[For Seniors] Autumn Songs That Touch the Heart: From Nostalgic Children’s Songs and School Songs to Showa-Era Kayōkyoku

rabbitwarabeuta

♪Rabbit, Rabbit – Usagi Usagi | ♪Rabbit, rabbit, what do you see as you hop? [Japanese song/children’s song]

“Usagi” is also used as a practice piece for traditional Japanese instruments such as the shamisen and koto, and is cherished as a children’s song.

The lyrics depict rabbits hopping as they gaze at the moon, evoking a cute image.

Because it’s made up of simple and short phrases, older adults can enjoy singing it with confidence.

Try presenting a rich, expressive vocal performance over tones that evoke a sense of wa (Japanese tradition).

It’s also recommended to listen while arranging Tsukimi dango and gazing at the autumn night sky during the harvest moon.

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Bright Red Autumnsakushi: satsuma tadashi / sakkyoku: kobayashi hideo

Bright Red Autumn 🍁 (♪ It's so red~) by Himawari 🌻 With Lyrics | Children's Song |

Among the many children’s songs themed around autumn, Makka na Aki stands out with its bright, cheerful melody.

The lyrics were written by Tada Satsuma, who was also active as a translator of foreign literature.

The song depicts children’s pure delight as they become captivated by natural landscapes dyed in autumn hues.

Plants that turn color in the fall, such as karasuri (ivy gourd) and tsuta (ivy), appear in the lyrics, so it’s a lovely idea to feel the season while taking a stroll.

How about singing this nursery rhyme—whose sense of autumn gently spreads—with friends at a community center or with old friends? Since the song repeats the same phrases, even those who don’t usually sing can try it with ease.

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Sunset HillIshihara Yūjirō & Asaoka Ruriko

The Hill of the Setting Sun — Yujiro Ishihara & Ruriko Asaoka

This is a song that poignantly sings of bittersweet love, set against a hill bathed in the glow of the setting sun.

The harmony between Yūjirō Ishihara and Ruriko Asaoka really resonates with the heart.

Released in 1963, this piece was also used as the theme song for a film of the same name that premiered the following year.

It’s perfect for listening by the window on an autumn evening—you might find nostalgic memories returning.

Its melody is easy for older listeners to enjoy, and humming along together can be delightful.

Through this work, you may feel the changing of the seasons and the transience of life.