Winter songs you'll want to listen to in the cold season! Recommended for the yutori generation

chicken riceHamada Masatoshi / Makihara Noriyuki

chicken rice

A collaboration between Noriyuki Makihara, a singer-songwriter who has been a leading figure in Japan, and Masatoshi Hamada of Downtown, this track was released in November 2004.

The lyrics, which question the essence of happiness and convey compassion for family, are based on episodes from Hitoshi Matsumoto’s childhood.

Its heartwarming words and pop melody feel like they could blow away the chill of winter.

It’s a recommended song that can prompt even the yutori generation to reflect on memories with their families.

Lost SheepChatto Monchī

Lost Sheep

Using Christmas-like motifs, it portrays a relationship in a deep freeze, stuck in a period of ennui.

Even though reason says “I’m done,” a single email that just says “thank you” brings you to tears—this contradictory feeling is captured with raw honesty in lyrics by Akiko Fukuoka.

The song was included as the B-side to the 2006 single “Shangri-La,” and can also be heard on the 2010 compilation Hyōjō .

Try listening to it alone on a cold night when your feelings for someone are wavering.

In that moment when you sway between bravado and your true feelings, it will surely stay by your side.

Just… I want to see youEXILE

Just... I want to see you.

When it comes to heart-stirring, poignant ballads that resonate in the crisp winter air, this work stands out.

It’s the 19th single released by EXILE, one of Japan’s leading dance and vocal groups, in December 2005.

Chosen as the campaign song for KDDI/Okinawa Cellular’s “au × EXILE,” it drew major attention, topping the Oricon weekly chart.

The lyrics pour out overflowing emotions for a beloved person who can no longer be met, along with deep, wrenching regret.

It’s an iconic early EXILE masterpiece, and the vocalist’s richly expressive voice is enough to bring tears to your eyes.

A sentimental winter song that makes you want to listen closely on a quiet winter night spent alone, as you recall days that will never return.

My feelingsWaT

WaT – My Feelings

WaT steadily grew their fanbase through street performances and made a striking major debut in 2005.

This song, their first major-label single, is a classic winter tune that portrays a straightforward love for someone dear.

It was also used as the GyaO “WaT Edition” commercial song, debuted at No.

2 on the Oricon chart, and became a major hit that even led to their rapid appearance at the 56th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen later that year.

The refreshing sound and the strings vividly paint the scenery of the glittering white season.

Also included on the album “Sotsugyo TIME ~Bokura no Hajimari~,” this is a track that will warm your heart even more when you listen to it under a freezing winter sky, thinking of someone special.

SnowdomeKimura Kaera

Kaela Kimura “Snowdome” (Official Music Video)

A pop tune that conjures a sparkling snowy scene, as if trapped inside a snow globe.

It’s one of singer Kaela Kimura’s signature songs—she’s also celebrated as a fashion icon—and it was released in January 2007 as her 8th single.

Many will remember it from JR East’s “JR SKISKI” TV commercials, in which she herself appeared, where it aired frequently.

The composition was handled by the rock band BEAT CRUSADERS, and the fusion of band-driven speed with a bittersweet, catchy melody feels so satisfying.

It’s also included on the album “Scratch,” and its charm remains undimmed to this day.

Perfect for winter drives or karaoke.

Take in the seasonal atmosphere and give it another listen.

A Lump of LoveKinKi Kids

A Lump of Love

This song was included as the B-side to the 13th single “Hey! Minna Genki Kai?”, released in November 2001.

It’s also known for being used in a Morinaga “DARS” commercial.

With lyrics by Tsuyoshi Domoto and music by Koichi Domoto, it’s a well-known collaboration between the two, and despite being a B-side, it became one of the group’s signature hits, even taking first place in fan voting.

The lyrics, written from a woman’s perspective, portray the joy of sharing time with a lover and the bittersweetness that comes with it, resonating deeply.

As the cold deepens and we long for warmth, why not listen to it while thinking of someone special? It’s a heartwarming winter ballad, a true gem that has long been beloved in karaoke.

Winter SongKiroro

Kiroro "Winter Song" Official Music Video

A winter ballad by a music duo from Okinawa that portrays pure, heartfelt emotions.

The lyrics penned by Chiharu Tamashiro contrast the freezing chill of winter with the warmth deep within the heart, gently accompanying the listener’s feelings.

The delicate tones of the piano and the clear, transparent vocals intertwine, making this a timeless classic beloved as a winter staple.

Released in November 1998 as their third single, it became widely known through Meiji Seika’s TV commercials for Meltykiss and Porte.

It was later included on the album “Sukina Hito — Kiroro no Sora.” This is a song you’ll want to listen to on a cold night as you think of someone dear.

When you wish to feel a sure warmth amid the ache of longing, sit in a quiet room and listen closely.