[For Seniors] Let’s Have Fun Together! Introducing Uplifting, Energizing Songs

Blue MountainsFujiyama Ichirō, Nara Mitsue

Blue Mountains

The song that celebrates the beautiful, powerful presence of the Rokko mountain range is “Aoi Sanmyaku” (Blue Mountains).

Its richly expressive lyrics are so evocative that, as you listen, you can imagine the feelings of someone gazing at the mountains—even the scents in the air.

Originally written as the theme song for a film of the same name, it is now cherished as a classic of Japanese popular music.

In fact, leading Japanese artists such as Hibari Misora, Sayuri Ishikawa, and Keisuke Kuwata have all covered the song.

If you try it at karaoke, it might be helpful to take cues from their arrangements.

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Hanagasa Ondomin’yō

Hanagasa Ondo 🌼 shamisen shamishami 🌼 Oirase Town seniors’ gathering 🌼 folk song/shamisen/Oirase

It is beloved as a traditional folk song that represents Yamagata Prefecture.

At the Yamagata Hanagasa Festival held in Yamagata City in August, many people perform dances to the rhythmic sounds of taiko drums and flutes.

Its charm lies in the lively, vibrant music and the friendly lyrics that sing of Yamagata’s nature and scenery.

The song has been covered by folk and enka singers, used in TV programs and films, and is loved across generations.

This piece is recommended for recreational activities at facilities because it conveys the region’s culture and traditions.

Singing and dancing together can refresh both body and mind and help everyone enjoy a pleasant time.

Green breeze

Japanese children's song: Midori no Soyokaze (The Green Breeze)

If you’re looking for a refreshing song, I’d like to recommend “Midori no Soyokaze” (“Green Breeze”).

The lyrics were written by Katsura Shimizu, who created many children’s songs.

Since it was first broadcast on the radio in 1948, it has been loved by many people and is also familiar as a commercial jingle.

The lyrics depict a gentle spring breeze, and together with the tender melody, they soothe and refresh listeners.

If you’re planning to try a group chorus with friends, be sure to choose this song.

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I’m going to Tokyo.Yoshi Ikuzo

I'm going to Tokyo.

Slow-tempo songs are nice, but some people feel more energized by fast-tempo tracks.

With that in mind, I’d like to introduce “Ora Tokyo sa Iguda.” This song was released in 1984 by Ikuzo Yoshi.

By incorporating rap elements—which were novel at the time—it became a major sensation.

Even today, covers of the song and videos using it as background music often go viral.

That’s why I think it’s perfect for times when you want people from different generations, like your grandchildren, to enjoy it as well.

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Until we meet againOzaki Kiyohiko

Mata Au Himade

Kiyohiko Ozaki’s “Mata Au Hi Made” is a classic released in 1971.

Its lyrics, depicting the bittersweet feelings of two people who chose to part ways, resonate with many.

The phrase “Mata au hi made, aeru toki made” (“Until the day we meet again, until the time we can meet”) is especially memorable and brings back nostalgic memories.

The song was also chosen as the entrance march for high school baseball and as an image song for volleyball.

Many people sing it at karaoke, and it’s loved across generations.

Listening to nostalgic songs brings back old memories and is so enjoyable, isn’t it? If everyone sings together, you’re sure to have a wonderful time.

A hill with a view of the harborHirano Aiko

A Hill with a View of the Harbor / Aiko Hirano (original singer) stage

“Minato ga Mieru Oka” (The Hill Where You Can See the Harbor) is a song released by Aiko Hirano in 1947.

Its lyrics delicately portray a wistful love and the scenery of a port town, which is very appealing.

Images like faded cherry blossoms, a ship’s whistle, and the bluish lights on a foggy night are expressed poetically.

The heartwarming melody that brings back fond memories is likely easy to enjoy for older listeners as well.

It could be nice for everyone to hum along during recreation time.

Immersing yourselves in the world of the lyrics and sharing stories from your younger days would be wonderful, too.

Apple SongNamiki Michiko

Apple Song - Michiko Namiki - Showa-era song

“Ringo no Uta” (The Apple Song) is a piece performed by Michiko Namiki, released in 1945.

Amid the aftermath of defeat, her bright and refreshing voice encouraged people, and the song became the biggest postwar hit.

In 2007, it was also selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Songs.

Many older adults may feel they drew strength from this song.

Let’s enjoy it as a hand-play song while reminiscing about those days.

You can mimic apples with your hands or move your body in time with the lyrics.

Singing joyfully and moving your body will help refresh both mind and body.