Classic Japanese songs perfect for a relaxing day off

In Your Lifekururi

In Your Life

Although Quruli is a rock band, they have taken on works with a wide range of musical styles over the years.

The song they released in the summer of 2023 is crafted as a piece that features a full band sound.

The lyrics, which describe heading somewhere by car, suggest that “there might be a change of heart once we reach our destination.” If you’ve ever gone for a drive to clear your head when you had worries on your mind, you might find this relatable.

Coupled with Kishida’s gentle vocals and the band’s soft sound, it feels like your mood gradually calms as you listen.

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Hane Keisuke

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Goodbyeofukōsu

Sayonara – Off Course (Full)

Starting with a poignant intro and woven with a voice that carries a certain translucence, this sorrowful love song is one many can surely relate to.

The heartfelt lyrics and the pure emotions that seep through bring tears naturally.

It’s a masterpiece that makes you recall past loves.

cherry blossomKetsumeishi

Sakura – Ketsumeishi (Full)

The catchy, rhythmic chorus that you can’t help but hum over and over, paired with the rap-style A and B sections, is seriously addictive.

By singing about a heartbreaking breakup with a light touch, the song leaves a lingering resonance.

It’s the kind of track you want to listen to while taking a solitary walk in spring, gazing at the cherry blossoms.

contrailYūmin (Matsutōya Yumi)

Contrail (Vapour Trail) – Yumi Arai (Yumi Matsutoya)

Many people have been captivated by the poignant lyrics of this song, sung in Yuming’s uniquely soaring voice.

In 2013, it was used as the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s The Wind Rises.

It is said to be about a friend who passed away at a young age.

The bright melody—unexpected for a song centered on death—adds even greater depth to the piece.

Tears aren’t just for show.Nakamori Akina

Tears aren’t just for show — Akina Nakamori

A classic song covered by various artists.

Written and composed by Yosui Inoue, it portrays a woman through his unique worldview, made powerful and unwavering by Akina Nakamori’s vocal prowess.

On a day off when you want to start a big cleanup but can’t quite get going, listening to this will get your body moving.

foreignerKUBOTA Saki

Foreigner – Saki Kubota (Full)

It is also known as the commercial song for Sanyo Electric’s color TV featuring footage of the Silk Road.

Originally, it was intended to be a casual piece inspired by children playing along the beautiful tree-lined avenue in front of Kunitachi Station.

It’s a masterpiece in which Middle Eastern-style sounds are perfectly matched with a soft, refined yet cool vocal tone.

Riverside HotelInoue Yosui

Riverside Hotel – Yosui Inoue, 1992, SPARKLING BLUE (Nippon Budokan)

It’s the timeless masterpiece by the one and only Yosui Inoue.

His slightly husky, dry, wonderful voice pairs perfectly with the distinctive lyrics, making you want to listen again and again.

It’s the kind of song you want to hear on a Sunday evening as summer is coming to an end, while you watch the sky grow dark.