Classic Japanese songs perfect for a relaxing day off

Goodbye, my beloved.Hana＊Hana

Hana*Hana “Goodbye, My Beloved”

Hana*Hana is a female duo group.

This song was written by lead vocalist Izumi Kojima for her grandfather, who passed away when she was 16, and it has been covered by artists like Spitz.

With its wistful intro, poignant lyrics, and beautiful harmonies throughout, it’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you feel like quietly reflecting.

Eine KleineYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Eine Kleine

Kenshi Yonezu has been a hot topic recently.

He originally uploaded Vocaloid songs on Nico Nico Douga under the name “Hachi,” producing several hits.

In 2012, he released an album featuring his own vocals.

Eine Kleine, released in 2014, portrays a bittersweet love through uniquely expressive lyrics.

Sundayback number

back number – Sunday (full)

This song by back number reminds us that spending a calm, ordinary day off with a loved one is the greatest treasure of all.

It sings that true happiness in life comes not from social success or status, but from having someone important by your side.

This heartwarming piece was released in May 2012 as their fifth single and became widely known as the theme song for the drama “Soup Curry.” Happiness is often hidden in everyday routines we take for granted.

Why not listen to this song and rediscover the warmth of the person right next to you?

SUNHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – SUN (Official Video)

Regarding this song, Gen Hoshino has said, “I wanted it to be something that gets you excited for no particular reason, that’s fun for no reason, that makes you feel a thrill when you listen to it, that makes your hips move—something like that.” Just as he says, this song has a strangely thrilling feel to it, so let it color your fun weekend.

GarnetOku Hanako

Garnet – Hanako Oku (Full) Theme song of the film “The Girl Who Leapt Through Time” cover

It’s a song that served as the theme for “The Girl Who Leapt Through Time,” directed by the filmmaker behind “Your Name.” The gemstone meaning of garnet is “friendship, amity,” which perfectly suits this slightly bittersweet yet beautiful melody.

With Oku Hanako’s clear, soaring vocals and lyrics that bring back a sweet-and-sour page of youth, it’s a piece that lets you savor a quiet day off while looking back on your adolescence.

PicnicSato Hiroshi

Hiroshi Sato Picnic

This is a track by city pop maestro Hiroshi Sato, featuring soothing, floating synths and steel pan-like tones.

Urban and sophisticated yet somehow nostalgic, its melody feels like a calm moment spent in early-summer dappled sunlight.

The song was released in June 1988 as the B-side of the single “Seat For Two,” and it’s also included on the 1988 album “AQUA.” Doesn’t it express, with gentle sound, the tenderness of those ordinary moments spent with someone special?

PicnicMayo Okamoto

Picnic

A picnic on a sun-drenched lawn with the one you love.

But your sweetheart beside you is fast asleep…

It’s the kind of heartwarming scene that brings a smile to your face—captured in a song by Mayo Okamoto.

This track is included on the classic million-selling album “Hello,” released in April 1998.

With whimsical, story-like touches—like a lizard suddenly appearing or a lively children’s chorus that seems to say “Wake up!”—the song’s cuteness is even more charming.

The protagonist’s laid-back mood blends with the bustling surroundings to create a blissful world that makes the listener feel happy too.

It’s perfect not only for a leisurely day off with your partner, but also for a lively picnic with friends—sure to bring a happy time.