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A wonderful, moving song

Winter Songs: Classic tracks you want to listen to in winter. Songs you long for during the winter.

When you think of “songs you want to listen to in winter,” what comes to mind?

In the J-POP scene, countless winter songs are released every year, and there are so many popular hits as well as hidden gems!

Of course there are tracks that depict snow and Christmas, but even songs without explicit seasonal words—those whose sound evokes the atmosphere of winter—are captivating.

I’m sure you also have a special winter song of your own.

In this article, we introduce timeless tunes that will stir up fond memories or make you want to listen as they match the winter scenery.

From love songs to pieces that sing of beautiful winter landscapes, we hope you’ll find a track that resonates with your heart.

[Winter Songs] Timeless tracks to enjoy in winter: Songs you’ll long for when it’s cold (111–120)

Just… I miss youEXILE

EXILE / I Just... Want to See You - Short version -
Just... I miss youEXILE

This song poignantly sings of the sorrow of losing someone dear and the unfading feelings for that person.

Released by EXILE in December 2005, it was used as the theme for KDDI’s “au × EXILE” commercial.

It topped the Oricon charts and remained ranked for 18 weeks, becoming a massive hit.

The deep regret over a lost love and the earnest wish to meet once more are conveyed through moving melodies and lyrics.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on a winter night when memories of someone special come to mind.

[Winter Songs] Timeless tracks to enjoy in winter: songs you’ll long for in the cold season (121–130)

Snow LightClariS

ClariS “Snow Light” Lyric Music Video (Illustration: magako)
Snow LightClariS

ClariS is a two-member music duo that started out on video-sharing sites during their middle school days and made their major debut in 2010.

“Snow Light,” included on their 3rd mini-album WINTER TRACKS -Fuyu no Uta-, is delightfully soothing with its cute vocals and lively shuffle-beat rhythm.

The lyrics evoke scenes of spending time with someone you love amid the festive Christmas atmosphere, and if you’ve ever had an unrequited crush, they may overlap with your own memories.

With its transparent ensemble and catchy pop melody that lingers in your ears, it’s a pop tune perfect for winter listening.

Mad SnowKnight A – kishi A –

[MV] Mad Snow / Knight A – Kishi A –
Mad SnowKnight A - kishi A -

It’s a winter love song that portrays deep affection and heartrending conflict.

Released by Knight A – Kishi A – in December 2024, the track reflects feelings of love like snowflakes.

The deeper the love grows, the more it hurts—capturing the complex emotions that come with romance.

The sound arrangement vividly conjures winter scenes and leaves a strong impression.

It’s a must-listen for anyone seeking a winter love story during the Christmas season.

SweetieME:I

ME:I (Mei) ⊹ “Sweetie” Track Video
SweetieME:I

It’s a winter love song that sings about the sweet season of romance.

ME:I’s gentle vocals bring back warm memories of time spent with a loved one.

You can feel the happiness of sharing your first winter together and the desire to cherish everyday, little moments.

It also seems to carry gratitude for the fans, making it a heartwarming track.

Released as a digital single in December 2024, this is said to be ME:I’s first winter song.

It’s a perfect pick for winter dates or spending the holiday season with someone special.

Why not listen to it together with your loved ones—your partner, friends, or family?

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.

RikaSIX LOUNGE

“Rika” SIX LOUNGE Music Video / Illustration by Miku Masuda
RikaSIX LOUNGE

“Rika” is packed with relatable episodes for the chilly season.

It’s a track released by the three-piece rock band SIX LOUNGE.

It went viral on TikTok and drew a lot of attention, as you may know.

The song portrays the casual, everyday life of a couple.

Its laid-back tempo gives it a relaxed feel.

However, if you read the lyrics closely, a different side begins to emerge.

Be sure to check out the music video too, where a story unfolds to match the song.

Merry ChristmasTani Yuuki

Merry Christmas – Tani Yuuki [MV]
Merry ChristmasTani Yuuki

This song depicts a wintry love, where fluttering excitement and bittersweet longing intertwine.

It’s a December 2024 piece by Tani Yuuki that skillfully captures the protagonist’s wavering emotions amid the festive Christmas atmosphere.

The beautiful piano sound, the light, buoyant melody, and Tani Yuuki’s layered vocals leave a strong impression.

The lyrics convey raw feelings—like the frustration of not being able to confess to someone you love and the loneliness that comes from seeing happiness all around you.

If you’re struggling with matters of the heart, give it a listen.