[2026] Upbeat winter J‑Pop: Energetic winter songs
As winter approaches each year, lots of winter-themed songs get released, and you start hearing winter songs more often on TV and around town.
While the charm of winter songs lies in their ability to evoke a wintry atmosphere, that image tends to mean there are a lot of ballads.
So for those who feel, “I want to listen to songs that get me pumped even in winter!!,” this article rounds up a bunch of upbeat, light winter tracks all in one go!
From timeless classics to the latest releases, we’ve gathered lively tunes that will lift your spirits—be sure to give them a listen!
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[2026] Up-tempo Winter J-Pop: Hype Winter Songs (61–70)
I don’t want to get out of my futon.Uchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai
Uchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai always delivers hilariously quirky songs wrapped in a rock sound.
As you can tell from the title, this track, “I Don’t Want to Get Out of the Futon,” riffs on a universal winter problem—those all-too-relatable winter moments.
The music video features the adorable, soothing character Koopen-chan, and the song starts off mellow… but then it suddenly flips partway through, making you laugh—and totally relate.
The chorus hits with a level of empathy that makes you want to throw your fist in the air and belt it out.
It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at karaoke!
A winter fairy is melting a snowmanKimura Kaera
A singer who also shines as a fashion model, Kaela Kimura released “A winter fairy is melting a snowman” in 2010.
Riding a dance beat infused with bright synth tones, her girly vocals resonate throughout.
The lyrics depict a fantasy world, yet they also evoke a somewhat realistic love story.
The repeatedly sung chorus conveys a warm feeling directed at a loved one.
How about giving this pop song a listen to liven up the cold winter season?
My lover is Santa ClausMatsutōya Yumi
When it comes to classic Japanese songs that play at Christmas, you can’t leave out Yumi Matsutoya’s “Koibito ga Santa Claus” (My Lover Is Santa Claus).
It’s a track from her 1980 album SURF & SNOW, and despite never being released as a single, it’s one of her most beloved signature songs.
Its upbeat lyrics and driving rhythm are perfect for the festive holiday season.
It’s also been covered by many artists, including Seiko Matsuda and Hiroji Miyamoto of Elephant Kashimashi.
Holidays ft. Earth, Wind & FireMeghan Trainor
“Holidays” is a song by American singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor.
Featuring the renowned funk band Earth, Wind & Fire—who are also well known in Japan—it was included on her 2020 Christmas album, A Very Trainor Christmas.
It’s a funky, soulful track with an upbeat rhythm that makes you want to move, and it’s a perfect fit for the festive Christmas atmosphere.
SUKI-SUKISCANDAL
SCANDAL, known for being recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest-running all-female rock band with the same members, has drawn high praise both in Japan and abroad.
Here, I’d like to introduce their 2016 winter song “SUKI-SUKI.” The track contrasts the beauty of winter scenery with a woman anxiously unable to confess her feelings to the person she likes.
Its driving sound seems to express the passage of time and her growing impatience.
Santa ClausELLEGARDEN
A memorable track featuring a wistful melody that evokes the arrival of winter and a driving, fast-paced rhythm.
It’s included on ELLEGARDEN’s album “DON’T TRUST ANYONE BUT US,” released in April 2002.
Takeshi Hosomi’s emotional vocals convey a bittersweet longing for his lover.
The simple gifts delivered through Santa Claus overflow with tenderness and symbolize the couple’s relationship.
The lyrics, which hint at a temporary parting, communicate a sense of sorrow and loneliness.
This song’s charm lies in the contrast between its upbeat sound—like it could blow away the winter chill—and its heartwarming lyrics.
It’s a perfect track for making Christmas memories with your partner on a cold winter night.
You and the slopesSHISHAMO
SHISHAMO is a three-piece rock band whose unforgettable, impactful name and girlishly cute yet delicate lyrical world captivate fans.
Their fourth single, “Kimi to Gelände,” used as the ending theme for the sports program Kyo-Spo, is a rock track whose tight band ensemble amps up the tension.
Although the story depicts heartbreak, the poppy melody that blows those feelings away is striking.
Its sense of speed makes it a catchy, up-tempo tune that livens up winter-only events.
