A roundup of winter hit songs released in the Reiwa era
With the start of the Reiwa era on May 1, 2019, a new chapter has begun.
Singers popular especially among younger generations have been producing hit songs, and many tracks themed around “winter” have been created.
In this article, we’ve picked out ballads and pop songs that are perfect for the cold winter season.
You’ll find songs filled with warm words for loved ones, as well as winter tunes that evoke snowy landscapes.
Be sure to check out these winter songs by artists active in the Reiwa-era Japanese music scene.
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A roundup of winter hit songs released in the Reiwa era (21–30)
My PrincessROIROM
This is a love song, the second pre-debut release from ROIROM, the duo of Hiromu Honda and Michi Hamakawa.
Set against a Christmas backdrop, the lyrics are memorable for expressing feelings toward an irreplaceable person.
Winter motifs like candlelight and snowy scenery are woven throughout, creating a romantic world.
Sonically, warm melodies blend with a stylish beat, resulting in contemporary pop that avoids leaning too sweet.
It’s a song that gently stays by your side on a winter night spent with someone special.
Winter MagicAogumo
A pop number that turns winter’s chill into an ally of love, leaving you with a sweet-and-sour feeling.
Singer-songwriter Aogumo released it in November 2025.
The endearing lyrics—about using the freezing season as an excuse to get closer to someone you like—pair perfectly with her clear, airy vocals and make your heart skip a beat.
Her previous work, “We Don’t Have a Title Yet,” drew major buzz mainly on social media, and here again her down-to-earth word choice shines.
You’ll likely be moved by the protagonist, who struggles with the frustration of not being able to express her feelings honestly, yet ultimately musters the courage to do so.
Give it a listen this winter.
Roundup of Winter Hit Songs Released in the Reiwa Era (31–40)
HanayukiAile The Shota
While grounding his music in R&B, Aile The Shota has pursued pop that anyone can hum along to.
Released in December 2025, the winter ballad “Hanayuki” serves as the concluding piece of a seasonal song series that has been delivered across spring, summer, and autumn.
Set against imagery of snow piling up on winter nights and frosty white breaths, it depicts fragile memories that seem like they might vanish at a touch, and the feelings that nevertheless remain in the heart.
The composition features contributors including UTA, known for work with BTS and Daichi Miura, resulting in a classic love ballad reminiscent of the 2000s.
Included on the album “REAL POP 2,” released in February 2026.
Winter MorningRyokushokushakai
A classic ballad that sets a heart swaying between bravado and true feelings against a winter backdrop.
This track, placed at the end of Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s 2020 album “SINGALONG,” was written by vocalist Haruko Nagaya during her university days, with moving to Tokyo in mind.
Its lyrics—where the small lies we tell to hide our loneliness intersect with the resolve to keep moving forward—are tenderly supported by delicate piano and string arrangements.
It’s a song that gently stays by the side of those who’ve started living on their own or are striving in a new environment.
A winter tune perfect for a quiet night when you want to face yourself.
streetlightBE:FIRST
A BE:FIRST track released in December 2025 that brilliantly fuses the uplifting spirit of gospel with the accessibility of pop.
Produced by Chaki Zulu with lyrics by SKY-HI, it charms by evoking both the sacred feel of worship music and the fun of a party song at the same time.
The lyrics, which spotlight the small joys found in everyday life, are also memorable.
It makes you realize that simply walking down a winter night street with someone dear is a priceless treasure in itself.
The song was selected as the tie-in for FamilyMart’s Christmas campaign commercial.
Christmas EveYuuri
When it comes to winter events, many people think of Christmas.
So I’d like to introduce a song I want you to listen to at Christmas: Christmas Eve.
This is a love ballad by singer-songwriter Yuuri, his first work themed around Christmas.
It depicts him visiting a place filled with memories of his ex on Christmas, hoping they might meet again.
The highlight is how you can feel the passage of time throughout the song and the growing sense of emptiness that comes with it.
It’s heart-wrenching.
You said the moon is beautiful.berry meet
A poppy track that captures the feeling of winter.
Released by berry meet in November 2023, it’s a love song perfect for the Christmas season.
With emotionally rich lyrics and a heartwarming melody, the song portrays the inner conflicts of someone in love and their tender affection for the other person.
Set against the beautiful winter moonlight, it depicts a desire to grow through the relationship with a lover.
Like other songs by berry meet, it features evocative, emotional storytelling.
It’s a piece that resonates deeply with listeners.
Recommended for those struggling with a precious relationship or anyone looking for a song to enjoy on a winter night.