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

Traveler of the NorthIshihara Yūjirō

Ishihara Yujiro "Traveler of the North"

A gem of a winter song produced in the later years of Yujiro Ishihara’s life.

The melancholic lyrics, which overlay the poignant scenery of the northern country with the feelings of a traveler, are truly moving.

After its 1987 release, it topped the annual singles chart that year and has since been included on numerous compilation albums, earning its place as a classic winter tune.

It’s a song we especially recommend for the winter season, when loneliness and solitude are easier to feel—perfect for immersing yourself in thoughts of your hometown or someone dear to you.

lingering snowFunaki Kazuo

lingering snow

Known as one of Kazuo Funaki’s signature songs, this gem of a ballad portrays a fleeting, heartrending love set against a winter backdrop.

Within the harsh nature of the snow country, the delicate lyrics capture the feelings of two people who yearn for each other despite knowing they are not destined to be together.

Released in March 1968, it followed “Kuchinashi no Ballad,” which came out earlier that January.

Blending the beauty of snowy landscapes with the poignancy of love, this is a perfect song for a winter night—one that also invites a nostalgic listen to days gone by.

Brr, it’s so cold.

[Children’s Song] Oh, Cold, So Cold

“Oosamu Kosamu” is a children’s song composed with the theme of a cold winter day.

It depicts the scene of a young boy coming down from the mountain on a chilly winter day.

In some regions, there are arranged versions of the lyrics, so it can be fun to try singing the version that fits your local area.

The song is also quite short—just under a minute—so it’s recommended even for those who find memorization difficult.

Try singing it with a call-and-response style by adding an echoing chorus behind the main vocal, like a mountain echo.

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mutō

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You Are the One Who Rings That BellWada Akiko

Anokanewo Narasunoha Anata

Akiko Wada’s “Ano Kane o Narasu no wa Anata” has a powerful yet heartwarming melody that is perfect for winter recreation.

For seniors who love singing, this song offers a richly emotional moment.

The chorus, in particular, is a great opportunity to showcase vocal ability, so let’s sing it out together with energy.

When this song plays, the joy of singing and a sense of gratitude for past encounters well up inside.

During winter gatherings, Akiko Wada’s strong vocals will surely provide a heartwarming experience.

Ozasiki SongMatsuo Kazuko Mahina Sutāzu

Ozasiki Song

A gem of a classic in which a nostalgic, quintessentially Japanese melody blends beautifully with the sprightly Dodonpa rhythm.

Released in 1964 by Kazuko Matsuo with Hiroshi Wada and the Mahina Stars, it became a massive hit, selling over 1.5 million copies that same year.

Set in Kyoto’s Pontocho district, this highly narrative song portrays a fleeting romance between a geisha and a married man, expressing pure love and poignant resignation with exquisite sensitivity.

It was adapted into a film by Shochiku in February 1965 and won support across generations.

It’s a tune everyone can enjoy together—humming along, clapping in time with the rhythm.

Its catchy melody sticks in your head, making you want to sing along.

Kantarō the North Wind Kiddōyō

Kantaro the North Wind Kid / Minna no Uta

It’s a classic children’s song for the season when true winter approaches, depicting the feeling of realizing winter has arrived from the chill of the wind.

With the cold north wind, Kantarō comes to town, conveying the gradual intensification of the cold through distinctive sounds.

The overall gentle tempo also helps evoke the lonely winter landscape.

The light sound of the blowing wind accentuates a piercing chill that almost feels painful, heightening our awareness of the need to stay warm.

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Wonderful HolidayTakeuchi Mariya

Lovely Holiday / Mariya Takeuchi [Cover]

Mariya Takeuchi’s “Suteki na Holiday,” a hallmark of the winter season, is cherished by many older adults for its heartwarming melody.

Carried by Takeuchi’s gentle vocals, it evokes the arrival of the season and leaves listeners feeling warmly comforted.

The song is loved across generations, and many seniors sing it along with fond memories.

As a delightful choice for seniors’ karaoke sessions and a tune that brightens everyday moments, it will surely continue to be loved for years to come.