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 (11–20)
Winter is starting.Makihara Noriyuki
A singer-songwriter who has released countless megahits—both his own originals and songs written for other artists—Noriyuki Makihara put out his fourth single in 1991 (Heisei 3).
Used as the CM song for Sapporo Beer’s “Fuyu Monogatari,” it features a catchy combination of a striking melodic leap in the chorus and a bouncy shuffle beat.
The lyrics evoke the arrival of winter, linking to year-end scenes with more drinking occasions like year-end parties, and for many listeners it’s a real mood lifter.
His soft, bright vocals make you forget the winter chill—a classic winter song.
Winter Fantasykazan
This is the third single released in 1995 (Heisei 7) by Cousin, a pop duo formed by two cousins, and it is their biggest hit.
It was used in Sapporo Beer’s “Fuyu Monogatari” (Winter Story) commercial, with singer Noriyuki Makihara—known for “Fuyu ga Hajimaru yo,” which was featured in the same ad campaign three times—participating on chorus.
The song has been included on more than ten compilation albums collecting love ballads and winter songs.
You can see that it’s embraced as a classic winter tune, loved by a wide range of listeners across generations.
Winter TaleNEW!Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu
A winter ballad by Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE, marked by delicate sounds from the intro that fall like snow.
Released in October 2013 as their 10th single, it’s a medium-tempo track where poignancy and strength coexist.
The lyrics depict winter scenes and lingering feelings for someone drifting away, making your chest tighten as you listen.
It also drew attention as the ending theme for NTV’s “PON!” and as a commercial song for Huis Ten Bosch.
Included on the album “THE BEST/BLUE IMPACT,” it has long been loved as a winter staple.
The harmony woven by the two vocalists’ contrasting timbres is a must-hear.
It’s a song you’ll want to savor quietly in the skin-craving season or on city corners glowing with illuminations.
orionNEW!Yonezu Kenshi
Emerging from the online scene, Kenshi Yonezu has become a leading figure in today’s music industry.
Released in February 2017, his single “orion” is a mid-tempo track that was used as the ending theme for the popular anime March Comes in Like a Lion.
The lyrics, inspired by constellations shining in the clear winter night sky, poignantly express a wish for a strong bond with someone dear.
With its beautiful sound featuring strings and a prayer-like vocal delivery, the song has continued to be widely loved, with its music video surpassing 100 million views.
As the cold deepens, why not quietly listen under a starry sky, thinking of someone special? It’s a Heisei-era winter classic that lights a warm glow in the heart.
Winter SongKiroro
Among their many hit songs, this winter song is especially popular.
It’s the kind of track you want to listen to while thinking of someone special.
It reminds you just how important it is to have that person by your side.
The repeated chorus sticks in your head.
It was their third single at the time, released in 1998 (Heisei 10).
It was used in Meiji Seika’s “Meltykiss” and “Porte” commercials and featured in their winter campaign.
The lyrics and composition were by Chiharu Tamashiro.
It’s a perfect song for winter.
White LoveSPEED
Many people probably find themselves wanting to listen to this song when winter comes.
It’s SPEED’s fifth single, released in October 1997, and their biggest hit.
It was also used in a Shiseido “Tessera Angel Drop” commercial, featuring all the members.
There’s also the story that this song marked their first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, where they led the Red Team for two consecutive years.
The lyrics, which liken a pure, heartrending love to white snow, resonate deeply.
It’s not a Christmas song, but one that suits the cold and chill of winter—somehow warming the heart while being a powerful, uplifting track.
Winter hit songs released in the Heisei era. Masterpieces that colored the winters of the Heisei era (21–30)
My Gift to YouCHEMISTRY
A quintessential winter song by CHEMISTRY that resonates deeply with listeners.
Released in 2003 as a limited advance single of 100,000 copies from their smash-hit album “Second to None,” it sold out the same day—an extraordinary feat.
The lyrics delicately depict winter scenes and profound feelings for a loved one, leaving a strong impression.
They convey the desire to stand by and support someone grappling with fear of change and loneliness, striking a chord in the heart.
Showcasing CHEMISTRY’s stunning harmonies and vocal prowess, it’s a perfect track for the colder season.
A heartwarming winter ballad you’ll want to listen to with someone special.