Winter hit songs released in the Heisei era. Classic tracks that colored the winters of the Heisei period.
The Heisei era was a golden age with many million-selling songs and booming CD sales.
From among the many tracks that lit up that dazzling Japanese music scene, we’ve gathered a selection of “winter songs.”
These winter hits are nostalgic, and many of them are still heard today.
It’s packed with songs that remain karaoke favorites and frequently appear in music program specials!
Whether you’re from the generation that looks back on those youthful days, or you’re younger and discovering them for the first time, enjoy these hit winter songs from the Heisei era!
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Winter hit songs released in the Heisei era. Masterpieces that colored the winters of the Heisei era (1–10)
God of RomanceHirose Kōmi
When it comes to queens of winter songs, Kohmi Hirose tops the list.
Her track “Romance no Kamisama,” released in 1993 (Heisei 5) as her third single, became a massive hit! Even though the lyrics aren’t about winter, it was used in commercials for the ski gear shop Alpen, which led to it becoming beloved as a winter song.
It’s a bright, upbeat, danceable tune and a love song that captures an office worker’s everyday life.
With so many events in the winter season, it’s sure to get the crowd going at karaoke!
Lovers AgainEXILE
A signature J-R&B ballad that poignantly sings of a bittersweet love set in a winter town.
Known as one of EXILE’s hallmark songs, it was released in January 2007.
The protagonist’s feelings as they think of a former lover they parted with amid the first snowfall are drawn with aching tenderness, resonating deeply with listeners.
It was also featured in commercials for au’s “LISMO” and FUJITSU’s “FMV,” earning love from a wide audience.
The lyrics by Kiyoshi Matsuo and the melody by Jin Nakamura blend beautifully, resulting in a track that strikes the heart.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when healing the pain of heartbreak or wishing to be reunited with someone precious.
White LoversKuwata Keisuke
The winter masterpiece ballad released by Keisuke Kuwata in 2001 is a gem that portrays a heartrending love.
The image of beautifully blessing a past romance on a quiet winter night as snow piles up is striking.
It was used in commercials for Coca-Cola and UNIQLO, and loved by a wide range of generations.
It topped both the weekly and monthly Oricon charts and became a huge hit, selling 1.231 million copies.
It remains the best-selling solo single of Kuwata’s career.
When the cold season makes you want to look back on warm memories, give it a listen.
Its soul-stirring vocals and beautiful melody are sure to warm your heart as well.
Winter hit songs released in the Heisei era. Masterpieces that colored the winters of the Heisei era (11–20)
Cinderella ChristmasNEW!KinKi Kids
A classic winter song by KinKi Kids, perfect for the glittering season.
Released in December 1998 as a double A-side with the single “Happy Happy Greeting,” this track features lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto, whose romantic lines—modeled after the fairy tale Cinderella—leave a lasting impression.
With imagery like glass slippers and watching the clock, it captures those bittersweet yet happy moments shared by lovers.
At the time, it was released as a limited edition of one million copies and soared to No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
The lavish strings and comfortable tempo make it ideal for a nighttime drive date under holiday lights.
Revisit this timeless song loved across generations and enjoy it again this winter!
STRIPE!NEW!Makihara Noriyuki
This beloved winter classic by Noriyuki Makihara—familiar to many as the CM song for Alpen’s “Alpen Winter Fair”—was released in 1998! From the intro, shimmering synthesizer tones ring out, vividly conjuring the contrast between pure white snowy landscapes and bright blue skies.
Makihara handled the lyrics, composition, and arrangement himself, and his pop sensibility—turning even winter’s chill into a thrilling sense of excitement—is nothing short of genius.
The chorus opens up the view all at once, overflowing with a sense of freedom, making it the perfect track for the slopes, whether you’re skiing or snowboarding.
Also included on the album “Cicada,” this song continues to shine as the ideal in-car BGM on your way to winter leisure.
EverythingMISIA
This is one of MISIA’s signature songs, showcasing her overwhelming vocal ability and five-octave range.
Released in October 2000, it became a huge hit as the theme song for the drama “Yamato Nadeshiko.” It even ranked 30th on Oricon’s all-time singles chart, and is considered one of the iconic winter songs of the Heisei era.
The music video was filmed at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, where tons of salt were reportedly used in place of snow.
The beautiful melodic line and MISIA’s vocals blend perfectly to express deep love and gratitude, drawing listeners into the song’s world from the string-rich intro.
The lyrics, which sing of profound love and bonds for a lover or someone dear, are sure to resonate with many.
It’s also a karaoke staple beloved by fans.
Winter,againGLAY
Known as one of GLAY’s signature songs, this track centers on themes of a harsh winter landscape and nostalgia.
Set against the snowy scenery of Hokkaido, TAKURO’s hometown, it portrays feelings for a loved one in a way that resonates deeply.
Released in 1999, it was also used as the campaign song for JR East’s “JR SKI SKI,” becoming an anthem that signals the arrival of winter.
The intro is said to have been composed with the theme song from the film Titanic in mind, giving it a distinctive dramatic flair.
It’s an authentic winter song that enhances the feeling of the season when listened to in the cold months.