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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 in the cold season (121–130)

Magic of a winter nightindigo la End

“Fuyuya no Magic” (Winter Night’s Magic) is a song by the rock band indigo la End, led by Enon Kawatani of Gesu no Kiwami Otome.

It’s their eighth major-label single, released exclusively for digital distribution, and it’s also included on the album “PULSATE.” The lyrics, which evoke the ache of heartbreak, combined with the chilly winter atmosphere, leave you with a bittersweet, emotional feeling.

The music video featuring Kawatani captures the song’s lyrical world as well, so be sure to check it out!

broad daylightKing Gnu

Hakujitsu, sung by the rock band King Gnu—famed for their high musicality—is a single they released digitally in 2019.

Written as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama Innocence: False Accusation Lawyer starring Kentaro Sakaguchi, it topped Billboard’s streaming chart.

The music video on YouTube has racked up over 370 million views.

With lyrics featuring words like “pure white” and “snow,” along with Satoru Iguchi’s emotive vocals, it’s the perfect track to listen to in winter.

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.

[Winter Songs] Timeless tracks to hear in winter: songs you long for in the cold (131–140)

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.