Classic Japanese songs perfect for a relaxing day off

Daydream BelieverTakahata Mitsuki

Mitsuki Takahata’s full-length PV for “Napping Princess” released — covering the classic “Daydream Believer”

This is the song that Mitsuki Takahata sings in the animated film “Napping Princess.” I was truly amazed by how good her singing is.

Her gentle, clear voice is soothing.

I thought it was a nice song you can casually listen to while relaxing.

I hope more people get to know this song.

At that timeyuzu

Yuzu “At That Time” Music Video

Yuzu’s universal song “Sonotoki ni” is one to savor amid everyday life.

Released as a digital single in May 2020, it was reportedly created from messages gathered from fans.

While the lyrics, inspired by the circumstances of that time, prompt some reflection on daily life, the song also carries a vibe that brightens a slow, leisurely day off.

Seeing the two members of Yuzu performing is uplifting, too! If you set this song as your alarm and imagine what you’ll do tomorrow, you’re sure to have a delightful day.

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The everyday miracle.Hirai Dai

Dai Hirai / The Miracle of “As Usual.” (Lyric Video)

This song by Dai Hirai features surf music infused with the tones of ukulele and acoustic guitar.

Its gentle atmosphere, which conjures up a refreshing breeze by the seaside, feels perfect for a weekend morning.

It carries a warm message that seems to remind us how precious our everyday, ordinary moments truly are.

You can feel the happiness of realizing just how important it is to spend each day in peace.

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loveHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Koi (Official Video)

A 2016 smash hit that made Gen Hoshino a household name.

With the “Koi Dance” becoming a social phenomenon, this is the kind of song that makes many people start moving the moment it comes on.

Its get-up-and-dance rhythm and sense of excitement make it perfect for a day off! The balance between the funky instrumental break and the poppy melody is seriously cool, too.

The intro is distinctive, and honestly, any part you clip would work as an alarm tune.

If you want to enjoy your day off freely, make it with “Koi”!

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If I’m wrapped in kindnessMatsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – If Wrapped in Kindness (THE LAST WEDNESDAY TOUR 2006 ~HERE COMES THE WAVE~)

A perfect song for a relaxed, cozy wake-up on a holiday morning is “Yasashisa ni Tsutsumareta Nara” (Wrapped in Gentleness).

Released in 1974 by singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya, who has been active since the 1970s, it has been featured in numerous commercials.

Many people may know it as the ending theme of the film Kiki’s Delivery Service.

Its beautiful melody line, unfolding with a light rhythm, is truly moving.

The lyrics evoke a bright, clear morning, making it ideal as a holiday morning song.

It’s a heartwarming track that makes you think, “Something good might happen today.”

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Can I call it magic?Hirai Ken

Ken Hirai “May I Call It Magic?” MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

Released in 2016 as Ken Hirai’s 40th single.

It’s a simple ballad featuring only acoustic guitar and vocals, and it was used as the TV commercial song for Panasonic’s LUMIX digital camera, co-starring Haruka Ayase.

The song’s gentle high notes and lyrics by Ken Hirai are soothing.

Letter to TomorrowTeshima Aoi

[Official] Aoi Teshima – Letter to Tomorrow (Theme Song for the Monday 9 PM Drama ‘Someday I Will Surely Cry When I Remember This Love’)

Teshima’s singing voice is beautiful, and the lyrics sink in smoothly.

It’s truly a laid-back song that lets each word paint a scene, making it easy to get emotionally involved and relate to it.

It was also used as a TV drama’s theme song, and I remember thinking it fit perfectly at the time.