Noriyuki Makihara’s Christmas Songs and Popular Hits Ranking [2026]

chicken riceHamada Masatoshi / Makihara Noriyuki1rank/position

chicken rice

A heartwarming collaborative song by Masatoshi Hamada and Noriyuki Makihara.

Released in November 2004, this work was born from a chance exchange on HEY! HEY! HEY! MUSIC CHAMP.

The lyrics penned by Hitoshi Matsumoto convey the idea that happiness isn’t found in material wealth alone.

It’s perfect not only as background music for the Christmas season, but also when you want to look back on memories with your family and loved ones.

Wish Upon the SnowMakihara Noriyuki2rank/position

Yukini Negaiwo

A perfect piece for winter that gently sings of “the warmth of loved ones.” It’s the 10th single released by singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara in November 1993, a single cut from the album SELF PORTRAIT, and it was used as TBS’s winter campaign song.

The charm of this work lies in its tender lyrics, which view Christmas as a day to feel connected to others.

The emotionally rich arrangement—piano and strings woven over a medium-tempo melody—feels wonderfully comforting.

Sing it at karaoke, and the memories of Christmas from those days will quietly come back to life.

Winter Is Starting (2012 Remaster)Makihara Noriyuki3rank/position

Fuyu Ga Hajimaru Yo (2012 Remaster)

The fourth single released by Noriyuki Makihara in November 1991 is a winter classic etched in many people’s hearts as the theme song for Sapporo Beer’s “Fuyu Monogatari” commercial.

Its buoyant shuffle beat and the chorus’s striking leaping melody stick in your ears, making it a song that lets you welcome the arrival of winter with excitement.

The lyrics carefully depict the warm, everyday life of a couple in love.

In 2012, a 24-bit digital remaster was included on the album “Aki Uta, Fuyu Uta.

~ Mou Koi Nante Shinai,” and the song was once again used in a commercial.

As the cold season sets in, it’s guaranteed to boost the mood when played at year-end parties or other drinking gatherings.

With its gentle, bright vocals that make you forget the winter chill, it stands as a quintessential winter song.

Winter is starting.Makihara Noriyuki4rank/position

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “Winter Begins” (Music Video) [4th Single] (1991) / Fuyu ga Hajimaru yo

A warm, winter-tinged song that portrays happy moments with a lover.

Released in November 1991 as Noriyuki Makihara’s fourth single, it was also used in a Sapporo Beer “Fuyu Monogatari” commercial.

The lyrics recount memories of past Christmases and preparations to spend the coming winter together.

They depict lovers gazing at the starry sky and the care they feel for each other, creating a message that resonates deeply with listeners.

Celebrate the beginning of winter—and consider using it for your Instagram Stories as well.

Tearful ChristmasMakihara Noriyuki5rank/position

namidano Christmas

This is a classic by Noriyuki Makihara that carries warmth within its melancholy.

The lyrics, which portray the pain of a broken heart on Christmas night, resonate with many people.

Included on the album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” released in June 1992, the song is marked by gentle piano tones and Makihara’s delicate vocals.

With a characteristically modest vocal range typical of Makihara, it’s easy to sing at karaoke.

It’s the perfect mature Christmas song that offers comfort to those who’ve experienced a breakup or are spending Christmas alone.