Just listening to it purifies the heart... A healing song born in the Showa era.
Masterpieces born in the Showa era all carry a certain wistfulness that reflects the spirit of their time, don’t they?
That nostalgic atmosphere alone can stir the heart just by listening.
This time, we’ve put together a list of especially soothing songs from among those Showa-era classics.
From songs that celebrate great love to ones steeped in melancholy, we selected them with a focus on melody and ensemble, so we hope you’ll find tracks that match your mood.
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- Songs that heal a tired heart. A collection of timeless tracks that bring peace to the soul.
- Healing songs from the Heisei era that soothe daily fatigue and stress
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
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- A soothing song. A heart-calming tune you’ll want to listen to when you’re tired or feeling down.
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Just listening purifies the heart... Healing songs born in the Showa era (1–10)
Sugarcane fieldchiaki naomi
Known as an anti-war song, this piece begins with lyrics that evoke the sound of wind blowing through sugarcane fields.
From the perspective of a girl who lost her father in the Battle of Okinawa, it conveys the tragedy of war and the wish for peace quietly, yet powerfully.
Naomi Chiaki’s emotionally rich singing further enhances the song’s profound message.
When it was featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” starting in April 1975, a short version was broadcast that included only three of the eleven stanzas.
Gently appealing to the horror of war and the preciousness of peace, this work continues to resonate with many people to this day, and has even been used as teaching material in school music classes.
From the North Country: From the Distant Landsadamasashi
This piece is distinguished by a gentle, lyrical melody that evokes Hokkaido’s vast natural landscapes.
According to a well-known anecdote, Masashi Sada completed the basic structure in just about ten minutes, and its unique lyrics—made up solely of the two sounds “a” and “n”—leave a striking impression.
Released in September 1982 as a double A-side single, it became widely beloved as the theme song for a TV drama that began airing in 1981.
As a song emblematic of Hokkaido, it is frequently used on variety shows and at regional product fairs.
It’s a soothing track recommended for anyone seeking a cleansing, restorative escape from the bustle of everyday life.
Shadows of Youthchūrippu
Released in June 1974, this Tulip song was an ambitious work that marked a shift from an idol-oriented approach to a focus on musicality.
After lineup changes, Kazuo Zaitsu took on lead vocals.
The lyrics, portraying a man resolved to marry, evoke the end of youth and a step into adulthood.
Although it initially struggled in sales, it later became a key track symbolizing Tulip’s evolving sound.
The song has been widely used in TV dramas and commercials, exerting broad influence.
It’s a recommended listen for those embarking on a new stage in life or feeling nostalgic about their youth.
Just listening purifies the heart... Healing songs born in the Showa era (11–20)
Scat at DawnYuki Saori
A signature song by Saori Yuki featuring striking scat singing.
Released in 1969, it topped the Oricon weekly singles chart for eight consecutive weeks and became a million seller.
The track was originally created as the opening theme for TBS Radio’s late-night program “Ballad of the Night,” and due to numerous listener inquiries, it was released as a single.
It also marked her first appearance on that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, cementing Saori Yuki’s status as a singer.
Its delicate, emotive melody evokes the moments before dawn, making it perfect for times when you want to calm your mind or for waking up in the morning.
So sad I can’t bear itZa Fōku Kurusedāzu
A masterwork by The Folk Crusaders whose heartrending yet beautiful melody and lyrics about profound sorrow sink deep into the heart.
Released in March 1968 as their second single, it is said to center on themes of war and a sense of loss.
Against natural scenes like white clouds and the deep green of forests, it delicately portrays the sadness and helplessness humans carry.
Covered by many artists and featured in the 2016 animated film In This Corner of the World, the song has continued to be loved across generations.
It’s recommended for times when you want to empathize with the feeling of moving forward despite carrying deep sadness.
era; age; time; periodYakushimaru Hiroko
This song, performed by Hiroko Yakushimaru, renowned in the entertainment world for her exceptional vocal prowess, is a cover of a classic written and composed by Miyuki Nakajima.
The lyrics, which depict life’s hardships, partings, and reunions, resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in 1988, the track is widely known as one of Yakushimaru’s signature songs.
Her delicate yet powerful vocals further enhance the song’s appeal.
It’s a recommended piece when you want to reflect on life while savoring a touch of Showa-era nostalgia.
Please give me wingsakai tori
A signature song by Akaitori that colored the music scene of the Showa era.
Released in February 1971, it features beautiful harmonies and evokes a deep sense of Japanese tradition.
The lyrics express a yearning for freedom through the image of “white wings,” reflecting the social climate of the time while conveying a universal message.
It was used at the opening ceremonies of the 1998 Nagano Olympics and the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, and continues to be loved across generations.
Its touching lyrics and gentle melody are recommended for times when you’re troubled or want to look ahead.
A heartwarming number that offers comfort to anyone seeking healing.