[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!
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[2026] A roundup of Reiwa-era Christmas songs: New classics to color the holy night (31–40)
#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.
PresentAwich
The hip-hop artist Awich from Okinawa released a song in December 2020 that was created as an insert track for the film “Silent Tokyo.” The title carries a double meaning—“gift” and “the present”—and, in her own words, conveys the message that “each of our existences is the greatest present.” It’s an R&B-infused number built on gentle piano and a subdued beat, with lyrics interweaving English and Japanese that are sure to resonate.
Centered on appreciating a loved one’s very existence, it’s a warm track perfect for those spending Christmas with someone special.
On Christmas nightYUTORI-SEDAI
This release by YUTORI-SEDAI, a three-piece band from West Tokyo, dropped digitally in November 2021 and is a ballad that straightforwardly captures the feeling of wanting to see someone special on Christmas night.
While the narrator blames their trembling legs on the cold, in truth they’re wrapped in the nervous tension of love—a delicate inner state expressed with great care.
Ryouki Kanehara’s tender, heartrending vocals resonate over the band’s unhurried performance, taking nearly six minutes to carefully convey the nuances of emotion.
It’s a winter night love song that expands on YUTORI-SEDAI’s signature world—lyrics about love that invite empathy.
A perfect track for anyone spending that moment when you wish to confess your feelings to someone you like.
wishasmi
Singer-songwriter asmi from Osaka.
Released digitally in November 2022, this work is her first Christmas song under her solo name.
The lyrics, which sing about the warm feelings you get in a winter city, evoke the anticipation of spending special time with someone.
With its relaxed, lyrical sound and asmi’s charming vocals, it’s sure to color the holy night.
A pop ballad born in the Reiwa era, perfect for a quietly spent Christmas Eve with someone special.
Gaming Party Xmaszettakun
This is the second major digital single, released in November 2020.
Built around a sample of a classic Christmas song, it portrays the emotional stirrings of a protagonist who usually spends their time immersed in games, as they consider heading out to a party to see someone they’re interested in.
Their struggle between the loneliness of not fitting in at large gatherings and the desire to connect socially is something many today can relate to.
The sound is striking, rooted in hip-hop while incorporating pop and electronic elements.
A remix version was released in 2021 and was also included on the album “Bed in Wonderland.” It’s a Christmas song that shines with Zetttakun’s characteristically mild perspective, suggesting that spending Christmas gaming isn’t so bad after all.
[2026] A Roundup of Reiwa-Era Christmas Songs: New Classics to Brighten the Holy Night (41–50)
Mont BlancIkuta Erika
Since graduating from Nogizaka46, Erika Ikuta has been forging her path as a solo artist.
Released in November 2024, this track is her first song themed around winter.
On a Christmas night when lovers gather, it delicately portrays the feelings of a protagonist spending the evening alone, layering the sweetness of a cake they ordered with the aching sadness of an unattainable love.
The lyrics, where the dream of a pure love like a white shortcake intersects with the bittersweetness of reality, will resonate in the stillness of a winter night.
A gentle arrangement anchored by piano highlights her clear, translucent voice, evoking a nostalgic mood.
It’s a Reiwa-era Christmas ballad that quietly stays by your side on a holy night spent alone.
Focus Holiday RemixAratani Shota
Shota Araya, formerly the vocalist of the band yonawo, launched his full-fledged solo career in 2024.
This track, included on the EP “Focus EP,” is a remix by beatmaker TOSHIKI HAYASHI (%C), a prominent figure in Japan’s hip-hop scene, and was released digitally on December 18, 2024.
Preserving the dreamy, floating feel of the original, it adds a beat that evokes the excitement of the Christmas season, resulting in a sound that blends warmth with festivity.
Paired with a music video that looks back on his journey since going solo, it feels like a gift to his fans.
A Christmas song born in the Reiwa era, it quietly colors the holy night.