Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 1960s
Japan in the 1960s was a tumultuous era: right in the midst of the so-called “period of rapid economic growth,” hailed as the Miracle of the East, with developments like the Tokyo Olympics and the Osaka World Expo.
In the music scene, beyond the frenzy surrounding The Beatles’ visit to Japan, there were many epoch-making events—such as Kyu Sakamoto’s classic “Ue o Muite Arukō” topping the U.S.
charts under the title “SUKIYAKI.”
In this article, we’ll introduce nostalgic Japanese pop songs that colored Japan in the ’60s.
Enjoy these beloved classics—from kayōkyoku and folk songs to Group Sounds (GS)—that remain popular even with today’s younger generation!
Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 1960s (1–10)
Drifters’ Zundoko BushiZa Dorifutāzu
The cheerful song by The Drifters is a classic that portrays the bittersweet romance of youth with a lively rhythm.
Its lyrics are filled with memories of young love, like a kiss in the shade of the woods after school and heartwarming moments in the school cafeteria.
Released in November 1969, the song captured the hearts of young people at the time and became a major hit.
It was also performed on the TV show “It’s 8 o’clock! Everyone Gather,” making it a household favorite.
It’s a perfect track for those who want to reminisce about the past or lift their spirits with something bright and fun.
12th graderFunaki Kazuo
As a classic of 1960s campus songs, this is a landmark of youth kayō that passionately captures the wavering emotions of teenagers.
It was recorded when Kazuo Funaki was actually a third-year high school student, and his fresh vocals breathe life into the song.
Released in June 1963, it became a massive hit, surpassing one million copies in less than a year, and it won the Best New Artist Award at the 5th Japan Record Awards.
A film of the same title was also released, and with this debut song, Funaki quickly rose to stardom.
Depicting the complex feelings of high school students on the brink of graduation, this work has continued to be loved by a wide range of generations—from adults nostalgic for their school days to current students.
I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu
This is a song that continues to be loved as a classic representing the 1960s.
Rokusuke Ei’s heartwarming lyrics and Hachidai Nakamura’s melodious composition blend beautifully, and Kyu Sakamoto’s gentle voice resonates deeply with listeners.
The lyrics, filled with the strength to keep walking forward while holding back tears and the hope of believing in happiness no matter what, have supported many hearts.
Since its release in 1961, it has been a massive hit not only in Japan but around the world.
In particular, it became beloved in the United States under the title “SUKIYAKI,” achieving the remarkable feat of reaching No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It’s a song that gives you courage when you’re going through tough or sad times and want to face forward and keep trying.
I’m in trouble.Yamamoto Rinda
“Komacchau Na” is Linda Yamamoto’s debut single, released in 1966 by Minophon Records.
It became a hit, selling 700,000 copies.
Her distinctive, slightly lisping singing style was considered cute and won many admirers.
Scat at DawnYuki Saori
This is a signature work by Saori Yuki that sent shockwaves through Japan’s music scene in the 1960s.
It’s a unique song that skillfully incorporates scat singing, truly emblematic of its era.
Released in 1969, it topped the Oricon weekly singles chart for eight consecutive weeks and became a million-seller with 1.09 million copies sold.
The piece was originally created as the opening theme for a late-night TBS Radio program, but due to strong listener response, it was released as a single.
Its refreshing atmosphere, evoking the anticipation of a new day just before dawn, makes it perfect for morning drives or commuting to work or school.
Season of LovePinkī to Kirāzu
“Koi no Kisetsu,” released in July 1968 as Pinky & the Killers’ debut single, became a major hit, topping the Oricon singles chart for 17 consecutive weeks and standing as one of the defining songs of the 1960s.
Its hallmark is a simple, catchy melody infused with a Latin groove that incorporates bossa nova elements.
The lyrics contrast a once-blazing passion with the cool detachment of the present, highlighting a fresh sensitivity unique to a female perspective.
The song was featured in a 1968 cold medicine commercial and the 1969 film “Hana Hiraku Musumetachi,” and it continues to be loved across generations.
It’s a track that makes you want to listen by the seaside on a summer night.
Memories of a Summer DayHino Teruko
Memories of a Summer Day is the seventh single by Teruko Hino, released in 1965.
It became a million-seller, and she also appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
Debuting as a Hawaiian-style singer, Hino was popular for her slow-tempo songs filled with wistful emotion.