Kane-” was also used as the theme song for the drama Midsummer Merry Christmas.

Opening with moist, atmospheric guitar and her languid vocals, the track unfolds alongside lyrics that feel like a wish sent to someone dear who’s far away.

It’s a rock number where the passionate band performance intertwines with a chorus that spreads a fantastical winter scene, resonating with a poignant ache.

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Cinderella ChristmasKinKi Kids

KinKi Kids “Cinderella Christmas” Music Video

Cinderella ChristmasKinKi Kids

A romantic Christmas song that sings of sweet yet bittersweet love.

It begins with a scene of two people warming each other’s hands on a train platform, and the lyrics depict the time they spend together as if in a dream.

KinKi Kids’ clear, translucent vocals beautifully express both the tenderness and the ache of love.

Originally released in December 1998 and re-released in December 2007, this piece is cherished by many as an essential song for the Christmas season.

It’s perfect as background music for a date while enjoying the city’s holiday lights or for spending Christmas Eve with someone special.

Its heartwarming melody and lyrics will make your special night even more wonderful.

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Together…MAX

MAX / Together...

Together...MAX

A bittersweet love story is depicted in “Issho ni…”.

This is a song released by the music group MAX in 1999.

While they are strongly associated with danceable tracks, this piece is crafted as a mid-tempo ballad.

The date scenes of the couple portrayed in the song are sure to make your heart flutter.

By the way, an arranged version titled “Issho ni… (Happiness 2020)” was also released in 2020.

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