JR’s CM song roundup, including SKISKI and more
When it comes to JR commercials, there are all kinds: ones that showcase beautiful footage of tourist spots around Japan, ones that capture trains in motion, and of course the classic “JR SKISKI” series that appears every winter!
These commercials use music that perfectly matches their imagery—gentle tracks that highlight the beauty of the visuals, or upbeat tunes that convey the exhilarating speed of a train.
Many of the songs featured in the “JR SKISKI” series go on to become beloved winter staples, so there are quite a few standout CM tracks.
In this article, we’ll introduce all the songs that have been used in JR commercials so far.
You’re sure to find those buzzworthy tracks or the ones you heard in a CM and couldn’t get out of your head.
- [From timeless classics to the latest hits] A roundup of catchy commercial songs
- JR East commercial. A compilation of commercials showcasing beautiful scenery.
- A roundup of JR Central commercials. The direction that conveys the allure of travel is captivating, and the music is also a highlight!
- JR commercial roundup. A comprehensive look at commercials where you can see the trains!
- A must-see for people in their 30s and 40s! A roundup of nostalgic 1990s commercial jingles
- Whose Song Is It? ANA’s Popular Commercial Track. A History of CM Songs [2026]
- Whose Song Is It? Popular JRA Commercial Track: Historic Horse Racing CM Songs [2026]
- 80s commercial songs. A roundup of Japanese songs from the 80s that have been used in commercials.
- Tatsuro Yamashita CM Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]
- A commercial song with memorable dancing. A commercial that makes you want to start dancing.
- JTB commercial. A collection of commercials that make you want to go on a trip.
- [February 2026] Summary of Trending Latest Commercial Songs
- Nostalgic commercials from the 2000s: revisiting ads that left a lasting impression
[Including SKISKI] Compilation of JR Commercial Songs (71–80)
Tears aren’t just for show.
This is a promotional commercial for JQ CARD, a credit card offered by the JR Kyushu Group.
In the commercial, the appeal of JQ CARD is showcased to a parody of Akina Nakamori’s signature song “Kazari Janai no yo Namida wa.” It features Aoi Yamada—who is also active as a dancer and model—delivering a striking dance performance in sync with the music.
Original songMIO
The commercial featuring Riko Fukumoto, titled “START! New Commuting Style: Takeoff,” uses an original song composed specifically for the ad.
The clear, transparent vocals are performed by mio, who works both as a singer and a vocal coach.
The melody, which evokes a fresh morning breeze, perfectly suits the commuting theme of the commercial.
Even the slightly gloomy feeling of heading to work or school might be brightened by this pop tune, leaving you refreshed!
Cheerful Ranch (Old McDonald’s Farm) (Parody Song)Nakajō Ayami
In this commercial, in which Ayami Nakajo showcases her light, lively singing voice, a well-known American nursery rhyme is rearranged with new lyrics.
Dressed in a cowgirl outfit, Nakajo sings about the appeal of JR’s value-packed services—a strikingly fresh concept.
First aired in March 2017, the spot caught the attention of many viewers.
The rhythmic melody combined with Nakajo’s charming vocals makes it a fun tune that you can’t help but hum along to.
It’s the kind of catchy song that pops into your head when planning a trip and makes you want to use JR’s services.
[Including SKISKI] JR Commercial Songs Compilation (81–90)
Piano Concerto No. 1, First MovementPyōtoru Chaikofusukī
Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No.
1 was his first piano concerto, inspired by his friend, the pianist Nikolai Rubinstein, for whom he intended it to be performed.
Interestingly, the piece has the backstory of being harshly criticized by Rubinstein.
The dynamic interplay between piano and orchestra has made it one of the most familiar works in classical music.
A commercial set to this grand, expansive piece—paired with majestic natural landscapes—leaves a particularly strong impression.
The Tale of Three CapitalsTanimura Shinji
Released as a single in 1992, it was chosen as the image song for JR West’s “Santo Monogatari” campaign.
The song was also used for onboard announcements on the Twilight Express, and it’s said that thanks to this track, more people decided to travel.
Original songishii yuuko
A commercial jingle by Yuko Ishii.
Born in 1975, she graduated from the Composition Department of Tokyo College of Music.
She studied under Shigeaki Saegusa, learning orchestration and big band arranging, then changed jobs to a TV sound effects company and a commercial music production company.
She became independent at 26 and continues to compose a wide range of music, mainly for commercials.
OriginalNao
Since the fundamental goal of a commercial jingle is to leave a strong impact in about 15 to 30 seconds, in that sense the JR Kyushu “JR Kyupo” CM song, which began airing in March 2020, seems spot-on as a CM song, with a phrase that sticks in your head after just one listen.
“JR Kyupo” is a points program that accumulates through using JR Kyushu’s internet train reservation service, credit cards, IC cards, and more.
Actress Nao, who is from Fukuoka City in Fukuoka Prefecture, appears in the commercial and also does the singing, and there’s something heartwarming about someone from Kyushu appearing in a JR Kyushu commercial.
Incidentally, Nao moved to Tokyo when she began her full-fledged acting career, so in a sense this commercial may be her triumphant return to her hometown.
