Spring songs from the early Showa era: a collection of kayōkyoku and shōka that evoke spring
When you hear “spring,” what songs come to mind?In the early Showa era, spanning from before to after the war, many popular songs, school songs, and children’s songs were created that delicately captured the changing seasons.In this special feature, we present a rich selection of songs and school songs about spring from that time.Some of the linked audio-video materials use original recordings from the era, so please savor the spring air of those days along with the retro sound.We hope you enjoy a gentle springtime, humming along to these nostalgic melodies.
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Spring songs from the early Showa era. A collection of popular songs and school songs that evoke spring (51–60)
We Look Up to You with Respectshouka
A classic song for spring is Aogeba Tōtoshi, familiar from graduation ceremonies.
For many people, hearing this song brings back the feeling that spring has arrived.
Although the details of the song are unclear, it was first published in the 1884 collection Shōgaku Shōka (Elementary School Songs).
Happy Hinamatsuri
In 2006, in Japan, 101 songs selected from children’s songs, school songs, and popular songs—chosen by the Agency for Cultural Affairs with the aim of being passed down between parents and children for generations—were announced as the “100 Selections of Japanese Songs.” The piece introduced in this article, “Ureshii Hinamatsuri,” is one of those 101 selections.
It hardly needs explanation as it is a famous children’s song that everyone has heard.
Released in 1935 as a children’s song with lyrics by Hachiro Sato and music by Chokurei Kawamura, “Ureshii Hinamatsuri,” as its title suggests, is themed around the Doll Festival (Hinamatsuri).
Interestingly, despite its lyrics evoking the joy and sentiment of spending a delightful time during Hinamatsuri, the song is set primarily in minor keys—what is commonly called a “minor mode.” It is also true that the lyrics contain some inaccurate depictions of actual Hina dolls.
Nevertheless, the excellence of the composition remains unchanged, which is why, as mentioned at the beginning, it continues to be loved as one of Japan’s representative spring children’s songs.
hometownshouka
Blue mountains, pure waters, and memories of childhood play.
The gentle melody that wraps these scenes of a beloved hometown, along with feelings for family and friends living far away, holds a universal appeal that resonates with everyone.
First published in 1914 as a Ministry of Education school song, this piece was created by Tatsuyuki Takano and Teiichi Okano, vividly reflecting the rural landscapes and lifestyles of Japan at the time.
It was sung at the closing ceremony of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, moving countless people.
Its simple, memorable melody in G major and triple meter continues to be sung at life’s milestones, such as graduation and coming-of-age ceremonies.
With lyrics and melody that evoke nostalgia, it is truly a song that stands by all who live away from their hometowns—a work that can be said to symbolize the heart of Japan.
Happy HinamatsuriKawamura Junko
With the arrival of spring, the Doll’s Festival (Hinamatsuri) is celebrated by decorating with colorful lanterns and peach blossoms.
A song that beautifully captures this seasonal scene is “Ureshii Hinamatsuri” by Junko Kawamura.
Since its release in 1936, this beloved tune has been cherished in homes across Japan, a classic that people of all ages find themselves humming.
Listening to it evokes an immediate sense of spring and brings a gentle warmth to the heart.
The lyrics by Hachirō Satō portray the Hinamatsuri landscape, where family bonds and tender moments intertwine, leaving a deep impression on the listener.
Included on the albums “Junko Kawamura: A Journey Through Children’s Songs I” and “Junko Kawamura: A Journey Through Children’s Songs II,” its nostalgic melody remains timeless even today.
It’s the kind of song you’ll want to hear each time spring returns.
Spring songs from the early Shōwa era. A collection of popular songs and school songs that evoke spring (61–70)
Blue MountainsFuji Yama Ichirou, Nara Mitsue
“Blue Mountain Range” is a song loved by many Japanese people, a Showa-era popular tune released in 1949, shortly after the war.
It was created as the theme song for a film directed by Tadashi Imai, based on the novel of the same name by Yojiro Ishizaka.
The original performance was a duet by Ichiro Fujiyama and Mitsue Nara.
Because Ms.
Nara passed away early, Mr.
Fujiyama’s solo rendition became more famous, and the song transcended its role as a movie theme to become a truly national anthem of hope for postwar Japan.
The lyrics were written by Yaso Saijo and the music composed by Ryoichi Hattori.
Notably, both Fujiyama and Hattori later received the People’s Honor Award, making it interesting that this song involved two such honorees.
Incidentally, Blue Mountain Range has been adapted multiple times into films and TV dramas, and each time this song has been used as the theme, with many other singers also performing it—so be sure to check those versions out as well!
The country where cherry blossoms bloomOSK Nihon Kagekidan
The song “Sakura Saku Kuni,” which revives the sentiment of the prewar era, was performed by the OSK Nippon Revue Company.
Since the 1930 production “Spring Dance Sakura,” it has become established as the theme song for their spring performances.
Ever since, it has been cherished across generations.
The lyrics depict cherry blossom petals fluttering in the air, bringing a refreshing breeze of spring to the listener’s heart.
It is also known as a fight song for the professional baseball team, the Kintetsu Buffaloes.
In conclusion
We’ve shared a wide selection of spring songs—popular tunes, kayōkyoku, school songs, and children’s songs—that have been loved before, during, and after the war as times changed. In every piece, the breath of spring gently carries the feelings of the people who lived in that era. It would be wonderful if you’ve found a song you’ll want to hum each time the seasons turn. Keep your favorite spring song close in your everyday life.