[Winter Songs] The Best Classic and Popular Winter Tunes to Listen to in Winter
As winter approaches, we start hearing winter songs in all kinds of settings more and more often! From timeless classics we hear every year to newer winter songs that have taken root in recent years.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of Japan’s beloved winter tracks all at once, starting with popular hits and spanning many iconic songs of the season! We’ve picked out everything from songs that paint wintry landscapes to bittersweet love songs and winter tracks by buzzworthy bands, so you’re sure to find something that fits your listening situation perfectly! Be sure to listen to your favorites and feel the season of winter.
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[Winter Songs] Masterpieces to Enjoy in Winter & Best Popular Winter Songs (91–100)
Forever feat. HAN-KUN & TEESPICY CHOCOLATE

Many people probably know it since it was also used in a mobile carrier’s commercial song.
Set in winter, it expresses a straightforward feeling: despite some anxiety, the feelings never change.
Even when we’re apart, it’s warm because you’re there—that kind of sentiment warms the heart in the cold winter, doesn’t it?
EverythingMISIA

In the middle of a quiet, snow-covered town, MISIA delivers a tender winter ballad.
It sings of a woman’s aching love, yearning for only you.
MISIA’s powerful vocals carry a sense of poignancy as well, so be sure to listen while watching the music video.
SnowdomeKimura Kaera

When it comes to winter songs that overflow with feelings for a cherished person you can no longer meet, Snowdome comes to mind.
Released in 2007 by Kaela Kimura, who is active as a model and singer, the song was composed by the rock band BEAT CRUSADERS.
Her supple vocals resonate over an energetic band performance.
The warm melody line, which seems to envelop a story of a lonely winter farewell, leaves a strong impression.
It’s a winter song whose clear, heartfelt love for someone dear strikes straight at the heart.
Snow, fall.Gam

This song, which opens Gam’s December 1981 album Kazabana, by the lyrical folk duo renowned in the 1980s, is a winter ballad that echoes with bittersweet feelings entrusted to gently falling snow.
Carried by soft guitar tones, it delicately portrays the tremor of a heart thinking of someone amid a scene of swirling snow.
The transparent harmonies and introspective lyrics weave a world imbued with Gam’s signature lyricism, offering a warmth that seems to nestle into winter’s stillness.
It’s a track that seeps into the heart when, alone in the cold season, you find yourself recalling days gone by or someone dear.
History MakerDEAN FUJIOKA

This is the opening theme of the anime “Yuri!!! on ICE,” which centers on figure skating.
It’s a grand piece sung in English, featuring a distinctive fusion of waltz rhythms, orchestral elements, and EDM beats.
Its lyrics offer encouragement to those who continue to chase their dreams, making it perfect for winter as we renew our resolve for the new year.
It’s a track I’d recommend to anyone who wants to reflect on their past and take a step into the future.
Together…MAX

MAX, the dance-vocal group that celebrated their 25th anniversary in 2020, has released a newly recorded, rearranged version of their classic 1999 track “Issho ni…”.
It’s a highly popular medium-tempo ballad—unusual for MAX, who are best known for dance-focused songs—singing about feelings of love that grow stronger in the cold month of December.
The new version’s music video also features Asahi Nao, who is from the same agency as MAX, so be sure to check it out!
MemoriesMAN WITH A MISSION

This song by MAN WITH A MISSION features a grand, beautiful intro that seems to capture the crisp winter air.
While reflecting on memories of days gone by, the lyrics sing of hope for the future, resonating deeply in the heart.
The band’s signature heavy rock sound intertwines exquisitely with shimmering synthesizers, creating a bittersweet yet exhilarating uplift.
Released as a single in January 2016 and used as the theme for JR East’s “JR SKISKI” campaign, its pleasant sense of speed makes it a perfect soundtrack for winter drives and winter sports.


