[For Seniors] Winter songs you'll want to hum along to. A collection of classic tunes recommended for BGM and recreational activities

the first strong spring windkyandīzu

Haru Ichiban / Candies (with lyrics)

This is a memorable song with a bright melody that hints at the approach of warmer days as the harsh winter cold gradually eases.

It’s widely loved as one of Candies’ signature tunes, and just listening to it lifts your spirits.

Originally included on the 1975 album “Toshishita no Otokonoko,” the track was later refined in its production following a strong response and released as a single in March 1976.

Its lyrics, perfect for the season of melting snow, and its light, lively rhythm make it ideal for exercise or recreational activities.

If everyone claps along and hums together, the whole venue is sure to be enveloped in a warm atmosphere, like spring sunshine.

Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – Come, Spring

Singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya, who has been active in Japan’s music scene for many years, has a song that captures delicate, fleeting spring scenery and the feelings she brings to it: “Haru yo, Koi” (“Come, Spring”).

Released in 1994 as the theme song for an NHK morning drama series, this classic is also included on the album THE DANCING SUN.

Those who watched the drama at the time surely remember being encouraged each morning by its gentle melody.

With lyrics so beautifully written in Japanese that they appear in language textbooks, it’s perfect for everyone to sing along together.

Shall we share the hope of waiting for warm spring after a harsh winter through this song, and spend some peaceful time together?

Winter night

Ministry of Education Song: Winter Night

“Winter Night” is a Ministry of Education school song with extraordinarily beautiful lyrics.

It’s a particularly intriguing piece because, even in postwar music research, the identities of its lyricist and composer remain unknown, and it’s said to have been sung since at least the Meiji era.

The lyrics have also been changed several times for various reasons, so the verses people know can differ depending on their generation, which is another interesting aspect.

In gatherings of people from different age groups, it might be fun to compare which version of the lyrics each person remembers.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Yuuki

Report a problem

Like the flow of a riverMisora Hibari

Like the flow of a river

A signature song by Hibari Misora that likens life to the flow of a river and celebrates the importance of living by gently going with the current.

It conveys hope that even on rain-soaked roads, a sunny day will eventually come, and it depicts a heart that accepts the changing seasons, resonating quietly with listeners.

The anecdote that lyricist Yasushi Akimoto wrote it while gazing at the East River in New York is also memorable.

Released as a single in January 1989, it became Hibari Misora’s final work.

It won the Gold Prize at that year’s Japan Record Awards and sold over two million copies.

Its flowing, beautiful melody and profound lyrics are likely to touch the hearts of older listeners who have experienced many stages of life.

In February, as winter gives way to spring, why not hum along?

Waltz of StarlightSen Masao

Waltz of Starlight - Masao Sen

A gem of a waltz where the sorrow of parting and deep affection intertwine.

The lyrics were written by Sonoeda Shiratori and the music composed by Minoru Endo.

Released as Masao Sen’s single in 1966, it became a major hit in 1968, selling a total of 2.5 million copies.

The protagonist’s feelings—choosing a painful breakup while wishing happiness for a loved one—are deeply moving.

This classic has been covered across Asia, including Taiwan and Hong Kong, and is beloved across borders.

It’s a song I’d recommend for those winter nights when you gaze at the stars and reminisce about young love.

It also lends itself well to an emotionally rich performance at karaoke.

Tsugaru Strait – Winter SceneIshikawa Sayuri

Sayuri Ishikawa “Tsugaru Strait: Winter Scenery” LIVE Ver. (From the 40th Anniversary Sayuri Ishikawa Concert ‘As I Feel’ – Uta-Shibai ‘Ichiyō’s Love’)

Since her debut in 1973, Sayuri Ishikawa has captivated many people.

When it comes to her signature songs, Tsugaru Strait—Winter Scene comes to mind.

Because the song has a slow tempo, it’s easy to sing even for those who don’t usually go to karaoke.

It’s also comfortable to sing an octave lower, so even people who struggle with high notes can give it a try.

Be sure to deliver it gently and expressively.

Also, in recreational settings, there are times when not only older adults but also their grandchildren and families sing together.

In those situations, this song is a great recommendation because everyone knows the lyrics.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem

From the northern innMiyako Harumi

Harumi Miyako / From the Northern Inn [Live Footage]

There are probably many people who want to show off their singing voice at a karaoke competition.

If you’re looking for a winter song that lets you showcase your vocal skills, we recommend Kita no Yado Kara (From an Inn in the North).

It’s performed by Harumi Miyako, who actually won the Japan Record Award for this song.

The first half of the piece calls for delicate techniques such as vibrato, while the chorus demands powerful, full-throated singing.

If you can pull it off, you’re sure to wow your listeners.

Incidentally, the song was used in a commercial in 2021, gaining new fans among younger generations.

That makes it a perfect choice to perform for a younger audience as well.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem