Classic winter ballads. Recommended winter ballad roundup [2026]
Winter tends to make us yearn for connection and feel sentimental, and combined with the beauty of winter scenery, ballads fit the season perfectly.
In fact, many popular winter songs are ballads, and this article rounds up just such beloved winter ballads.
We’ve gathered a wide range of tracks—from timeless standards and classics to winter songs by today’s popular artists.
Whether it’s Christmas, a quiet winter night alone, a day on the slopes, or a winter drive, find the perfect song to match your mood for any winter scene.
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Classic winter ballads. Recommended winter ballad roundup [2026] (71–80)
Before winter endsShimizu Shota
This song, with its memorable music video that begins with a quarrel between a man and a woman, is Shota Shimizu’s “Before Winter Ends.” It’s a love song dedicated to couples who want to meet but can’t.
It portrays the straightforward feeling of “I want to see you” shared by long-distance couples and those who live nearby but are too busy to meet.
Amid the heartbreak, it holds a warm sentiment that feels encouraging.
Bolero of Winter WitheringNaoto Intiraymi
We present a heartwarming ballad that dramatizes a breakup and reunion with a lover, set against evocative, wintery cityscapes.
Naoto Inti Raymi’s digital single, released in January 2025, is a gem that gently sings of the bittersweet feelings of lovers who drift apart and the joy of finding each other again.
Its lavish string arrangement blends beautifully with his warm, resonant vocals.
The track is included on the April album Intersection, positioned as a core song celebrating the 15th anniversary of his debut.
From the rush of spotting a loved one in a crowded street to the renewed resolve to walk forward together, the tapestry of emotions woven here makes it the ultimate love song—perfect for warming the heart in the cold season and for anyone seeking to feel the bond with someone special.
First snowAYANE
Singer-songwriter AYANE, known for songs that empathize with young people’s emotions, has been attracting attention.
Her 2022 release “First Snow” is a dramatic number that unfolds a story of snowfall growing heavier as two people, newly stirred by romantic feelings, grow closer.
Set to a rhythmical, hip-hop-based track, the melody warms the winter chill.
Her clear, translucent voice captures scenes overflowing with longing for someone special, making the song feel like the very beginning of love.
If It SnowsDREAMS COME TRUE
DREAMS COME TRUE’s “Moshimo Yuki Nara” is a double A-side single released in 2006, noted for its beautiful depictions of wintry scenes.
The lyrics, which portray adult romance, are captivating and likely resonate with many listeners.
The song is extremely popular among fans and is frequently featured at concerts and on music programs.
Its melody is rich and the arrangement makes it easy to express the song’s emotions freely, which also makes it a favorite for karaoke.
While it’s mainly a ballad, it includes a few uplifting moments, making it well-suited for karaoke and a great recommendation for gatherings with a wide range of ages.
Together…MAX
MAX, the dance-vocal group that celebrated their 25th anniversary in 2020, has released a newly recorded, rearranged version of their classic 1999 track “Issho ni…”.
It’s a highly popular medium-tempo ballad—unusual for MAX, who are best known for dance-focused songs—singing about feelings of love that grow stronger in the cold month of December.
The new version’s music video also features Asahi Nao, who is from the same agency as MAX, so be sure to check it out!
SubtitleOfisharu Higedan Dism
The song that drew attention as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “silent” is Official HIGE DANDism’s “Subtitle.” Released in 2022 as a digital-only single, it reached No.
1 on both the Billboard and Oricon charts.
To capture a wintry image for the track, the band reportedly held a writing camp in Hokkaido.
It’s a captivating number featuring Official HIGE DANDism’s characteristically intricate chord progressions and vocalist Satoshi Fujihara’s soaring high notes.
Forgotten Snowkatawara
A new song has arrived that conveys the chill of winter while delivering warmth to the heart.
This work from katawara centers on the harshness of winter and the loneliness of parting.
The delicate harmonies of the male–female twin vocals seep into the listener’s heart.
Released in December 2024, the track showcases their growth.
The gentle tones born from the harmony of piano and guitar are particularly striking.
It’s best enjoyed on a winter night, gazing out the window.
While cherishing past memories, you’ll feel a sense of hope for the future—an experience sure to warm your heart.