[For people in their 90s] Recommended Christmas songs: from nostalgic school songs and hymns to timeless classics

Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu

Miagete Goran Yoru No Hoshi Wo

This is a classic song in which Kyu Sakamoto’s gentle singing voice resonates with the heart.

It celebrates the beauty of the glittering stars in the night sky and carries a message that offers people hope and comfort.

Released in 1963, it won the Composer’s Award at the 5th Japan Record Awards.

It is also known as a musical number, with Kyu Sakamoto himself starring.

It’s recommended listening on Christmas night while gazing at the starry sky from your window.

Why not make a wish upon the stars and hum along with someone special?

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star

[With Vocals] Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star with Lyrics (Kirakira Boshi, Kirakira-boshi)

A nursery rhyme about the twinkling stars in the night sky that everyone hummed as a child.

Reconstructed by rutekia in August 2025 as a contemporary instrumental piece, this work uses electro-classical techniques to express the sparkle of stars in sound.

The original melody traces back to an 18th-century French chanson, with Mozart himself composing variations on it.

Delicate timbres of synthesizer and piano evoke the expanse of the night sky, making it perfect for quiet listening on Christmas night.

How about spending a moment gazing at the stars with older loved ones, reminiscing about memories of the beloved nursery rhyme?

Santa Claus is coming

Santa Claus is coming

This song gently heralds the arrival of Christmas.

Since Gene Autry released it in 1947, it has become a classic covered by many artists.

The lyrics, which depict Santa Claus coming to deliver presents to children, are so exciting to listen to.

Elvis Presley’s cover is especially famous and was included on his 1957 album “Elvis’ Christmas Album.” It was also used in the film “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Listening to it with older adults could spark joyful conversations as you reminisce about the past together.

Kantarō the North Wind Kid

Kantaro the North Wind Kid / Minna no Uta

This is a classic song that playfully depicts the chill of winter.

It features Kantaro, a north wind spirit, who humorously expresses the harshness of the season.

When it was first broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1974, it was sung by Masakazu Sakai.

Since then, many artists, including Saburo Kitajima, have covered it, and it’s been loved across generations.

Yu Takahashi’s cover also drew attention.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants to stay upbeat despite the cold.

Listening to it around Christmas makes the seasonal mood even richer.

On a chilly day, how about warming up with a hot drink while enjoying this song?

winter sceneryshouka

Winter Scenery (Winter Children’s Song)

It is a school song that richly evokes winter scenes in Japan.

With poetic language—such as a harbor where the fog lifts and the raging force of a storm—it conveys a vivid sense of the season.

Its graceful, gentle triple meter is a hallmark, expressing the quiet and comfort felt alongside winter’s harsh natural world.

Since its debut in 1913, it has long been cherished in school education.

In 2007, it was selected for the “100 Best Japanese Songs,” a testament to its universally recognized appeal.

How about humming it together with older adults? It might bring back fond memories.

Winter Constellationshouka

Ministry of Education Song, Winter Constellations

This is a heartwarming song inspired by constellations shining in the winter night sky.

It delicately portrays the beauty of the stars spread across a quiet winter night and the emotions of those who gaze up at them.

The lyrics find hope even in the cold, gently embracing listeners and offering comfort.

It’s a piece that lets you savor the feel of winter while letting your thoughts drift to the sparkle of the constellations—a song for spending peaceful moments.

How about listening to it on Christmas night with your family or someone special? It might also spark conversations and shared memories as you look up at the starry sky.

Amazing Grace

Amazing Grace / Minako Honda

This piece is distinguished by its crystal-clear, beautiful melody and an elegant, delicate atmosphere.

Beloved in the United States as a “second national anthem,” it’s also a tune often heard in Japanese TV dramas and film commercials.

Its gentle character makes it perfect for a leisurely Christmas.

The lyrics were written by the English clergyman John Newton.

Originally a hymn, it’s now known through performances by many different artists.

Not only is the song moving, but it pairs wonderfully with the piano’s luminous, transparent tone.

How about enjoying it by listening together with seniors or singing it slowly at a relaxed pace?