[Winter Love Songs] A curated selection of timeless classics and the latest tracks that offer both warmth and heartbreak

GIFTNissy (Takahiro Nishijima)

Nissy (Takahiro Nishijima) / “GIFT” Music Video

A perfect Christmas number that conveys just how much she loves him.

It’s a track from Nissy (Takahiro Nishijima)’s 2016 album HOCUS POCUS.

Both the lyrics and the music video depict a boyfriend who’s late for their Christmas date; even as she throws reproachful words at him, the look on her face says “I’m so happy to see you,” and that only makes his feelings for her grow even stronger—warming your heart in the process.

The sparkling sound and catchy tempo also ramp up the Christmas mood.

I want to protect youJUJU

JUJU “I Want to Protect You” — Song featured in the film “Because I Met You” / November theme song for Nippon TV’s “Sukkiri!”

It’s a ballad filled with a straightforward message: “No matter what happens from now on, I’ll always be with you.” The song was provided by Yuzu and was featured in the film ‘It All Began When I Met You.

’ If someone felt this way about me, I’d honestly be so happy, and I’d feel like I could take on anything from here on out.

Whether you’re in a relationship or not, why not listen while thinking of someone important to you? The sweeping sound and sincere love are sure to soothe your heart.

Beyond the Night SkySMAP

Beyond the Night Sky – SMAP

This is the song that I start wanting to listen to when that winter scent begins to fill the air: “Yozora no Mukō.” Released by SMAP in 1998 as their 27th single, it has been lovingly passed down ever since, covered by many artists.

It’s a track that evokes nostalgia for days gone by and continues to be cherished by people of all ages.

Its gentle, soothing melody naturally conjures up the image of the night sky, and it makes you hope that, even as the weather turns cold, you can welcome tomorrow with someone special just like always.

Please enjoy this timeless masterpiece that touches the heart no matter how many times you hear it.

Mr.SnowmanE-girls

e-girls / Mr.Snowman

Winter is practically the season for lovers, packed with exciting events that make your heart race! And for the first big event—Christmas—the song you’ll want to listen to is e-girls’ “Mr.

Snowman.” It’s a delightful, feel-good pop tune perfect for anyone who has a crush or wants to find a partner by Christmas.

It portrays a girl who’s proactive in love, and it’ll give you a boost of courage.

Crank up the excitement to the max and enjoy the lead-up to Christmas!

Before winter endsShota Shimizu

Shota Shimizu “Before Winter Ends” MV

This is a love song I recommend for people in long-distance relationships who can’t see their partner very often.

It’s included on Shota Shimizu’s 2011 album “Before Winter Ends.” You can feel from the lyrics how the feelings of love grow stronger the more time you spend apart.

The depiction of trying so hard to distract yourself that you start seeing hallucinations of your partner is also cute.

If you’re currently in a long-distance relationship, I think you’ll relate to it, and it might even give you a push to go see your partner.

Hopefully you can at least be together for Christmas.

Christmas EveTatsuro Yamashita

Nana Eikura stars in Tatsuro Yamashita’s “Christmas Eve” special movie-version PV

Christmas Eve, sung by Tatsuro Yamashita, is the quintessential Christmas song that grabs you from the intro.

When it comes to winter love songs, this is the one! Released in 1983, just as the idea of Christmas was shifting from being spent with family to being spent with a romantic partner, it’s been impossible to get through the holiday season without hearing it ever since.

This song, which portrays spending Christmas Eve alone while holding on to an unfulfilled love, has resonated with many—bringing tears, offering warmth, and keeping them company.

The melody, the vocals, the choral work—everything is perfect.

Mikuni Stationaiko

aiko - “Sangoku Station” music video

It evokes a certain nostalgia, contrasting youthful love from student days with a clumsy kind of romance where, despite being unable to be honest, the feelings only grow larger.

It was her 17th single overall, released in 2005.

Mikuni Station is on the Hankyu Takarazuka Line in Yodogawa Ward, Osaka City, and it’s one stop before Shonai Station—the nearest station to Osaka College of Music Junior College, from which Aiko herself graduated.

It’s a slightly bittersweet song that has Aiko reminiscing about love from her student days.

It carries a somewhat bluesy vibe—perfect for winter!