[Minna no Uta] Beloved Across Generations: Nostalgic Classics and Popular Songs
We’re introducing some nostalgic songs from Minna no Uta, a program that has continued to produce countless classics.
I’m sure each of you has that one song that makes you think, “When it comes to Minna no Uta, it has to be this one!”
The pieces that stick in your memory may vary by generation, but in this article we’ve focused on songs that everyone knows.
They’re all tunes that feel nostalgic to anyone—just seeing the title will have you humming along before you know it.
If you’re thinking, “I want to listen to the classics from Minna no Uta,” be sure to check these out.
Let’s listen to these timeless favorites, loved across generations, with family and friends, and keep passing them down through song.
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[Minna no Uta] Beloved Across Generations: Nostalgic Classics and Popular Songs (1–10)
The railroad tracks go on forever.amerika min’yō
A timeless classic that resonates with people in any era, inviting listeners on a journey.
Born in late-19th-century America, this song began as a folk tune that voiced the feelings of railroad construction workers.
In Japan, it gained popularity during the 1950s and 60s, drawing attention through NHK’s “Minna no Uta” and as a TV drama theme.
In Toshishi Sagi’s Japanese version, the theme of harsh labor disappeared, and it was reborn as a children’s song depicting a joyful trip.
It’s a track brimming with excitement and hope for adventures woven by the railroad.
Friend ~Time of Departure~yuzu
“Friend ~A Time to Depart~” by Yuzu is well known as a graduation song.
Since it was the set piece for the Junior High School Division of the 80th NHK National School Music Contest (N-Con), it’s also beloved as a choral piece.
Many people have probably shed tears singing or listening to this song at their graduation.
The message to friends who have spent so much time together really hits home.
Partings are sad, but this is a song you’ll definitely want to listen to with your dear friends.
Magical Cooking ~From You to You~BUMP OF CHICKEN
This is BUMP OF CHICKEN’s 17th single, which aired from April to May 2010.
The song was created with the concept of vocalist Motoo Fujiwara speaking to his younger self.
The lyric booklet features a photo of a stuffed toy he actually received as a gift from his grandfather when he was a child, and the episodes that appear in the lyrics are said to be entirely based on real experiences.
The line, “Memories of worn-out toys and countless moments with family—each and every one will become a treasure,” is something that, now that we’re adults, anyone can relate to, isn’t it?
[Minna no Uta] Beloved Classics and Popular Songs That Transcend Time (11–20)
Letter ~Dear fifteen-year-old you~Anjura Aki
It’s also a classic graduation song, isn’t it? This piece is one of singer-songwriter Angela Aki’s signature works, released in 2008 as her eighth single.
That same year it was featured on the program “Minna no Uta” and selected as the compulsory piece for the junior high division of the NHK National School Music Competition.
Its lyrical world—writing a reply to a letter from one’s 15-year-old self—has the power to move anyone’s heart.
It’s an inspiring anthem that fills you with courage and hope to “do your best again tomorrow.”
Thank you, goodbye.Nakai Kiichi, Yoshida Naoko
Broadcast on NHK’s Minna no Uta in 1985, the now-classic graduation song “Arigatou Sayonara” features lyrics by Takao Ide and music by Wakako Fukuda.
School life used to feel like a given.
It wasn’t all fun, and yet when graduation comes, many people feel a pang of loneliness and wish that time could last a little longer.
This song captures those bittersweet feelings and expresses gratitude to the people around us who helped and encouraged our growth.
It’s a moving piece that will resonate with everyone—those about to graduate and those who have long since become adults alike.
YELLikimonogakari
An encouraging song that accompanies graduations and new beginnings will seep into everyone’s heart.
The melody and lyrics woven by Ikimonogakari beautifully capture both hope for the future and the poignancy of farewell.
Released in September 2009, this work was selected as the mandatory piece for the junior high school division of NHK’s National School Music Competition and has been loved by many.
Listening to it at moments of taking a new step—such as graduation ceremonies or farewell parties—will surely give you courage.
Why not revisit this song at the milestones of your life?
The Hungry Tummy SongNEW!sakushi: sakata hiroo / sakkyoku: onaka megumi
When you’re dashing around full of energy amid the fresh greenery, it’s easy to work up an appetite in May! That’s when this children’s song—humorously portraying the hunger everyone feels—fits perfectly.
With lyrics by Hiroo Sakata and music by Megumi Oonaka, it was first published in a magazine in October 1960 and gained popularity after being broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in August 1962.
The image of a growling stomach so empty it feels like your belly and back might stick together makes kids laugh, and its lively, singable melody is part of the charm.
The choice of calling mother “kaachan” also conveys a sense of warmth at home.
When you’ve played so much that you’re absolutely starving, or right before school lunch, singing it might make the meal taste even better! Enjoy singing it during activities at preschool or on picnics, and have fun turning even hunger into a song!