[2026] Masterpieces to Enjoy on a Snowy Day: J‑Pop Snow Songs and Winter Tunes

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

There are countless songs about winter, but when it comes to songs themed around snow, which ones come to mind?

I’m sure you can think of a few—songs that capture the thrill of winter’s arrival, or pieces that overlay falling snow with feelings of love.

There are so many different kinds.

In this article, we’ll introduce a range of tracks you’ll want to listen to when it starts to snow.

Each song carries its own feelings and messages, so try finding the one that perfectly matches your mood.

[2026] Masterpieces to Listen to on a Snowy Day: J-POP Snow Songs and Winter Songs (71–80)

Snow in Love, Sky I AdoreCHEMISTRY

CHEMISTRY “Koisuru Yuki Aisuru Sora” Official Video

Snow in Love, Sky I AdoreCHEMISTRY

Included on the 2008 album “Winter of Love.” A two-person music unit that debuted in 2001.

This number portrays someone who, despite being in a relationship, is suddenly stirred by memories of a past love, only to ultimately recognize the importance and warmth of the person they’re with now and return their heart to that person’s great love.

I think it’s a characteristically melodic track for them.

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A town where it snowsFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS "A Town Where Snow Falls"

A town where it snowsFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS have many songs that give everyone a boost.

This is a slightly bittersweet love song from Fanmon that paints a picture of winter memories.

It has an upbeat, fun vibe, yet it’s a track that can make you a little sentimental as you look back on a love that has ended.

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Native DancerSakanakushon

Sakanaction / Native Dancer

Native DancerSakanakushon

A classic early SAKANACTION masterpiece and fan favorite.

It was included on their third album, Shinshiro, released in 2009.

The staccato rhythms depicting silence and the gentle verse suddenly shift into motion after the first chorus, moving the heart.

The lyrics, which liken memories to winter flowers, are ephemeral yet beautiful, showcasing SAKANACTION’s characteristic subtlety.

Don’t miss frontman Ichiro Yamaguchi’s footwork in the music video, either! It’s a track you’ll want to listen to while walking on a snowy day.

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[2026] Masterpieces to Listen to on a Snowy Day: J-pop Snow Songs and Winter Songs (81–90)

Winter BeatBikkeburanka

Vicke Blanka – Winter Beat

Winter BeatBikkeburanka

It’s a wonderful winter classic that passionately sings of a love so straightforward it’s almost overwhelming.

It’s a song by Vickeblanka, a singer-songwriter from Aichi Prefecture, included on his second album “wizard,” released in 2019.

The bouncing rhythm pairs perfectly with Vickeblanka’s bright, clear vocals.

It feels great to listen to.

On a cold winter’s day, when you want to feel warmth all the way to the depths of your heart with your lover, please give it a listen.

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For whom does the snow fall?Sakiya Kenjirō

Kenjirō Sakiya – For Whom Does the Snow Fall MV

For whom does the snow fall?Sakiya Kenjirō

The B-side track to the single “I Don’t Think It’s Too Late,” released in 1994.

Born in 1962.

A singer-songwriter from Hiroshima Prefecture.

This is his first Christmas song.

Carried by a mid-tempo rhythm and a melodious, pop-tinged arrangement, his emotionally rich vocals resonate deep in the heart.

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Winter IllusionAcid Black Cherry

Acid Black Cherry “Fuyu no Maboroshi” MV

Winter IllusionAcid Black Cherry

As expected of Acid Black Cherry, this is an incredibly cool track with a flavor only they can pull off.

Even winter’s chill and melancholy turn sexy in Acid Black Cherry’s hands, and a whole story unfolds.

The music video is compelling too—it’s a winter rock tune worth watching.

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Murakami Shinpei

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HELLOSCANDAL

SCANDAL – Hello

HELLOSCANDAL

SCANDAL is a four-piece rock band that has led the post-2000s girls’ band scene in J-POP, performing live overseas since their indie days.

The new song HELLO, included on their third best-of album SCANDAL, features an arrangement that begins with a striking guitar arpeggio, giving it a lyrical feel.

Its message—that we can become stronger because of the presence of someone important—paired with imagery that evokes snowy landscapes, is sure to move listeners.

With a translucent, lingering chorus melody, it’s a rock tune that conjures the feeling of winter.

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Hoshino Takashi

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