A collection of moving, tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 90s—heartfelt tunes that resonate with the soul.

The Ferry of TearsMiyako Harumi

The Ferry of Tears

Harumi Miyako’s signature song “Namida no Renkakusen” (The Ferry of Tears) is a classic that sings of a heartrending love.

The sound of the ship’s whistle echoing through a lonely night is used as a symbol that brings back memories of a lost love.

Combined with Miyako’s powerful vocals, it’s a song that resonates deeply with listeners.

Since its release in 1964, it has continued to be loved by many.

Through the universal theme of a relationship’s end, its relatable lyrics may overlap with the life experiences of older listeners.

I hope you’ll take your time enjoying the song while reminiscing about fond memories.

Mother on the QuayKikuchi Akiko

Mother on the Quay (with dialogue)

Akiko Kikuchi’s “Mother on the Wharf” is a classic that sings of a mother’s heartrending feelings after the war.

The image of a mother standing on the pier day after day, waiting for her distant son to return, tightens the heart.

In the lyrics, which repeatedly cling to hope, the mother’s tenacity and despair are powerfully expressed.

Symbolizing the tragedy of war and the bonds of family, this song continues to be passed down and sung by many people even today.

Why not listen to it while thinking of someone dear to you?

Tokyo ElegySanjō Machiko

Tokyo Elegy

Michiko Sanjo’s “Tokyo Elegy” is a masterpiece that sings of the postwar melancholy of Tokyo.

Released in 1951, it became a major hit on the music scene of the time.

For older listeners, it may be a song that overlaps with memories of their youth.

The depictions of rain and scenes like the Nikolai Cathedral further accentuate the loneliness of the city.

It’s a song I especially recommend to those who have experienced parting with someone dear, or who wish to reminisce about their younger days.

Goodbye, people of Tokyo.Shimakura Chiyoko

Goodbye, people of Tokyo.

Chiyoko Shimakura’s “Goodbye, People of Tokyo” is a masterpiece that vividly portrays a farewell in the big city.

The delicate imagery—the sea and harbor scenes, the sound of a ship’s whistle that evokes the sorrow of parting—deeply resonates.

Released in 1957, the song became one of Shimakura’s signature works, was adapted into a film, and has been loved by many.

For older listeners, it may bring back memories of the past and farewells with loved ones.

Why not savor its unforgettable lyrics alongside the nostalgic scenery of the Showa era?

Enoshima ElegySugawara Totoko

Totsuko Sugawara: Enoshima Elegy

Todoko Sugawara’s “Enoshima Elegy” is a classic that overlays the sorrow of a broken heart with the beautiful scenery of Enoshima.

Her singing, featuring a distinctive vibrato, delicately conveys the ache of love.

Released in 1951, it became a huge hit, even adapted into a film.

For older listeners, it may spark memories of the past or reflections on life’s turning points.

It’s recommended for those who resonate with nostalgic landscapes and experiences of lost love.

Why not spend some quiet time listening and slowly reminiscing about days gone by?

Though I wait for youHirano Aiko

Kimi Matedomo (1971 Re-recorded Stereo Version)

Aiko Hirano’s “Kimi Matedomo” is a masterpiece that beautifully sings of the loneliness and solitude of someone who keeps waiting.

Its heartrending vocals and profound lyrics will resonate deeply with older listeners.

Loved by many as a postwar Japanese hit, it has also been featured in films and TV dramas.

The delicate imagery—flowers by the window, a hazy evening, the sound of rain—leaves a strong impression.

It’s a song I especially recommend to anyone who has spent part of their life waiting for someone precious.

Listening with the lyric sheet might help you immerse yourself even more deeply in the world of the song.

The Blues I Won’t Forget YouAwaya Noriko

Noriko Awaya “The Blues I Won’t Forget You” (from “Noriko Awaya Complete Song Collection”). Please note: This is restored from an SP record, so there may be noise and distortion originating from the disc.

Noriko Awaya’s “Kimi Wasureji no Blues” is a moving classic centered on the theme of lost love.

The lyrics evoke the image of a woman opening her window and singing on a lonely night.

Awaya’s powerful yet heartrending voice beautifully conveys the sorrow of a love that has passed.

The song has been used in many films and TV dramas and has been cherished by audiences across generations.

When you feel like reminiscing about old memories or thinking of someone dear, why not listen to it slowly? You’re sure to spend a wonderful time that soaks into your heart.