Released in 1974 as a song by the folk group Kaguyahime, “Nagori Yuki” remains one of those timeless classics that’s still being sung today.
Folk singer Iruka covered the song in 1975, which propelled “Nagori Yuki” to even greater popularity.
Since then, this masterpiece has been loved and continually covered by many artists! In this article, we’ll introduce some of those versions.
The song has been covered across genres—enka, rock, and pop—so be sure to compare them and find which artist’s cover you like best!
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Nagori Yuki: Popular Cover Songs (1–10)
Lingering SnowHata Motohiro
Taiji Hiroshi’s rendition of “Nagori Yuki.” It’s arranged for just guitar and vocals.
This one really draws you in—his singing is outstanding.
With his charming husky voice, Taiji Hiroshi is a perfect fit for “Nagori Yuki,” making it a wonderful number.
Definitely give it a listen—it’s soothing.
It’s such a superb finish you wouldn’t think it’s a cover.
Lingering Snowiruka
When you hear “Nagori Yuki,” many people probably think of Iruka, right? In fact, this is a cover as well.
The original was by the folk group Kaguya-hime, active in the 1970s.
It’s said Iruka was initially hesitant to cover a song by Kaguya-hime—who broke up at the height of their popularity—since they were from the same generation.
Iruka is the one who began stretching out the final line of the chorus, “kirei ni natta.”
Lingering SnowNakamori Akina
This song, which is also included on her own cover album, surprises you right from the start: a beat-driven “Nagori Yuki.” Isn’t this, in the truest sense, what a cover song should be? The faint voice that seems as if it might fade away at any moment might seem mismatched with the wistful yet rhythmic arrangement of “Nagori Yuki,” but it fits perfectly, becoming a version that only Akina Nakamori could sing.
Highly recommended.
Lingering SnowToshi
This is “Nagori Yuki” covered by X JAPAN’s vocalist Toshi.
His crystal-clear voice and beautifully resonant high notes make for a wonderful rendition.
Toshi’s vocal ability is outstanding.
I recommend this arrangement of “Nagori Yuki” across generations.
I hope it brings you comfort.
Lingering SnowSakamoto Fuyumi
Nagori Yuki is strongly associated with the image of guitar-and-vocal performances.
The version sung by Fuyumi Sakamoto is arranged for piano and orchestra.
With the effective use of violins, it becomes a brilliant, vibrant rendition.
A slightly enka-flavored Nagori Yuki is nice, too.
It’s a recommended number for older listeners.
Lingering SnowFukuyama Masaharu
This was performed in the “Soul Requests” segment of Masaharu Fukuyama’s radio show, where he sings in response to listeners’ requests.
I was impressed by how, with Fukuyama’s slightly distinctive guitar lines and different vocal phrasing, it sounded like an entirely different song—so very Fukuyama.
It’s a must-listen recommendation.
Lingering Snowkurisu haato
Chris Hart has covered Iruka’s smash hit “Nagori Yuki.” His voice is wonderfully clear and transparent—truly outstanding vocals.
The backing performance is gentle and subdued, a pleasure to listen to.
The orchestral version, different from a simple solo accompaniment, is lovely as well.
Chris Hart’s vocals paired with the orchestra—this is a highly recommended track that will wrap you in warmth.