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 (21–30)
Winter TaleSandaime 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.
orionYonezu 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.
Merry XmasBoA
A gem of a winter song sung by BoA.
The lyrics, depicting lovers huddled together in the falling snow and pledging eternal love, make your heart skip a beat every time you listen.
Released in December 2004, the song was also featured in a commercial for Toshiba’s W21T, becoming a memorable hit for many.
During the music video shoot, they used real first snow that fell in Tomamu, Hokkaido, creating a perfect contrast between the cold conveyed on screen and the warmth of her vocals.
It’s perfect as background music for spending Christmas with someone you love, and also for singing tenderly at karaoke to convey your feelings to someone special.
Give this beloved winter classic a listen!
Snow Magic FantasySEKAI NO OWARI
A winter song that lets you feel a heart-lifting exhilaration with its fantastical snowy scenery and lively, marching band–style sound.
It overflows with SEKAI NO OWARI’s signature sense of fantasy, depicting a love story like a tale.
Released in January 2014, the track was written specifically for JR East’s JR SKISKI commercial, and its striking finish comes from layering a majestic arrangement over a refreshing melody.
It’s perfect for the trip to the slopes or for enjoying a winter date while gazing at illuminations.
A song that captures the excitement and butterflies of a White Christmas, it’s sure to liven up karaoke during the holiday season.
marine snowSukima Suichi
A ballad with a striking, crystal-clear melody that evokes the deep sea.
Released in 2007 and peaking at No.
3 on the Oricon chart, the song was also featured in a Meiji Seika “Almond Chocolate” commercial, drawing attention for its wintry, bittersweet sound.
The lyrics delicately trace the flow of time and the heart’s subtle tremors, painting a scene where feelings for a loved one quietly accumulate.
It’s a warm, quintessential Sukima Switch track that gently stays by your side when you want to look deep within yourself during the cold season.