[Celebration] A compilation of Japanese songs that elderly people will enjoy
We’ve gathered Japanese songs that are perfect for events at senior living facilities and day service centers.
Music can help you relax and bring back old memories, offering positive effects for both mind and body.
If you’re using it as background music, choosing songs to match each scene can change the atmosphere, which is highly recommended.
When holding a sing-along, preparing lyric sheets can help everyone enjoy the songs, even if some aren’t familiar to the seniors.
Let’s make use of a variety of songs to create a fun and cheerful atmosphere!
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[Celebration] A collection of Japanese songs that older adults will enjoy (31–40)
It’s okayHikawa Kiyoshi
Life brings various hardships and joys, and Kiyoshi Hikawa delivers a warm, gentle song that embraces them all.
Released in 2019, this work expresses the sadness and feelings of love that everyone experiences through his beautiful vocals.
Like the moon setting and the sun rising, its hopeful message—that tomorrow will surely come—resonates in the heart.
Also included on the album “Shin Enka Meikyoku Collection 9,” this piece is perfect for singing along at recreational gatherings.
Its friendly, singable melody and uplifting lyrics are part of its charm.
Hanjirō of the Hakone Eight RiHikawa Kiyoshi
This work fully conveys the appeal of a traditional traveling-swordsman enka.
Its lyrics delicately depict the loneliness, melancholy, and inner conflict of a drifter, and when combined with Kiyoshi Hikawa’s emotionally rich vocals, you can’t help but be drawn in.
The lone-wolf protagonist, sword in hand, is moved by the warmth of the people he meets in post towns and by his feelings for his mother—truly touching.
Released in February 2000, it became the first debut song in history to win the Grand Prize at the 33rd Japan Lyricist Awards.
It was also used in Taisho Pharmaceutical’s Tiovita Drink commercial.
This piece is recommended for older listeners who love enka.
It’s even more enjoyable when everyone claps along while singing.
A Good Day to Set Out on a JourneyYamaguchi Momoe
The melody spun by Momoe Yamaguchi as a song for a journey filled with nostalgic memories remains a timeless classic that still touches the heart.
Her gentle yet faintly wistful voice carries the courage and resolve to take a new step in life.
With lyrics overflowing with farewells to one’s hometown and family, and with hope and expectation for the future, it’s a song anyone can relate to.
Released in November 1978, this work was created as a campaign song for the then Japanese National Railways and became a massive hit, selling over one million copies.
It is often sung at life’s milestones, such as graduation and weddings, and continues to be loved across generations.
It’s a perfect song to sing together as we look back on our memories in the warm spring air.
The Longed-For Hawaii RouteHaruo Oka
Haruo Oka’s “Akogare no Hawaii Koro (Dream Route to Hawaii)” is a classic that sings of postwar hope.
The lyrics, depicting a ship departing from the harbor, evoke a nostalgic feeling.
Details like the “gong’s sound” and “farewell streamers” vividly bring the era to life.
Since its 1948 hit, it has continued to be loved by many.
I’ve heard it was even used as a movie theme song.
How about humming it together with older adults? It might spark lively reminiscences, and you could enjoy a relaxed, pleasant time together.
Otomi-sanKasuga Hachirō
Hachiro Kasuga’s “Otomi-san” is a captivating song that incorporates elements of the kabuki world into popular music.
Its emotionally rich lyrics and nostalgic melody leave a strong impression.
Released in 1954, the song has continued to be covered and cherished by various artists over the years.
Covers by Mina Aoe and Harumi Miyako each draw out new charm through their distinct arrangements.
It’s delightful to listen to with older adults, and preparing lyric sheets to sing along would be fun as well.
You can share feelings of nostalgia and spend a peaceful time together.