[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 (121–130)

Snow Falling on the SeaKobukuro

Umi Ni Furu Yuki

Snow Falling on the SeaKobukuro

A coupling track from the 2001 single “YOU/miss you.” A music duo from Osaka Prefecture formed in 1998.

The quietly played acoustic guitar tones slip gently into your ears.

With its slow, ballad-like melody line, this is a song that truly embodies Kobukuro’s signature style.

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Winter TaleSandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE / Winter Story

Winter TaleSandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

It’s a pure love song that sings, “No matter how cold winter gets or how chilled your heart feels, I’ll stay by your side and keep you warm.” It’s a track by the popular dance-vocal group Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE, released in 2013 as their 10th single.

With its sparkling sound, this beautiful medium-tempo number makes you feel as if you’re standing in a serene, quiet space while listening.

And of course, the lyrics are the real charm.

There must be people who can’t help but relate, thinking, “I want someone I love to feel this way about me!”

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It snows.Ozaki Kiyohiko

Snow Is Falling Kiyohiko Ozaki (composed by Adamo) Tombe la neige (Salvatore Adamo)

It snows.Ozaki Kiyohiko

A single released in 1971.

The singer was born in 1954 and is from Tokyo.

The song was originally a number released by Salvador Adamo, an Italian-born Belgian singer, and there’s even a version where Adamo himself sings in Japanese.

The lyrics of this song differ slightly from Adamo’s Japanese version.

His voice fits it perfectly—it’s absolutely enchanting to listen to.

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Spring SnowTokunaga Hideaki

HIDEAKI TOKUNAGA – Spring Snow

Spring SnowTokunaga Hideaki

A single released in 2011.

Theme song for the drama “Sakura Kokoro.” Born in 1961.

A singer-songwriter from Fukuoka Prefecture.

Released as the first single of his 25th anniversary year.

With its slow-tempo rhythm and moody, lyrical melody line, his distinctive vocals make this a track that truly resonates with the heart.

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[2026] Masterpieces to listen to on snowy days. J-POP snow songs and winter songs (131–140)

SnowdomeKimura Kaera

Kaela Kimura “Snowdome” [short ver.]

SnowdomeKimura Kaera

“Snowdome,” Kaela Kimura’s 8th single, released in 2007.

The lyrics are by Kaela Kimura, and the music is by BEAT CRUSADERS.

It’s a track that really captures the band’s pop and emotional vibe.

It conveys the chill of winter and a subtle, indescribable tinge of melancholy.

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SNOW SMILEShimizu Shota

Shota Shimizu “SNOW SMILE short ver.”

SNOW SMILEShimizu Shota

Even the melancholy of winter becomes instantly dramatic when sung by Shota Shimizu.

It’s a song that elevates the winter atmosphere with a beautiful voice Japan can be proud of.

There’s a warmth that makes you want to listen to it every time winter comes around, and it’s a number you’ll want to enjoy not only for the vocals but also for the lyrics.

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Murakami Shinpei

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SweetieME:I

ME:I (Mei) ⊹ “Sweetie” Track Video

SweetieME:I

A winter song that portrays the warm, sweet moments of a couple spending their first winter together.

Released as a digital single on December 2, 2024, the track features a sparkling arrangement and gentle vocals.

The lyrics reminisce about days spent with a loved one, emphasizing that the small moments of everyday life shared together are miracles and gifts.

It’s the perfect song for those who want to savor the feeling of the season or cherish time with someone special.

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