[For Seniors] Heartwarming Winter Classics: A Cozy Moment with Nostalgic Kayōkyoku and Traditional Songs

Realm of the StarsSakushi: Sugitani Daikai / Sakkyoku: Chaaruzu Konvâzu

The Starry Realm (Traditional Children’s Song)

A timeless classic that makes you want to gaze up at the winter night sky, “Hoshi no Yo.” It’s a Ministry of Education song included in the 1910 publication Kyōka Tōgō Chūgaku Shōka, Volume II.

The lyrics were written by Shigeya Sugiya, and it was set to the melody of the hymn “What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” composed by Charles Converse.

The lyrics, which highlight the brilliance of stars made all the more striking by a moonless, dark sky and send our thoughts out to the distant reaches of the universe, invite us into a mysterious world filled with romance.

For many, the gentle melody brings peace along with nostalgic memories of learning it at school.

Its familiar tune is also perfect for group sing-alongs during recreational time, so why not enjoy it on a winter night when the stars are especially clear, sharing stories as you sing?

The Makioka SistersItsuki Hiroshi

The Makioka Sisters

The celebrated song by Hiroshi Itsuki, woven from Osamu Yoshioka’s lyrics and Shosuke Ichikawa’s composition, is a gem that portrays the fleeting nature of winter and the ache of a wistful love.

Released in September 1983, it became a major hit with total shipments reaching 816,000 copies.

Its beautiful lyrics depict the fragile feelings of love—symbolized by “sasameyuki” (fine, powdery snow)—and the sorrow of parting, resonating deeply with listeners.

This piece is recommended for moments of quiet reflection, as if looking back on a past romance in the stillness of winter.

It may also be lovely to listen to with older adults and let memories of the past blossom into conversation.

Snow CountryYoshi Ikuzo

Snow Country

When it comes to Ikuzo Yoshi’s signature songs, it has to be this one.

It’s a masterful ballad in which aching love and the snowscape of the north blend beautifully—Yoshi at his very best.

It topped the Oricon charts and even earned him an appearance on that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

You can picture a woman standing still in the snow, nursing the pain of a broken heart while holding close the tender feelings that lie deep within.

Anyone who has spent a lonely night shedding tears under a frigid sky will surely be moved by the sorrow and beauty this song carries.

I think it’s a classic that grows deeper with age.

Pechka (a type of Russian masonry stove)shouka

Pechka (a type of Russian masonry stove)

A nostalgic melody I used to sing with my grandparents.

This song depicts a warm scene of everyone gathering around the hearth, even amid the harsh cold of Manchuria.

Composed in 1924, it made its way from the Manchurian song collection into Japanese music textbooks and has been loved for many years.

It was also featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” so it might be nice to listen to the voices from the 1965 broadcast.

On a cold winter’s day, humming this tune together with your grandchildren and great-grandchildren will surely strengthen the bonds of family.

rime iceHashi Yukio

rime ice

This is a classic song that portrays the chill of winter and the heartache of lost love.

It conveys the lingering attachment to a love that vanished as fleetingly as rime ice, and the sorrow of still loving that person while not even knowing where they are.

Released on October 5, 1966, it was issued as Yukio Hashi’s 84th single.

It won the 8th Japan Record Award, marking Hashi’s second time receiving the grand prize.

Recommended for those who have experienced heartbreak or who want to reflect on memories with someone dear.

Listening with older adults may also inspire warm reminiscence of days gone by.