Winter songs I’d recommend to teenagers who are living through their youth right now
Among teenagers likely born between fiscal years 2005 and 2014, the ones currently experiencing their youth in real time are what we call Generation Z.
In Japan, many people probably began choosing music on their own around 2018, when the era shifted from Heisei to Reiwa.
Thanks to the rise of subscription services, we can now listen to a wide range of music regardless of generation, while new classics continue to emerge.
So this time, we’ll introduce winter songs—especially tracks released in the Reiwa era—that we recommend to teens!
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- Winter songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic winter anthems that never lose their shine.
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- An emo song for winter. A winter tune that resonates with the heart.
- Recommended for people in their 40s! Winter songs born in the era of back-to-back million sellers
- Winter hit songs released in the Heisei era. Classic tracks that colored the winters of the Heisei period.
Winter songs recommended for teenagers who are living through their youth right now (11–20)
1999Hitsuji Bungaku
A song set on Christmas Eve at the end of the century, delicately portraying changing times and parting with a loved one.
It’s a track filled with Hitsujibungaku’s distinctive worldview, released in December 2018.
Moeka Shiozuka’s clear, transparent vocals and Yurika Kasai’s soaring high harmonies are striking, and Hiroa Fukuda’s delicate yet powerful drumming underpins the piece.
An English version was also released digitally in November 2021, drawing attention as a perfect number for the Christmas season.
It’s a recommended song for spending a winter night alone or when you want to look back on memories with someone special.
meringuemakaroni enpitsu
A digital-only single by Macaroni Empitsu that carries a faint sweetness amid the winter chill.
Chosen as the theme song for the JR SKISKI 2020–2021 campaign, it was released in February 2021.
The lyrics, centered on heartbreak and self-reflection, leave an impression with their delicate, wistful imagery likening feelings to snow and meringue.
Also included on the band’s major-label first album, “Hakuen End e no Kitai wa,” this track is perfect for winter listening and for looking back on youthful memories.
illumination&TEAM
This is a winter track by &TEAM, a global boy group, included on their album “Yukiakari,” released in December 2024.
The lyrics, which depict a wish to be with a loved one on a holy night wrapped in illuminations, reflect a more mature side that seeks to express feelings not only through words but through actions.
Its light arrangement—pop beats layered with sparkling synths and sleigh bells—beautifully captures winter scenery and the bittersweetness of youth.
Created as the winter installment of a song series themed around the four seasons, this piece is a perfect Christmas song for romantic moments with a partner or festive parties with friends.
Winter SongSHISHAMO
This song, performed by three girls who were still in high school and included on their self-produced album “Graduation Project,” captivates with a fragility that feels like the crisp clarity of winter air turned into sound.
Its protagonist is a girl with a one-sided crush, and the lyrics intertwine her feelings for someone out of reach with the season’s chill, evoking bittersweet memories many of us share.
Clean guitar arpeggios and the surging dynamics in the chorus create a deeply affecting finish.
The track was included on an album released in January 2013 and was later re-released alongside their major-label debut album “SHISHAMO.” Although it had no tie-in, it has steadily become a seasonal staple.
On a winter night, when you want to quietly reflect on your feelings of love alone, this song is sure to keep you company.
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.
In conclusion
This time, we introduced winter songs recommended for teenagers—what did you think? From chart-topping singles to hidden gems tucked away on albums, we hope you found a new favorite winter tune.
They’re also great picks for karaoke, so be sure to learn them and give them a try!