[For Seniors] Recommended Songs for June: A Collection of Easy-to-Use Kayōkyoku and Children’s Songs for Recreation and BGM

If you’re happy and you know it, clap your handsSakamoto Kyu

Kyu Sakamoto / If You’re Happy and You Know It (1964–65)

Its charm lies in the way you can enjoy it by expressing a heartwarming classic through full-body movement.

It’s a song that lets you share the joy of connecting with others along with a simple, familiar melody.

Released by Kyu Sakamoto in 1964, it became one of his signature songs alongside “Ue o Muite Arukou” (“Sukiyaki”).

Based on an American folk song, Toshito Kimura wrote the Japanese lyrics with wishes for peace and friendship.

A heartwarming experience in the Philippines inspired the creation of this song, and it is said to have spread through activities at the YMCA.

It has been widely used in films and commercials and has long been cherished in educational settings.

Why not enjoy clapping and body movements together with seniors and let the conversation blossom with fond memories?

The Highland Train GoesOkamoto Atsurō

The highland train goes — a nostalgic song

A song that gracefully celebrates the natural beauty of the highlands and the romance of train travel evokes heartwarming memories of family trips and brings to mind wonderful moments with loved ones.

Its sweeping scenery and romantic spirit are sure to soothe anyone’s heart.

Carried by Atsuro Okamoto’s comforting vocals, the pastoral landscapes gently resonate within.

Since its release in 1954, this work has continued to be beloved by many and was featured in the 2020 NHK morning drama series “Yell,” moving audiences across generations.

It’s perfect for a time of sharing old memories over tea with everyone.

Settle in, relax, and enjoy a peaceful moment.

Green Greendōyō

Green Green

Set to a bright melody, “Green Green” sings about living with the message left by a father one can no longer meet.

Originally a song by the American folk group The New Christy Minstrels, in Japan a version with different lyrics from the original has become popular.

Just like the song, some older adults may also have a saying from their fathers that has stayed with them over the years.

On Father’s Day, try singing this song and reflecting on the precious words you received from your father.

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SAKI

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UFOpinku redii

UFO [Furitsuke] / PINK LADY

This song, released in 1977 by Pink Lady, the female idol duo that produced numerous hits from the late 1970s through the 1980s, was created by the golden duo of lyricist Yū Aku and composer Shunichi Tokura.

Their innovative choreography shines in this track as well—the “UFO” pose in the intro is something everyone remembers imitating.

The song itself is, of course, excellent, but when it comes to Pink Lady, it’s ultimately the choreography that truly defines them.

Red ShoesSakushi: Noguchi Ujo / Sakkyoku: Motoori Nagayo

Red Shoes | With Lyrics | The girl who wore red shoes | Nursery Rhymes and Songs for Adults | English: EN subs

This song, created by Ujō Noguchi and Nagayo Motoori—who laid the foundations of Japan’s children’s song culture—carries a sense of exoticism and wistful melancholy.

Released in 1922, it portrays a young girl being taken aboard a foreign ship at the Port of Yokohama, its minor-key melody resonating deeply.

June 2 marks the anniversary of Yokohama’s opening as a port, and in Yamashita Park there stands a statue inspired by this work.

Selected for the “100 Best Japanese Songs” by the National PTA Council of Japan, the piece has been covered by many artists, including Hiromi Iwasaki and Naomi Chiaki.

Familiar to many older listeners, this heartwarming song can spark conversations about life in Japan at the time, dreams of distant lands, and cherished memories.

a bright red sunMisora Hibari

Crimson Sun

The song “Makka na Taiyō” (The Crimson Sun), released in 1967, was performed by Hibari Misora together with Jackie Yoshikawa and the Blue Comets.

It was originally created for an album commemorating the 20th anniversary of Hibari Misora’s career, but thanks to strong praise among the staff and the encouragement of Misora’s mother, Kimie Kato, it was released as a single and became a massive hit, selling 1.4 million copies.

The song, which sings of a blazing love lasting only a single summer, has since been covered by many musicians.

Its powerful rhythm is sure to lift the spirits of listeners.

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kojifumi

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The Bride SambaGō Hiromi

Bride Samba – Hiromi Go

Hiromi Go, who debuted in 1972 and won a passionate following with his sweet looks and voice.

His song “Oyome Samba” has a samba-like rhythm that makes you want to start dancing, making it perfect for karaoke.

There’s a call-and-response part, so it’s easy to enjoy together with other participants around you, which is great, right? When a string of enka and other sad songs has brought the mood down and you want to brighten the atmosphere a bit, this song is your go-to.

Move your body within your comfort level and sing it cheerfully!

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Yuuki

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