Recommended Autumn Songs for People in Their 80s: A Collection of Seasonal Kayōkyoku and Children's Songs

Because the moon is so very blueSugawara Totoko

Sugawara Toto-ko, “Because the Moon Is So Very Blue”

Totoko Sugawara’s classic “Because the Moon Is So Blue” is a song cherished by many seniors for its lyrics that evoke the poignancy and beauty of autumn nights, set to a lovely melody.

Despite the music market being only about one-thirtieth the size it is today at the time of its 1955 release, the song became a massive hit, selling over one million copies.

It is said to have been inspired by “Suzukake no Komichi” on the Rikkyo University campus, and it memorably depicts two people who meet by chance walking there under the moonlight.

The song also served as the theme for a Nikkatsu film of the same name, and it has since secured its status as a standard, covered by many artists including Yujiro Ishihara and Masako Mori.

It’s a piece you’ll want to listen to on a long autumn night while gazing at the moon and indulging in fond memories.

A café in a student districtGaro

GARO – Gakuseigai no Kissaten (Official Audio)

GARO’s “Gakuseigai no Kissaten” (The Coffee Shop in the Student Quarter) is a moving classic where a beautiful melody and delicate lyrics blend exquisitely.

It conveys a longing for bygone student days and a desire to cherish irreplaceable memories.

Released in 1972, it became a major hit, spending seven consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

For those in their 80s, it’s sure to be a lovely cue to remember their youth.

Why not relax, listen to the music, and let your thoughts drift back to those days?

Stars in the night skyKayama Yūzō

Stars in the Night Sky / Yuzo Kayama

Yuzo Kayama’s “Yozora no Hoshi” (Stars in the Night Sky) is a classic released in December 1965.

With romantic lyrics that depict the beauty of the night sky and the bond between lovers, paired with Kayama’s warm vocals, the song truly moves the heart.

It was also used as a memorable theme song for the film “The Young Guy with an Electric Guitar,” and can be considered a piece that symbolizes Kayama’s versatile talent.

It’s the perfect song for gazing up at the night sky and envisioning a future walked together with someone special.

Be sure to listen to it while looking at the stars—it will surely kindle a light of hope in your heart.

I found a little sign of autumn.dōyō

♪ I found a little autumn – Somebody, somebody, somebody found it ~ ♪ <with gestures>

Chiisai Aki Mitsuketa (I Found a Little Autumn) is a children’s song by Hachiro Sato and Yoshinao Nakata.

Its lyrics convey the joy of discovering autumn through subtle changes in nature and everyday scenes.

With evocative language, it delicately depicts details such as the sound of the wind, children’s voices, and views through the frosted glass of a north-facing room.

Written in 1955 for a special NHK program and recorded in 1962, it has been widely loved ever since.

Its heartwarming melody and graceful lyrics are perfect for moments when you want to savor autumn slowly.

Why not sing it leisurely to a piano accompaniment?

The Night Wind of the JourneyKirishima Noboru, Misu Koromubia

The Night Wind of the Journey

The 1938 popular song “Tabi no Yokaze” (Night Wind of the Journey) by Noboru Kirishima and Miss Columbia was an unprecedented hit at the time and has remained a beloved classic ever since.

Its appeal lies in lyrics that beautifully portray a man who strides powerfully through life while facing harsh nature, the loneliness of a traveler, and feelings for a loved one.

It is also famous as the theme song for the film “Aizen Katsura,” and the anecdotes from Noboru Kirishima’s performances are fascinating as well.

Many people may find encouragement from this song when they stand at a crossroads in life and struggle over which path to take.

Listening to it together with older adults who have walked a long road in life would likely spark lively conversation.

Harvest Moon over Mount AkagiTōkairin Tarō

Harvest Moon over Mount Akagi

Taro Shoji’s “Meigetsu Akagiyama” is one of the iconic masterpieces of the Showa era.

Since its release in 1939, it has been cherished by many, and its lyrics—depicting the beautiful scenery of Mount Akagi and the brave life of Kunisada Chūji—are deeply etched in the hearts of the Japanese people.

Clad in a tailcoat and singing with a perfectly upright posture, Shoji’s majestic voice moved all who listened.

Leading Japan’s music scene from before the war through the postwar period, Shoji’s songs continue to shine without losing their luster.

How about listening to this classic together with someone in their eighties? It will surely bring back memories of those days.

Good evening, Mr. Moon.Fujishima Takeo

Otuki San Konbanwa

Toshio Fujishima’s classic “Good Evening, Moon.” Its melody evokes a bittersweet longing and nostalgia, and the lyrics—set in the Japanese countryside—leave a lasting impression.

With an apple orchard as the backdrop, the words speak to the moon as if confiding lingering feelings and deep affection for a lover once shared time with.

Released in 1957, the song is widely cherished as one of Fujishima’s signature works and is still sung today, including at karaoke.

Why not let this nostalgic tune play as you leisurely reminisce? I hope you can enjoy a warm, comforting moment while looking back on the past.