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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Roundup of Hit Winter Songs Released in the Reiwa Era (41–50)
hot milknishina
A song I’d love you to listen to on long winter nights is “Hot Milk.” It’s a track by singer-songwriter Nishina, created as the theme song for episode 1 of the drama “I Want a Love Like a Romance Drama in New York.” It portrays someone alone on a long night, thinking about an ex.
The content is quite heartrending, but Nishina’s gentle voice seems to warm the heart when you listen.
Also, I hope you’ll pay attention to the conclusion the protagonist reaches at the end of the song.
Compilation of Winter Hit Songs Released in the Reiwa Era (51–60)
Dear SantaKoresawa
It’s a single that encapsulates Koresawa’s charm—pop, yet deeply moving.
A fan favorite that had been performed only during the Christmas season since her indie days was finally released as a recorded track in November 2023.
Over a mid-tempo band sound, it conveys a heartfelt wish to Santa Claus.
The song carries a profound message that asks for the courage to value what truly matters over material desires, and although it’s a Christmas song, it encourages reflection on human relationships and personal growth.
To celebrate the release, events such as a music video premiere and a YouTube live stream were held.
With its heartwarming melody and honest emotional expression, this is a track you’ll want to listen to on a winter night spent with someone special.
A worthless nightSakiyama Soshi
A song by Soushi Sakiyama that gently accompanies people’s loneliness and sorrow as they gaze up at the winter night sky.
Released in December 2023, it features arrangements by Sasuke Haraguchi—known for the hit “Hito Mania”—which add depth to the track.
The jacket photo, with its serene artwork, is also striking.
It delicately portrays the solitude felt amid the bustle of the city and the farewells to those we’ve lost, with lyrics that truly resonate.
Sakiyama’s clear, translucent voice carries a warmth that seems to melt into the winter chill.
It’s a song that keeps you company on solitary winter nights or in moments when you remember someone dear.
daylightChilli Beans.
Formed by students of Ongakujuku Voice, Chilli Beans.
is a three-piece girl band garnering attention for a musicality that showcases a wide range of expression.
Their third digital single “daylight” lingers in the ear with its spacious, weightless melodies and ensemble.
The lyrics, which depict spending Christmas not in a glamorous place but in a quiet one, evoke a fleeting sense of youth.
With its strikingly beautiful choral work, it stands as a new standard in Christmas songs.
First Christmas feat. JUNON (BE:FIRST)Reiko
REIKO’s “First Christmas” is a song that celebrates the joy and happiness of spending your first Christmas with your partner.
Featuring BE:FIRST’s JUNON, it was released in November 2024 and has the warm, classic feel of a traditional Christmas song.
Written and composed by Shota Shimizu, its gently tender melody line is especially captivating.
The richly atmospheric Christmas sound and the relaxed vocal work are lovely, making it a soothing listen.
It’s perfect for a Christmas night spent with your loved one.
Snowin’DXTEEN
A song that fills a heart feeling the loneliness of winter’s chill with the warmth of a new encounter.
Released by DXTEEN in January 2024, this work delicately depicts the budding of new emotions against the backdrop of a beautiful, snowy winter scene.
The lyrics are striking as they explore deep themes of solitude and affection through the contrast between cold and warmth.
It achieved the group’s first No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Ranking—a remarkable feat just eight months after their debut.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to be wrapped in gentle tones that warm the heart during the cold season.
Frozen ButterflyWOLF HOWL HARMONY
A track distinguished by warm tones and melodies that melt away winter’s chill.
Delivered by WOLF HOWL HARMONY in February 2024, this song depicts the process of a frozen heart being released by love.
The lyrics are striking, using the image of a butterfly to portray suppressed emotions and dreams taking flight.
Also chosen as the theme song for the drama “A Man Who Won’t Divorce: A Betrayed Husband and His Deceitful Wife,” the piece captivates with lyrics that sing of the vanities of modern society and the struggle for self-expression, paired with a dynamic performance.
It’s a must-listen for anyone setting out on a journey of self-discovery or about to take a new step forward.