[For Seniors] February Songs You’ll Want to Hum: Enjoy Winter with Nostalgic Classics

Anko Camellia is the flower of loveMiyako Harumi

Anko Camellia is the flower of love

Harumi Miyako’s first million-seller was “Anko Tsubaki wa Koi no Hana.” “Anko” is said to be a word in the Izu Ōshima dialect that refers to an older or socially superior woman.

The song portrays the aching heart of a woman who grows lonelier over the distance separating her from the loved one who has gone to the big city.

Among older adults, some may have left their rural hometowns when they found employment, experiencing sorrowful farewells with local friends and family.

Listening to this nostalgic song may prompt memories of the past and encourage them to share episodes you wouldn’t normally hear in everyday conversation.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yuri

Report a problem

Northern SpringSen Masao

Northern Spring

Sung in a variety of languages including Chinese and Thai, this is one of Masao Sen’s signature songs beloved by many people, especially across Asia.

“Hokuguni no Haru” (Spring in the Northern Country) is a song about the feelings one has for their hometown from the vantage point of the city.

A hometown where the seasons are felt more closely than in the city; a hometown where family and a once-loved person live; a hometown where a father—though not very talkative—is surely worrying about you deep down, awaits.

Everyone’s feelings for their hometown are different.

Hearing this song will likely bring back fond memories and make you wonder, “I wonder what the place where I was born is like now.”

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yuri

Report a problem

Snow BlossomNakajima Mika

Mika Nakashima 'Yuki no Hana' Music Video

Mika Nakashima’s “Yuki no Hana” is a heartwarming ballad that beautifully portrays winter scenery.

The lyrics capture moments like walking with a lover in the first snowfall, along with deep affection and a hint of impending farewell—feelings that may resonate with older listeners’ memories.

Since its 2003 release, it has continued to be cherished by many.

It was also used as a movie theme song and has been covered by various artists.

Listening to Nakashima’s gentle yet powerful voice might be a lovely way to reflect on memories with someone dear.

As the cold of winter lingers, why not spend some happy time together in a warm room, singing or listening to the song?

North TavernHosokawa Takashi

North Tavern / Takashi Hosokawa (with lyrics)

Takashi Hosokawa’s signature song, “Kita Sakaba” (Northern Tavern), is well known to everyone.

Its up-tempo beat is invigorating, isn’t it? Set along a tavern-lined street steeped in the atmosphere of Japan’s northern regions, the song poignantly portrays people’s bittersweet romances.

Released in March 1982, it became a huge hit after being performed on the TV program “Kin-chan no Doko Made Yaru no?” With its light, catchy kayōkyoku style, it won the hearts of listeners across generations.

It’s also a perfect conversation starter for reminiscing with older adults.

Why not hum along together and look back on those nostalgic times?

Winter SongKiroro

Kiroro "Winter Song" Official Music Video

Kiroro’s “Fuyu no Uta” (“Winter Song”) is beloved as a heartwarming winter tune.

Set to a gentle melody, it paints scenes of falling snow and expresses feelings for someone special.

Released in November 1998, the song is likely familiar to many older listeners as well.

It’s also perfect for winter recreation activities.

With its soft melody resonating through quiet nights and its warm lyrics, it offers a soothing, comfortable time.

Enjoy the moving “Winter Song” while thinking of family far away—or together with them.

Mother’s Songdōyō

Mother’s Song | With Lyrics | One Hundred Selected Japanese Songs | Mother stayed up late working at night

“Mother’s Song” is a piece written and composed by Satoshi Kubota in 1956.

Its lyrics, warmly depicting a mother’s love and family bonds, truly resonate.

The image of a mother knitting gloves amid the harsh realities of rural life expresses her deep affection for her family.

The song has been performed by many artists, including Peggy Hayama and Dark Ducks, and was also broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta.” In 2007, it was selected as one of the “100 Best Japanese Songs.” It’s a perfect song for older adults to sing while reminiscing about their own mothers.

snow (yuki)

“Yuki (Snow)”—a winter children’s song

It’s a winter song that conjures up the quiet image of snow steadily piling up.

Published in the 1911 “Elementary School Songbook,” it was also selected for the 2007 “100 Best Japanese Songs.” Just imagining pets dashing around on the snow or staying cozy and warm indoors is enough to warm your heart, isn’t it? In fact, many people mix up the lyrics of the first and second verses, or remember the word endings a bit incorrectly.

Take a moment to check whether the lyrics you remember are correct!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yuri

Report a problem