Japanese Pop Winter Song Rankings [2026]

MemoriesMAN WITH A MISSION36rank/position

MAN WITH A MISSION 『Memories』

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.

Snow WhiteMarushii37rank/position

Marsi – Shirayuki (Official Music Video)

A three-piece rock band from Fukuoka, marsci released this winter love ballad in December 2020.

It portrays the aching feelings toward a lover with whom one parted on a snowy night, resonating with many and even reaching No.

1 on lyric site popularity rankings.

From the intro, where sleigh bells ring with a magical shimmer, to the airy, floating vocals that seep into the heart, it’s a track that stands out, complemented by Rui Momota’s warm and masterful arrangement and production.

Also included on the album “Memory,” this song will comfort those who carry unforgettable feelings after a breakup.

It’s a winter piece that revives days gone by, like snow piling up softly.

PrologueUru38rank/position

[Official] Uru “Prologue” YouTube ver. — Theme song for the TBS Tuesday drama “Chugakusei Nikki (Junior High School Diary)”

Uru’s “Prologue,” which also became a hit as the theme song for the drama “Chuugaku Seinikki” that drew attention with Kasumi Arimura in the lead role.

It’s a love song with an especially memorable chorus that makes your chest tighten.

It’s the kind of song that makes you want to listen quietly on a cold night when you can feel the chill in the air, and Uru’s clear voice suits the crisp midwinter atmosphere perfectly.

It’s a love song that will make you think not only of the person you love now, but also suddenly recall someone you once loved very much.

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Christmas EveYamashita Tatsuro39rank/position

Nana Eikura stars in Tatsuro Yamashita’s “Christmas Eve” special movie-version PV

A beloved classic Christmas song and one of Tatsuro Yamashita’s signature works.

Its sentimental lyrics about heartbreak and its beautiful melody truly resonate.

Released in 1983, the song became a massive hit after being featured in a JR Tokai commercial.

Since then, it has become one of Japan’s quintessential winter songs, heard throughout towns every Christmas season.

For those in their 50s, it’s likely a timeless piece that brings back memories of their youth.

It’s a perfect song to listen to while spending Christmas with someone special or quietly reflecting on the past year.

snow dropL’Arc〜en〜Ciel40rank/position

L’Arc～en～Ciel「snow drop」-Music Clip-

When it comes to exhilarating rock numbers that slice through the crisp winter air, many people probably think of this song.

The driving melody crafted by tetsuya and hyde’s soaring vocals blend beautifully, lifting the listener’s spirits.

Released as a single in October 1998, it also became widely known as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Run, Civil Servant! POLICE WOMAN.” It topped the Oricon Weekly Chart, making it a track that epitomizes L’Arc~en~Ciel’s momentum at the time.

Another version is included on the classic album “ray.” Whether you’re looking to boost your mood on a winter drive or fire up a karaoke session with friends from back in the day, singing it is sure to spark a flurry of nostalgic memories.

Sorrow like snowHamada Shogo41rank/position

Sadness Like Snow (ON THE ROAD 2011 “The Last Weekend”)

This is the 14th single by the solitary singer-songwriter Shogo Hamada, who continues to assert his unique worldview and presence through protest-tinged messages and rock sounds rooted in the Japanese language.

Chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Ai to Iu Na no Moto ni” (In the Name of Love), it was also released as his 23rd single.

With his gravelly vocals and rich choral arrangements, it’s an irresistibly catchy number.

The lyrics liken sorrow to snow, expressing the complexities of life and resonating deeply with listeners.

Although originally released in 1981, it remains timeless—an enduring classic in J-pop.

somedayyuzu42rank/position

Itsuka

When the weather turns chilly, there’s a heartwarming winter ballad I can’t help but crave.

The sound of the acoustic guitar intertwines with beautiful strings, evoking a quiet warmth like gently falling snow.

The lyrics, which honor the preciousness of simply having someone you love by your side and convey a strong resolve to protect them no matter what, resonate deeply with listeners.

Released as a single in January 1999 and also included on the classic album YUZIEN, this piece was lovingly nurtured since their street-performing days and was also Yuzu’s first release in the maxi-single format.

It’s perfect for quietly immersing yourself on a long winter’s night, or for pouring your heart into it at karaoke!