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

Winter BellsKuraki Mai

Winter Bells

Speaking of Mai Kuraki, she’s also well known for providing many tie-in songs for the TV anime Detective Conan.

This single she released in January 2002 has a distinctly Christmas-song vibe, and it was used as an opening theme for Detective Conan.

It features a bouncy rhythm, sparkling sound arrangements, and gospel-style choral work.

The upbeat track blows away the winter chill, and its lyrics charmingly portray the warm emotions of lovers.

If you sing it at a karaoke gathering of Conan fans, it’s sure to get everyone fired up!

Winter Wonder WanderMinase Inori

Inori Minase “Winter Wonder Wander” Animated Music Clip

This song, sung by voice actor and artist Inori Minase, whose transparent, clear singing voice is so appealing, paints a fantastical picture of a winter night.

It’s included on her fifth single, “Ready Steady Go!”, released in November 2017.

Although it wasn’t tied to any TV anime, it’s a highly regarded track among fans.

Set to a gentle melody, the lyrics portray someone wandering through the cold season in search of a warm encounter.

It’s the kind of song that makes you want to hold hands with someone special and take a walk while gazing up at the winter night sky.

With its light, airy sound and heartwarming, tender tone, it seems sure to make you forget the chill of winter.

SUKI-SUKISCANDAL

SCANDAL 『SUKI-SUKI』Short Ver.

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.

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Snowin’DXTEEN

DXTEEN | 「Snowin’」Official MV ＜3RD SINGLE『Snowin’』(2024.01.31 Release)＞

This is a winter track featuring an up-tempo, catchy melody and heartwarming lyrics.

Through scenes of snowy winter, it delicately depicts the warm encounters and emotions found amidst the cold.

Marking a major milestone for DXTEEN, this third single was released in January 2024 and reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, selling 44,002 copies.

Achieving such success just eight months after their debut speaks to their growth and rising popularity.

It’s a perfect pick for anyone seeking a feel-good pop song for the cold season or music fans who want to experience the ascent of a talented young group.

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.

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.