[For Seniors] Beloved songs to sing in December: heartwarming moments with nostalgic kayōkyoku and children’s songs

A Journey Through Wind and SnowKitajima Saburō

Saburo Kitajima “Kansetsu Nagare Tabi” (Official Audio)

Released in 1980 by Saburō Kitajima, a giant of the enka world, this song was created by the golden duo of lyricist Tetsurō Hoshino and composer Tōru Funamura.

It portrays the life of a traveling performer journeying through the snowbound north with a Tsugaru shamisen in hand.

From childhood, he has roamed from place to place with only his shamisen, and his struggle to live on even amid blizzards is deeply moving.

The lyrics mention northern locales such as Tsugaru, Hakodate, and Otaru, conveying both the harshness of winter and the loneliness of the road.

As the chill of December sinks in, why not hum along while picturing the nostalgic scenery of the far north?

Mother’s Songkubota satoru

Mother's Song (with lyrics)

This is a children’s song by Satoshi Kubota that quietly stirs the heart with feelings for one’s mother.

Composed in 1956, it was also broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1962, sung by Peggy Hayama.

The piece was born from Kubota’s own experiences of evacuation during the war and his memories of receiving hand-knitted items from his mother.

It portrays a mother staying up late into the night to knit gloves, and the warmth carried by letters from home.

It may bring back days when you were supported by your mother, or memories from when you were raising your own children.

A heartwarming song that renews one’s sense of gratitude to mothers.

wintering swallowMori Masako

wintering swallow

For many older people, the “Chuu-3 Trio” were like idols in today’s terms.

Momoe Yamaguchi and Junko Sakurada might have had fans among seniors, too.

And of course, Masako Mori shone—she was like a pure, gentle little sister.

Her 41st single, “Ettou Tsubame” (Wintering Swallow), is one of her signature songs.

The lyrics, which compare a woman living through an unrequited love to a swallow enduring the cold, are heartbreakingly moving.

I’d love to hear not only women but men sing it as well.

The trick is to keep the A and B melodies restrained.

It’s a classic winter song that’s been covered by artists like Akina Nakamori and Chikaco Sawada.

Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu

Miagete Goran Yoru No Hoshi Wo

This is a classic song in which Kyu Sakamoto’s gentle singing voice resonates with the heart.

It celebrates the beauty of the glittering stars in the night sky and carries a message that offers people hope and comfort.

Released in 1963, it won the Composer’s Award at the 5th Japan Record Awards.

It is also known as a musical number, with Kyu Sakamoto himself starring.

It’s recommended listening on Christmas night while gazing at the starry sky from your window.

Why not make a wish upon the stars and hum along with someone special?

Tsugaru Strait Winter SceneIshikawa Sayuri

Tsugaru Strait – Winter Scene

From the very first notes, Sayuri Ishikawa’s signature song “Tsugaru Strait – Fuyugeshiki” instantly draws you into the winter scenery of Japan’s Tohoku region.

Released in 1977, the song won numerous awards, including the Japan Record Award for Vocal Performance, and has been covered by many artists.

It depicts a journey from Tokyo to Hokkaido, with various place names appearing in the lyrics.

It might be fun to take this song along and go on a “pilgrimage” to its locations during a trip with your spouse or friends.

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You Are the One Who Rings That BellWada Akiko

Anokanewo Narasunoha Anata

Akiko Wada’s “Ano Kane wo Narasu no wa Anata” sweeps away the winter chill with its powerful vocals and moving lyrics.

Released in 1972, this song has a familiar melody for older adults.

The lyrics, which sing of “you” who bring hope and change, can also spark reminiscence.

As a classic that won the Japan Record Award’s Best Vocal Performance, it’s sure to get everyone excited when sung together.

Singing involves opening the mouth widely, which can also help prevent aspiration.

I hope you’ll sing it together with older adults and enjoy a delightful time.

Pechka (a type of Russian masonry stove)Sakushi: Kitahara Hakushū / Sakkyoku: Yamada Kōsaku

Pechka (Winter Children's Song)

This is a nursery song that paints a warm scene of people gathered around a fireplace, talking on a cold, snowy night.

Created by the golden duo of Hakushū Kitahara and Kōsaku Yamada for children living in Manchuria, it was included in the 1924 collection Manchurian Songbook: For Elementary Grades 1 and 2.

Later, it was featured on NHK’s Minna no Uta from December 1965 to January 1966, and gained wider popularity thanks to visuals by picture-book artist Rokurō Taniuchi.

You can almost feel the quiet of the night as they gaze into the fire, savoring the aroma of roasted chestnuts and the crackle of sparks.

Even when it’s cold outside, the warmth of time spent with family seeps into the heart—making this a perfect song for winter.