[For Seniors] Winter Classics to Sing in January: Heartwarming Moments with Nostalgic Children’s Songs and Kayōkyoku (Japanese Popular Songs)
January marks the beginning of a new year and the deepening chill of winter.
On such wintry days, why not enjoy songs perfect for the season in the warmth of your home? Nostalgic classics that sing of snowy landscapes and scenes from northern regions have a special charm that warms the heart.
This time, we’ll introduce a rich selection of enka and children’s songs that beautifully depict the arrival of winter and feelings for one’s hometown.
Singing together will bring back old memories and naturally fill the moment with smiles.
May you enjoy a wonderful time, with both heart and body gently warmed through song.
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[For Seniors] Classic Winter Songs to Sing in January: Heartwarming Moments with Nostalgic Children's Songs and Kayōkyoku (51–60)
Ozasiki SongWada Hiroshi to Mahina Sutāzu
Ozashiki Kouta by Hiroshi Wada and the Mahina Stars, a group formed around the renowned steel guitarist Hiroshi Wada.
The song has an intriguing style that blends a cheerful, almost tropical vibe with a distinctly Japanese atmosphere created by traditional instruments.
It’s structured with alternating male and female vocals, making it highly recommended for pairs to sing together at senior facilities such as day-care centers and nursing homes.
Try practicing as a duo and deliver a perfectly in-sync performance!
Traveler of the NorthIshihara Yūjirō
A song by Yujiro Ishihara that sings of the loneliness and bittersweet feelings of the northern country.
It begins with a single red light at the edge of a cape and portrays lost love through Hokkaido’s landscapes, such as the fog of Hakodate and the snow of Otaru.
Ishihara’s wistful voice, together with the poignant lyrics, deeply moves the listener.
Released in June 1987, this work became the last single he released during his lifetime.
For many older listeners, it’s a nostalgic piece that brings back memories.
It’s perfect to listen to on a cold winter’s day in a warm room.
Brr, it’s so cold.
“Oosamu Kosamu” is a Japanese children’s song about the cold of winter.
A notable feature is that the lyrics have various versions depending on the region.
It could be fun to talk together about which lyrics you remember and compare the differences.
Like “The Frog Song,” this piece uses a technique called a round, where the same melody is sung repeatedly in overlapping entries.
Why not try singing it as a round together at senior facilities such as nursing homes or day service centers?
The Song of the Twelve Zodiac Animals
With the arrival of the New Year, the zodiac also switches to the next animal.
This children’s song depicts the order of the twelve zodiac signs—familiar from ema plaques and New Year’s cards—and the story behind them.
It begins by reciting the names of the zodiac in order and also explains why these twelve animals were chosen.
Since the focus is on pronunciation, it’s recommended to look at the illustrations to learn which animal is which as you listen.
The lyrics apologizing to the cat at the end are memorable, so it might be fun to look into the finer points of the story as well.
[For Seniors] Classic Winter Songs to Sing in January: Heartwarming Moments with Nostalgic Children’s Songs and Kayōkyoku (61–70)
Theme of Shoten
Among older adults, there are surely many who look forward to watching “Shōten.” The “Shōten Theme Song,” which would likely delight such viewers, is also a great recommendation for January! While the distinctive melody is what first comes to mind, I was surprised to learn that it actually has lyrics.
Apparently, the sung version wasn’t well received and is no longer broadcast, but its message is along the lines of “There are all kinds of TV shows, but let’s laugh and have fun.” Once things settle down, it could be nice for everyone to sing it together and enjoy it.
Comedy and songs—essential for mental well-being—can be truly soothing.
Just like “Shōten,” a long-running show, we hope everyone stays healthy and keeps smiling for years to come.
Winter SongKiroro
Kiroro’s “Fuyu no Uta” (Winter Song) is a heartwarming winter song loved by many.
It features a gentle, emotionally resonant melody and lyrics that paint snowy scenes.
Released in November 1998 as their third single, it’s perfect for warming the heart even in the cold of winter.
It’s also a great choice to sing together with seniors.
Listening to the tender vocals echoing on a quiet night may bring to mind faraway family or allow you to bask in nostalgic memories.
It’s an ideal song to enjoy during winter recreational activities as well.
Please enjoy a pleasant time together with seniors.
Boat SongYashiro Aki
Aki Yashiro’s signature song is distinguished by lyrics that capture the atmosphere of an izakaya.
The protagonist’s feelings while drinking are delicately conveyed through vivid scene descriptions, expressing a lingering longing for a former lover.
Released in May 1979, the work received high acclaim, including a nomination for the 21st Japan Record Awards.
It was also featured in the 1981 film “Station.” For many older listeners, it’s a song that likely evokes nostalgic memories.
It would be lovely to spend time together humming along and reminiscing about the past.