[For Seniors] Recommended Songs for New Year’s Parties: Nursery Rhymes, Children’s Songs, and Popular Songs to Liven Up Even on Cold Days

Kimigayokokka

Kimigayo (Japan’s national anthem / children’s song)

Kimigayo is Japan’s national anthem, beloved as a symbol of the country.

Its stately, serene melody—shaped by the influence of gagaku (ancient court music)—gives it a distinctive presence among the world’s anthems.

It was composed by Hayashi Hiromori of the Imperial Household Ministry’s Gagaku Department, with arrangement by the German music teacher Franz Eckert.

Many people have likely sung Kimigayo, such as in music classes.

It’s a perfect choice to sing at a New Year’s gathering with seniors.

By discussing the meaning of the lyrics and singing together with hand claps, it also provides an opportunity to engage with Japanese culture and history.

Why not enjoy it together as you celebrate the start of the new year?

Love RadiantMisora Hibari

[With Large Lyrics] Ai Sansan [Rec]

The songs of Hibari Misora, a leading figure of the Showa-era pop scene, truly resonate deeply with older generations.

This particular song is a gem that passionately sings of the joys and sorrows of life, and the importance of love.

It was released in May 1986 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Hibari’s debut.

Although its initial sales were sluggish, over time it became a beloved piece for many people.

The lyrics, which evoke life’s mysteries and tenderness, align with the rich experiences of older listeners.

Enjoy singing it at your New Year’s gathering and spend a heartwarming time together!

Ozasiki SongWada Hiroshi to Mahina Sutāzu, Matsuo Kazuko

Ozasiki Song

With the lively vibe of a party song, “Ozashiki Kouta” by Hiroshi Wada & Mahina Stars and Kazuko Matsuo is perfect for livening up a New Year’s gathering.

Released in 1964, it features the easy-to-clap “dodON-pa” rhythm, making it fun and engaging for both singers and listeners.

The lyrics depict a romance between a woman working in a Kyoto teahouse and a man who visits as a guest.

As you reminisce about nights out in bustling entertainment districts of the past, sing it with joy and bring that festive downtown energy into your New Year’s party!

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snow camelliaKobayashi Sachiko

Yukitsubaki Sachiko Kobayashi

Sachiko Kobayashi’s “Yuki Tsubaki” is a classic that conveys a strength unshaken by winter’s cold.

Inspired by the snow camellia, the flower of Niigata Prefecture, it portrays the dignity and resilience of a woman who supports her unreliable husband.

Released in 1987, it’s a memorable song that was performed three times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It encourages those who feel discouraged and brings warmth to listeners’ hearts.

If sung at a New Year’s party, it will surely resonate with older attendees.

Wrapped in Sachiko Kobayashi’s vocals, everyone can clap along and sing together, making for a delightful time.

Daikoku-samaMonbushō shōka

Daikoku-sama (Summer Songs at Home)

“Daikok sama” is a traditional folk song that’s perfect for the New Year.

Its rhythmic, auspicious feel is a distinctive feature.

The lyrics convey Daikoku-sama’s kindness and warmth, bringing a sense of calm.

With a melody steeped in the charm of old Japan, it can make time spent with music even richer.

Through this Shizuoka-born piece, older listeners, too, can enjoy a heartwarming moment.

Singing it at the start of the year is sure to lift the spirit, and if everyone sings together, it will be even more enjoyable.

Octopus SongMonbushō shōka

Octopus Song Sung by: NEUTRINO (with lyrics)

“The Kite Song” sings about a kite soaring freely through the sky.

New Year’s gatherings tend to revolve around eating and drinking, but it can be fun to step outside, relive your childhood, and fly a kite while singing.

The lyrics depict many scenes of kite flying: the desire to make your kite fly higher than any other, and the moment you pull the string tight when it looks like it might fall.

As a little feature for your New Year’s party, consider adding a song and some kite flying.

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Winter nightMonbushō shōka

Ministry of Education Song: Winter Night

The Ministry of Education school song “Winter Night,” which portrays Japan’s beautiful, nostalgic old-time scenery, has an unknown lyricist and composer, but it was published in 1912 in the Elementary School Songbook.

Later, in 1968, it was featured on NHK’s Minna no Uta.

The lyrics, which sing of winter scenes, depict customs of the time—such as gathering around the hearth and weaving rope.

Although the melody is gentle, the song is by no means somber or gloomy; it is a warm piece that portrays family togetherness.

For some older listeners, the lyrics may evoke memories of winter landscapes from days gone by.

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