Japanese Pop Winter Song Rankings [2026]
We’re excited to present the latest Top 100 ranking of Japanese winter songs, all in one go, ordered by the highest number of plays!
From romantic ballads perfect for winter drives to upbeat pop songs made for the ski slopes, this list is packed with beloved winter classics.
The playlist is updated every week.
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Japanese Winter Songs Ranking [2026] (61–70)
366 daysHY64rank/position
Even if they don’t explicitly feature winter season words or scenes, there are many songs that simply feel right for winter.
HY’s “366 Days” is one such song, well-known as a tearjerker and a heartbreak anthem.
Included on their fifth album “HeartY,” released in 2008, the track has also been covered by numerous artists.
This song, which expresses feelings of sadness and heartache, might resonate even more deeply when you listen to it on a cold, freezing winter’s day.
Silent EveKarashima Midori65rank/position
A song with a delicate, beautiful melody that gently embraces a winter night.
Midori Karashima’s translucent voice carefully weaves the feelings of a woman who, while bearing the pain of heartbreak and loneliness, resolves to face forward and keep walking.
Released in November 1990, this piece resonated with many as a masterpiece that quietly stood by the hearts of women choosing calm over the glitz of the bubble era.
It has long been cherished as a Christmas standard.
A heartwarming track perfect for a winter night, to enjoy at a leisurely pace while gazing out the window.
WISHarashi66rank/position
This is a song that many people remember as the theme for the smash-hit drama Hana Yori Dango, starring Jun Matsumoto.
Released in November 2005 as Arashi’s 15th single, it sold about 178,000 copies in its first week and topped the weekly charts.
The sparkling sound that begins with the ringing of bells over the intro is filled with warmth and exhilaration that seems to blow away the winter chill.
Its catchy, approachable melody line is the epitome of a classic pop song, the kind that naturally lifts your spirits just by listening.
It’s a perfect number for winter occasions when everyone wants to get excited together, like Christmas parties or year-end gatherings.
Winter WhistleSukima Suichi67rank/position
This song vividly captures the feeling of winter.
Its melody and lyrics, which convey the warmth of a couple snuggling on a cold day, are memorable and gently embrace the listener’s heart.
Released in November 2004 as Sukima Switch’s fourth single, it was also included on the album “Kūsō Clip.” The tune’s comforting quality resonates with those in love, making it a perfect companion for long winter nights.
It’s a heartwarming winter song that gives you the courage to get through the cold season.
meringuemakaroni enpitsu68rank/position
This song by Macaroni Empitsu is a perfect fit for the illuminations that color winter streets.
It beautifully portrays the pain of heartbreak and the spark of new hope.
Fleeting emotions likened to snow and meringue are expressed in lyrics that deeply resonate—truly memorable.
Carried by a relaxed melody, vocalist Hattori’s emotive singing rings out.
Released in February 2021, the track was also selected as the theme song for the JR SKISKI campaign.
It’s a heartwarming song you’ll want to listen to on a winter night while gazing at the lights.
HappinessAI69rank/position
Because AI’s “Happiness” was used as the commercial song for a soft drink’s Christmas campaign in 2011, it tends to be thought of as a winter song.
As we approach the end of the year and look back, there were days when we could smile easily and plenty of days when we couldn’t.
But all’s well that ends well! Listening to this song, which reminds us we’re not alone, naturally fills us with warmth and brings out our smiles.
Let’s wrap up this year with a smile and carry it into the next one!
Rising SunEXILE70rank/position
Its bright, hopeful tone is perfect for the start of a new year.
Released in September 2011, this song is also known as a charity single supporting recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake.
It carries a powerful message that any hardship can be overcome, and if sung at New Year’s gatherings or reunions, it’s sure to resonate with everyone.
Also used as the theme for an NTT Communications commercial, the piece drew attention for its grand music video featuring more than 500 supporting members.
As the new year begins, why not share the feeling of facing forward with hope and courage together?