Japanese music edition: roundup of Christmas songs. New tracks and classic favorites [2026]

December Rainchay

chay – “December Rain” Rec Ver.

Chay’s “December Rain” was used as the theme song for the drama “Jimi ni Sugoi! Koetsu Girl Kono Etsuko,” starring Satomi Ishihara.

The song is a cover of a single released in 1974 during Yumi Matsutoya’s “Arai Yumi” era.

In addition to chay, other well-known artists have also covered it.

Although it’s a number that evokes sadness and a love that has ended, the lyrics—quintessential of Yumi Matsutoya’s musical style—feel somehow forward-looking: sorrowful yet bright, and deeply moving.

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Christmas EveYuuri

Yuuri 'Christmas Eve' Official Music Video

A perfect wintery Christmas song by Yuuri.

It suits a day when snow falls quietly.

Despite its gentle, subdued tone, the climactic moments are sure to soar.

Released in November 2022 as a digital-only single, this was Yuuri’s first Christmas song.

It links the themes of lost love and loneliness to the special day of Christmas Eve, expressing them in a way that lets the sorrow of two lovers—scattering like the lights of illuminations coloring the cold air—sink in deeply.

Those who have experienced heartbreak will likely feel as if it’s their own story when they listen on a quiet night.

Kissin’ Christmas (Not Because It’s Christmas) 2023Kuwata Keisuke & Matsutoya Yumi

Keisuke Kuwata & Yumi Matsutoya – Kissin’ Christmas (It’s Not Because It’s Christmas) 2023 [Special Lyric Video]

A heartwarming duet about Christmas love by two of Japan’s most iconic artists, Keisuke Kuwata and Yumi Matsutoya.

Released digitally in November 2023, this gem of a love song blends their profound musical sensibilities.

It gently portrays lovers becoming Santa Claus for one another, exchanging gifts of love and evoking the special atmosphere of Christmas night.

Kuwata’s warm vocals and Matsutoya’s crystal-clear harmonies merge beautifully, adding color to a holy night spent with someone dear.

A gift of love more precious than any present—listening to this piece will surely deepen the bonds you share with your partner or family.

1999Hitsuji Bungaku

Hitsujibungaku “1999” (Official Music Video)

A song set on Christmas Eve of 1999 that portrays the end-of-century atmosphere and shifting emotions.

Through childhood memories and the protagonist’s relationship with a loved one, it expresses an inner conflict.

Released in December 2018, it later received an English version in November 2021.

The lyrics evoke deep emotion with their sense of nostalgia for the past, melancholy at the close of an era, and hope for a new beginning.

It’s the kind of song you can’t help but stop and listen to when it plays in town or on special TV programs.

A heartwarming Christmas song you’ll want to share with someone special.

Pearl-White EveMatsuda Seiko

Pearl-White Eve (2025)

A winter classic by Seiko Matsuda that conjures up a dreamy scene coloring the holy night.

With lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and music by Senri Oe, this song is also known for becoming the first Japanese Christmas song to top the Oricon Weekly Chart.

On a night when pearl-like snow falls, you share a quiet, sacred moment with someone dear.

The pure wish for that time to last forever overlaps with Matsuda’s crystal-clear vocals, warmly enveloping the listener’s heart.

Released as a single in November 1987, it also appears in a different version on the album “Snow Garden.” It’s a gem of a winter song—perfect for sinking into a romantic mood on a winter night in a cozy room.

The Night When Holy Bells Resoundtanpopo

Dandelion – 04 The Night When the Sacred Bell Rings

It’s about spending Christmas with a lover, with the wish that “this love will last forever” woven into the lyrics.

The song is performed by the original three members of Tanpopo—Aya Ishiguro, Kaori Iida, and Mari Yaguchi—and it became the final CD for Morning Musume & Tanpopo before Aya Ishiguro graduated.

Xmas giftAYANE

AYANE / Xmas gift(Lyric Video)

A Christmas song brimming with a romantic atmosphere has arrived.

AYANE’s clear vocals leave a strong impression, and the fast-paced, pop sound resonates pleasantly.

Filled with messages of love and gratitude for someone special, this work evokes a magical Christmas mood.

It was released on December 6, 2023, and a lyric video premiered on YouTube the following day.

It’s a song you’ll want to play during those special Christmas moments with a partner or family.