Recommended autumn songs for people in their 90s: A collection of Showa-era autumn tunes

Harvest Moonshouka

♪ Full Moon on the Fifteenth Night – 15-ya Otsuki-san | ♪ Full Moon on the Fifteenth Night, how are you, dear Moon? [Japanese Song / Shoka]

“Jūgoya Otsukisan” is a children’s song that evokes Japan’s four seasons and traditions.

Its lyrics, which depict a lonely girl speaking to the moon, hold a sense of hope within their poignancy.

Noguchi Ujō’s lyrical text and Motoori Nagayo’s friendly melody resonate with many people.

The words portray Japan’s nature and seasonal atmosphere, letting listeners savor the charm of moon-viewing.

Singing it together with older adults may bring back fond memories.

red dragonflyshouka

Red Dragonfly | With Lyrics | 100 Selected Japanese Songs | Red Dragonfly of the Evening Glow

“Akatombo” (Red Dragonfly) is a popular children’s song cherished by many as a symbol of autumn.

Through the image of a red dragonfly glowing in the evening sky, it evokes the nostalgia of early childhood and a longing for things lost.

Since its debut in 1927, its beautiful melody and lyrical poetry have continued to capture the hearts of the Japanese people.

It is often sung in schools and at various events, holding a central place in traditional Japanese music.

For older adults, it may be a song that overlaps with memories from their childhood.

Singing it while reflecting on the meaning of the lyrics could also make for a pleasant and meaningful time.

Village Autumnshouka

Village Autumn (Satonoaki) / Opening lyrics ♪ Quiet, so quiet ♪ / Easy-to-read lyrics included [Japanese song, Japanese traditional song]

“Sato no Aki” (Autumn in the Village) is a beloved classic children’s song that has long been cherished as a symbol of Japan’s four seasons.

It portrays a quiet autumn evening in a rural village, depicting a homely scene scented with simmering chestnuts, and features lyrics that resonate deeply with the Japanese heart through themes of family love and the changing seasons.

First released in 1937, the song’s lyrics were partially revised and re-released after the war.

Its gentle, soothing melody evokes a peaceful autumn atmosphere that brings comfort to listeners.

For many older adults, it is a song that stirs fond memories and vividly recalls tranquil autumn scenes.

maple leavesshouka

Momiji (Autumn Leaves) | With Lyrics | One Hundred Selected Japanese Songs | Maple leaves glowing on mountains in the autumn sunset

“Momiji” is a traditional Japanese children’s song that depicts the autumn foliage on mountains illuminated by the evening sun, celebrating the beauty of the fall season.

Created by Tatsuyuki Takano and Teiichi Okano, it has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Songs.

Known for its simple and beautiful melody, it is one of the songs themed around Japan’s four seasons, particularly praising the beauty of autumn nature.

It is widely used in school music classes and is often sung as a two-part chorus.

It’s a perfect song to sing with seniors—why not sing it at a relaxed pace while picturing the autumn scenery?

village festivalshouka

Village Festival (Japanese Children's Song)

“Village Festival” is a children’s song that depicts a festival celebrating Japan’s bountiful autumn harvest.

When you listen to this tune, doesn’t a nostalgic village scene come to mind? It’s said the lyrics have changed slightly over time, but the feeling of celebrating the joy and richness of traditional Japanese festivals remains the same.

On an autumn evening, you might hum this song while gazing out the window.

It will surely warm your heart.