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Lovely Christmas

[2026] A roundup of Reiwa-era Christmas songs: New classics to brighten the holy night

When it comes to Christmas songs, countless masterpieces that have gone down in J-pop history have been released over many years.

Many of them are still beloved as staples today, and I think there are plenty of younger listeners who are very familiar with Christmas songs that were released even before they were born.

In this article, we’re focusing on songs among those many classics that are likely to become the new standards for the coming era.

We’ll be introducing Christmas songs released in the Reiwa era all at once, so try finding your new favorite!

[2026] A roundup of Reiwa-era Christmas songs: New standard tracks to color the holy night (21–30)

illumination&TEAM

&TEAM ‘illumination’ Official MV
illumination&TEAM

This is a winter track by &TEAM, a global boy group, included on their album “Yukiakari,” released in December 2024.

The lyrics, which depict a wish to be with a loved one on a holy night wrapped in illuminations, reflect a more mature side that seeks to express feelings not only through words but through actions.

Its light arrangement—pop beats layered with sparkling synths and sleigh bells—beautifully captures winter scenery and the bittersweetness of youth.

Created as the winter installment of a song series themed around the four seasons, this piece is a perfect Christmas song for romantic moments with a partner or festive parties with friends.

winter again4s4ki

4s4ki – winter again (Official Lyric Video / Music Video)
winter again4s4ki

Released in December 2023, 4s4ki’s track “winter again” is her first Christmas song, but it stands apart from typical holiday tunes with a poignant portrayal of a couple in the doldrums.

The world crafted by its 80s synthwave-inspired sound and lyrics written by 4s4ki herself is sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s also a perfect song for spending Christmas night alone—one that will undoubtedly stay close to your heart.

[2026] A roundup of Reiwa-era Christmas songs: New classics to color the holy night (31–40)

#MerryChristmasnaniwa danshi

Naniwa Danshi – #MerryChristmas [Official Music Video] YouTube ver.
#MerryChristmasnaniwa danshi

Naniwa Danshi is a seven-member idol group that captivates fans with their cute looks and refreshing vocals.

Their song “#MerryChristmas,” included as a coupling track on their 3rd single “Happy Surprise,” was selected as the CM song for the Lawson Christmas Campaign.

The lyrics, infused with contemporary phrases and linked to the festive atmosphere of Christmas, make you look forward to the arrival of winter.

With its pop ensemble coloring this once-a-year event, it’s a Reiwa-born Christmas song.

I promiseKing&Prince

King & Prince「I promise」MV -Dance ver.- YouTube Edit
I promiseKing&Prince

Overflowing with the princely charm of King & Prince, this song will make you forget the winter cold.

Featuring sweet yet bittersweet lyrics and a catchy melody that color the Christmas season, it’s a ballad dedicated to everyone in love.

Released in December 2020, it was also used as Seven-Eleven’s Christmas commercial song.

Selling 567,000 copies in its first week, it topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Perfect for a quiet, long winter night, it might be the ideal BGM for those special moments spent with someone important.

WINTER WITHOUT YOUXG

XG – WINTER WITHOUT YOU (Official Music Video)
WINTER WITHOUT YOUXG

Despite all members being Japanese, XG continues to pursue global activities armed with outstanding singing and rapping skills.

This track, a new winter staple, features soothingly resonant harmonies and conveys the loneliness of spending Christmas away from someone dear.

Released in December 2023, it’s marked by the soft timbre of an electric piano and distinctive vocal effects.

While the city is wrapped in a festive Christmas mood, the lyrics express the solitude of being alone and the longing to reunite with a loved one.

It’s the perfect song for those separated from their partner or anyone who wants to immerse themselves in feelings for someone special.

Happy ChristmasONE LOVE ONE HEART

ONE LOVE ONE HEART 『Happy Christmas』Special Movie -BOYS ver.-
Happy ChristmasONE LOVE ONE HEART

When the Christmas season arrives, the whole city is wrapped in a festive atmosphere, isn’t it? A perfect song for this special time is the Christmas track by ONE LOVE ONE HEART.

With its warm melody and love-filled lyrics, it paints scenes of precious moments spent with loved ones and the cozy feeling of Christmas in the snow.

The song is included on their second album, “Love It, Our Utterly Chaotic Days,” set for release on January 17, 2024, and it’s a pop tune with a Christmas theme.

Filled with the essence of winter and a heartwarming vibe, it’s an ideal track for the holiday season.

How about listening to it with your partner or family and enjoying a joyful Christmas time together?

A worthless nightSakiyama Soshi

Soushi Sakiyama / A Worthless Night [Official Music Video]
A worthless nightSakiyama Soshi

With lyrics that deeply explore themes of loneliness and sorrow—distinct from the usual cheerful, happy Christmas—the song leaves a strong impression.

Its quiet, melancholic melody and Soshi Sakiyama’s characteristically delicate guitar playing resonate deeply.

Released in December 2023, the track was produced, written, and composed by Sakiyama himself, with arranger and track maker Sasuke Haraguchi participating in the arrangement.

The cover art, featuring a serene design that contrasts with traditional Christmas colors, is also striking.

This is a recommended song for those who want to experience an introspective world or spend Christmas quietly.