[2026] Upbeat winter J‑Pop: Energetic winter songs

Why haven’t I fallen in love?Sakurazaka46

Sakurazaka46 'Why Haven’t I Fallen in Love Before?'

Sakurazaka46, an idol group whose songs portray young people’s feelings from a unique perspective, has been gaining popularity.

“Naze Koi o Shite Konakattan Darou?” included on their 2020 single “Nobody’s fault,” is a song that sings of the joy of meeting the person one loves more than anyone else, alongside sentiments directed at one’s former self who viewed romance with a cynical eye.

The sound opens with strings and beautiful choral work, then unfolds with a driving band performance.

Their rich harmonies convey both passion and composure, allowing listeners to read a spectrum of emotions.

Give this uptempo track a listen—it’s perfect for elevating a romance that blossoms in winter.

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Snow WorldSnow Man

Snow Man「Snow World」Music Video YouTube Ver.

Snow Man is an idol group whose members are active across a wide range of stages, including TV, dramas, and theater.

“Snow World” is a track included on their debut single, “D.D./Imitation Rain,” released in 2020.

The song unfolds with melodies and lyrics full of bright hope and courage, perfectly matching their dazzling performances as they sing and dance on stage.

It’s an idol song that portrays never losing a passionate heart even in the cold, snowy season, by pressing forward toward dreams and goals.

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Kiss Me, WinterFIVE NEW OLD

FIVE NEW OLD – Kiss Me, Winter【Official Music Video】

A song that beautifully fuses winter’s wistfulness with warmth has arrived from FIVE NEW OLD.

With its stylish, up-tempo groove and poignant melody, this track holds the power to melt hearts frozen by the cold.

Released in November 2023, it has drawn significant media attention, including being selected as the campaign song for FM Yokohama’s winter campaign “Hot Winter Magic.” It’s the perfect pick for those seeking heartwarming music in the cold season or a track to listen to alone on a winter night.

Let FIVE NEW OLD’s charm color your winter evenings with this captivating piece.

nomineeCYNHN

nominee

CYNHN’s new song is a work infused with hope and anticipation for the future.

The title, which means “the recommended one,” reflects their desire to be recognized in the music scene.

You can feel their ambitious stance in the inversion of their blue-themed worldview and their challenge to the contemporary music landscape.

Digitally released on January 1, 2025, the track is a lead single from the album “INVERSIOИ.” It’s a recommended listen for those who want to discover a new side of CYNHN or connect with its down-to-earth lyrics.

Tonight is a Hearty PartyJuice=Juice

Juice=Juice “Hearty Party Tonight” Promotion Edit

This work, a cover of Mariya Takeuchi’s classic song, is brimming with fun and warmth.

It portrays how people forget their everyday worries and gain energy for tomorrow through parties with friends.

It’s included on a single set for release in February 2025 and has also been chosen as a TV program theme.

When it was first performed at the Nippon Budokan in November 2024, the Christmas party–themed production reportedly brought the house down.

It’s the perfect track for when you want to enjoy time with friends or when you need a boost of energy.

snow moonRyosuke Yamada

Ryosuke Yamada – “snow moon” [Official Music Video]

A gem of a medium-tempo ballad that weaves a heartrending love story against a stage of moonlight shining in the winter night sky and gently falling snow.

Sung by Ryosuke Yamada of Hey! Say! JUMP, this piece tenderly embraces the feelings of someone confronting memories of a bygone love while trying to take a new step forward.

Carried by delicate tones of piano and strings, the lustrous vocals seep into the heart.

Set for digital release in February 2025, this song is recommended for those who want to look up at the moon alone on a winter night and reflect on precious memories.

Amid a quiet snowy landscape, it will stay close to your heart.

pedestrian overpassNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Footbridge”

This song by Nogizaka46 is a moving piece themed around life’s choices and taking a step toward the future.

Through the image of a protagonist hesitating over whether to cross a pedestrian bridge in the season of cold, wintry winds, it portrays the emotional wavering that accompanies decisions.

Katsuhiko Sugiyama’s melody and Yasushi Akimoto’s lyrics blend beautifully, resulting in a delicate and touching work.

Released on December 11, 2024, the track features Sakura Endo as the center, and among fans it’s been talked about as a possible answer song to “Kikkake.” It’s a perfect song for those standing at a crossroads in life or considering a new challenge.