Classic Japanese songs perfect for a relaxing day off

Crescent ○○Hirahara Ayaka

Mikazuki Marumaru

This is a song written and composed by Ryota Fujimaki that brims with the warm charm of Ayaka Hirahara.

Its glittering, sun-dappled spring sound is layered with her expansive, embracing vocals, gently enfolding the listener’s heart.

You can almost see the scene of looking up at a crescent moon swaying in the sky after the rain, reminiscing about cherished days with someone dear.

Junichi Soga’s acoustic arrangement and the innocent chorus of children further highlight the sense of hope for the future and comfort.

This piece is included on the album “Love 2,” released in April 2017.

It’s a song that will surely warm your heart when you listen to it during peaceful moments with someone special or when taking a new step forward.

bouquetback number

back number – Bouquet (Short ver.)

The three-piece rock band back number is known for rock tunes that aren’t too intense, attracting fans across a wide range of ages.

Their song “Hanataba” features a slightly relaxed melody and gentle vocals, expressing straightforward feelings for a girlfriend.

It’s recommended for a weekend morning when you want to feel happy.

Full-Power BoySukima Suichi

Sukima Switch - Zenryoku Shonen (with lyrics)

With its up-tempo melody and lyrics brimming with hope yet never overbearing, it gently cheers on those of us who stumble over real-world obstacles.

The arrangement of “Zenkoku Shonen” by Tamio Okuda gives it a rock flavor, making it even more energetic.

LOTUSŌhashi Torio

Ohashi Trio / LOTUS (Music Video)

This is a work by ohashiTrio, whose fantastical synthesizer tones lead listeners into another dimension.

After a quiet, gentle introduction, tight drums and a groovy band sound intertwine, pulling you headlong into the depths of the city night.

Lyricist micca weaves decadent, poetic images—worn back alleys and skinny cats—that feel like watching a single film.

Over the course of more than five minutes, jazz, rock, and soul blend naturally, gripping the listener’s heart and never letting go.

This track is the lead song from the 14th album, “This is music too,” released in February 2020.

On a night when you want to forget the everyday and immerse yourself fully in the world of music, this is one to press play on.

Et ceteraŌhashi Torio

Et cetera

A medium-tempo song by Ohashi Trio where thrilling strings intersect with intricately woven instrumental melodies.

It was pre-released in October 2024 and later included on his 16th album, “GOLD HOUR.” The lyrics by Kazunori Ichikawa of Youmou to Ohana capture universal emotions and subtle shifts of the heart found amid everyday change.

Elegant piano and gentle guitar tones perfectly complement the song’s delicate worldview.

It’s the kind of track that will gently wrap you in its calm melodies when you want to step away from daily clamor and settle your mind—an ideal piece for quiet moments of self-reflection.

bow knotAimer

Aimer “Chouchou Musubi” (produced and written by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS)

It’s written Aimer and pronounced ‘E-meh.’ This song was provided by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS, and the slightly coddling sentence endings characteristic of his lyrics go well with Aimer’s husky voice.

Aimer injured her vocal cords, and I’ve heard that if the injury were to heal completely, she wouldn’t be able to produce her current voice, so she intentionally maintains her present condition.

It’s a song I want to listen to while taking a slow, solitary walk.

Week EndHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Week End (Preview video listening with Gen Hoshino)

A pop tune by Gen Hoshino that captures the sense of freedom and release of the weekend.

With its shimmering horn section and groove-laden sound, it naturally draws listeners onto the dance floor.

Included on the album “YELLOW DANCER,” released in December 2015, it was also used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Mezamashi Doyobi starting in October of the same year.

While depicting emotions that shift with the changing seasons, it gently reminds us of the importance of stepping out of the everyday to express our true selves.

It’s a perfect track to brighten your mood during a long-weekend drive or a day out.