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 Collection [2026] (81–90)
reverse dreamKing Gnu
King Gnu’s “Ichizu (Reverse Dream)” was written as the ending theme for the anime film Jujutsu Kaisen 0.
Released in 2021 as their fourth single, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Singles Chart as well as Billboard Japan’s streaming and download charts.
True to its title—which evokes “a dream that never came true”—it’s a ballad that leaves you with a poignant, fleeting feeling.
The lyrics portray being swallowed by a freezing winter while waiting for spring, making it a masterpiece that matches the chill on cold days—be sure to give it a listen!
Choudai na (feat. Okiishi)MIMI
A heartwarming ballad that turns winter’s chill into warmth has arrived from MIMI.
The gentle timbre of the piano and her clear, transparent vocals nestle close to the listener’s heart.
The lyrics, which delicately portray the feelings of those carrying loneliness and solitude, are sure to resonate with many.
Released in January 2024, this song brims with MIMI’s distinctive sensibility.
Her collaboration with Okiishi is exquisite, with their two worlds blending beautifully.
It’s a song you’ll want to hear on a winter night when you find yourself longing for someone’s warmth.
I want to hug you.Mr.Children
A shining early masterpiece by Mr.Children that sparkles like the winter night sky.
Released in December 1992, this song was reportedly created for a friend’s wedding, imbued with pure affection.
Kazutoshi Sakurai’s warm vocals seep gently into the heart, as if nestling close on a cold season’s night.
Its simple yet moving melody and lyrics have never faded with time, remaining etched in many hearts.
Listen while thinking of the one you love, and your feelings will settle quietly like falling snow, wrapping your heart in warmth.
Perfect for long winter nights and special moments spent with someone dear—give it a listen.
hugiri
A piano ballad that beautifully portrays a winter world has arrived.
iri’s distinctive voice vividly colors landscapes where snow dances.
Released in January 2024, the piece was written as the campaign song for JR SKISKI 2023–2024.
With delicate wording, it weaves the feelings of trying to reconnect lost days and fraying bonds.
It’s a track that showcases the talent of iri, known for the album “Groove it.” Highly recommended for anyone carrying feelings as fragile as snow.
somedayyuzu
It’s a classic that gently wraps winter’s bittersweet feeling.
Yuzu’s beautiful harmonies really resonate in the heart.
Released in January 1999, this song expresses the feelings of thinking about someone dear as winter arrives.
It’s also included on the album “Uta Jiki ~Sakura Saku Hen~,” and is cherished as one of Yuzu’s signature songs.
The anecdote that Yuujin Kitagawa wrote and composed it from a sudden burst of inspiration is fascinating too.
It’s perfect for winter nights when you want to spend time alone or sink into memories with someone special.
Yuzu’s warm vocals will soothe your heart in the cold season.
lightSutoreitenā×Hata Motohiro
Akari is a collaboration between the four-piece rock band Straightener and singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata.
Released in 2017, it marks the first collaboration in Straightener’s history.
Both artists have gentle singing voices, making this pairing truly unbeatable.
Set in winter, the song is a heartwarming ballad that depicts the joy of being able to meet a lover.
It seeps into a body chilled by the cold season.
It’s a mid-tempo number gently wrapped in acoustic guitar and a softly textured band sound.
Winter Ballad Masterpieces: Recommended Winter Ballads Compilation [2026] (91–100)
Gift of the Holy NightHata Motohiro
Motohiro Hata’s winter song opens with a beautiful scene that evokes a quiet night blanketed in snow.
His gentle voice and the piano’s tone are soothing, making it a lovely track that conveys warmth even in the cold.
Included on the album “Ao no Koukei,” the song was released in December 2015 and was also used in a commercial for House “Hokkaido Stew.” It was Hata’s first Christmas song as well.
It’s the kind of piece you’ll want to listen to on Christmas Eve with someone special, or during a quiet winter night on your own.
Hearing it might warm your heart, even in the cold season.