I know it’s the day before Christmas in America (or Christmas Day in Japan) but here are some Japanese language songs that you should add to your playlist to truly make your Christmas complete:

5) クリスマスキャロルの頃には 「Kurisumasu Kyaroruno koroni wa」

Christmas Carol no koro ni wa by Junichi Inagaki

Your first thought might be “Wow, this song is too 80’s” but if you have Wham!’s “Last Christmas on your playlist, then this will compliment it nicely.

4) 恋人がサンタクロース　「Koibito ga Santa Kuroosu」

Sweetheart is Santa Claus by Yumi Matsutoya

Another rockin’ 80’s song, that made the list just because of how 80’s it is.
Maybe this song is the flip side of “Back Door Santa”?

3) Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence

by Ryuichi Sakamoto

Ryuichi Sakamoto is one of the most renowned pianists from Japan, and this song from the movie of the same name will add a beautiful classical instrumental into your playlist. Not a traditional Christmas song, but beautiful nonetheless.

2) 素敵なホリデイ/竹内まりや 「sutekina horidei」

Superb Holiday by Mariya Takeuchi

I first heard this song on a commercial for chicken from a convenience store, but it’s what I consider the most traditional original Christmas song from Japan. Upbeat and springy, and often played at Christmas concerts!

Fun fact: Could be mistakenly translated as “Sexy Holiday”.

1) クリスマス・イブ「Kurisumasu ibu」

Christmas Eve by Tatsuro Yamashita

I’ve mentioned Tatsuro Yamashita before, but if you add only one song from Japan to your playlist, it should be this one. Definitely 80’s, but it feels like it could fit into any playlist and belong. Not to mention the AWESOME accapella breakdown in the middle.

Until next time, STAY AWESOME and MERRY CHRISTMAS!