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

Christmas ringAKB48

Kurisumasu Ringu

In contrast to the dazzling cityscape, this is a grown-up Christmas song suffused with a touch of wistfulness.

Performed as a unit song in the AKB48 theater show “Koko Kara da,” which opened in December 2024, it was finally released as the long-awaited studio version on the December 2025 album “Koko Kara da Performance Album (Studio Recordings Collection).” Rather than a lively party tune, this piece delicately portrays the memories and feelings of love that resurface in quiet moments against the backdrop of city neon and fir trees.

The scenes Yasushi Akimoto paints highlight the loneliness that intensifies precisely because of the festive season.

It’s a perfect listen for a silent night when you want to be alone with your thoughts, or when you wish to reflect on cherished memories.

4 SEASONSXG

XG – 4 SEASONS (Official Music Video)

A work whose gentle acoustic sound resonates in the heart, as if melting into the clear winter air.

Created by the globally active XG, this track was released digitally in December 2025 as a lead single from their first full album, “THE CORE,” set for release in January 2026.

It’s a ballad sung by CHISA, HINATA, and JURIA, with lyrics that layer unspoken emotions onto the shifting of the seasons—both bittersweet and warm.

Their delicate vocals bring a soothing comfort that spreads slowly, like warmth seeping into a chilled body.

escortYuuma

Yuma “Escort” Official Music Video

Yuma, a singer who also works as a member of the YouTube creator group Comdot and has drawn attention for his vocal ability and unpretentious choice of words.

Released in December 2025, “Escort” portrays a clumsy yet warm-hearted resolve to gently lead a loved one—just for today—amid scenes that evoke winter’s chill and plumes of white breath.

From casual conversations in a cafeteria to moments playing in the snow, it tenderly captures the cherished sense of distance between two people in everyday life.

Be sure to give this winter love song a listen.

Merry Christmas, My HeartNakamori Akina

Merry Christmas, My Heart

Akina Nakamori, whose one-of-a-kind voice colored the music scene of the Showa era and continues to captivate countless listeners today.

Released in December 2025, this work is a Christmas song composed by Nakamori herself.

The lyrics evoke city lights sparkling on street corners, the distant peal of bells, and a warm drink in your hands, conjuring a serene sense of joy on Christmas Eve.

It’s a sophisticated holiday song that gently accompanies a night spent with someone special or a quiet moment reflecting on the year.

Merry × Merry Xmas★E-girls

E-girls / Merry × Merry Xmas★

A cute and pop Christmas song sung by E-girls, known for their amazing dance performances.

It’s also great for dances at events! Many Christmas songs feel a bit lonely… but this one is a bright, cheerful Christmas tune, making it perfect as BGM for parties and more.

A Snowy ChristmasDREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE – Snowy Christmas -VERSION ’16- (Live from DWL 2015)

A ballad released in 1990, notable for its Christmas-like sound.

It was also used in a Subaru commercial in 2016, so many of you may find it familiar.

The song has a calm, gently falling-snow atmosphere, and Miwa Yoshida’s beautiful, soothing vocals feel wonderfully comforting.

The lyrics express a straightforward, earnest love for someone special.

The image of snow quickly piling up is layered with the growing feelings in the heart, and the portrayal of someone becoming overwhelmed with the desire to confess their love is truly moving.

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Hane Keisuke

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WISHarashi

WISH – Arashi (cover)

This song, which was the theme for the drama Hana Yori Dango starring Jun Matsumoto, is also a Christmas song, isn’t it? The chorus lyrics in particular, along with the Christmas-like sound of the accompaniment, evoke the holiday spirit, and just listening to it conveys the excitement of the season.

On top of that, the lyrics that capture the fluttery feelings before a relationship begins depict a romance that ties into the story of Hana Yori Dango, so fans of the series will probably enjoy it even more.

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Hane Keisuke

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