Lively songs recommended for people in their 90s—fun songs for everyone to listen to and sing together.

Tokyo RhapsodyFujiyama Ichirō

Tokyo Rhapsody, nostalgic song, Tokyo

A classic song representing 1936 (Showa 11) was born in a work set in Ginza, Kanda, Asakusa, and Shinjuku, portrayed in a pure and light foxtrot style.

Ichiro Fujiyama’s beautiful voice elegantly sings of urban scenes and a love story.

This piece, which vividly brings to mind the bustling districts of Tokyo at the time, became a massive hit, selling 350,000 copies.

It was Fujiyama’s first release after moving to Teichiku, and a film of the same title was later produced, cementing its status as a beloved song that symbolizes the Showa era.

It’s a perfect track for a calm moment or when reminiscing about the past.

Enjoy a heartwarming time discussing what Tokyo was like back then together with older listeners.

school daysPegī Hayama

Peggy Hayama - Student Days (with lyrics)

Set against the backdrop of a mission school filled with memories, this heartwarming classic by Peggy Hayama gently weaves a sweet page of youth.

Scenes of the beloved campus are beautifully depicted—the prayers in the chapel, the library with falling autumn leaves, and memories on the tennis courts.

Her tender, embracing voice and the melody that resonates in the heart create a perfect harmony.

Released by King Records in 1964 and performed on the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 1965, the song became a major hit, achieving million-seller status.

A monument bearing the song’s lyrics was erected in front of Aoyama Gakuin’s chapel, and it continues to be cherished by many to this day.

Hum a few lines when friends gather, and stories of joyful school days are sure to bloom.

The pier where that girl is cryingMitsubishi Michiya

Mitsu Hashi Michiya [The Pier Where That Girl Is Crying]

It is a song that beautifully depicts the scenery of a port town and the subtleties of the heart, with Michiya Mihashi’s clear and graceful singing voice leaving a strong impression.

This work, which seamlessly blends the sorrow of unrequited love with scenes of people working at the harbor, resonates with many and evokes a sense of nostalgia.

Released as a single in 1955, it achieved the astonishing sales figure of 1.8 million copies.

In the same year, it was adapted into a Toho film, in which Mihashi himself also appeared.

We hope it allows seniors and their families to spend a heartwarming moment together, reminiscing about youth filled with precious memories.

Paradise of YouthHaruo Oka

Paradise of Youth

“Seishun no Paradise” by Haruo Oka, a star singer who represents postwar Japan.

Released in November 1946, the song captivates with its bright, hopeful melody and lyrics themed around the joys of youth and romance.

In the classic Showa-era kayōkyoku style, Oka’s outstanding vocal prowess shines over a friendly, lively tune.

It is a masterpiece that offered great comfort and encouragement to the Japanese people during the dark postwar period, and even today, his warm, gentle voice continues to be loved by many.

Singing it together with someone in their 90s could make for a wonderful moment, as you both bask in memories of their younger days.

Kiyoshi’s Soran BushiHikawa Kiyoshi

Kiyoshi Hikawa / Kiyoshi’s Soran Bushi [Official]

A masterpiece that resounds with a superb arrangement of a traditional Hokkaido folk song.

Set to the powerful rhythms once passed down by fishermen, it weaves in the joys and hopes of life.

Kiyoshi Hikawa’s robust vocals blend perfectly with the modern arrangement.

Released as a single in May 2007, it reached No.

3 on the Oricon charts and won the Gold Award at the 49th Japan Record Awards.

It was performed as the “YOSAKOI Soran Kouhaku Special” at the 58th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, captivating audiences with a dazzling stage.

Ideal for group singing, this song is highly recommended for recreation at day-service centers.

With lively call-and-response, everyone can enjoy a fun time together.

Ozasiki Song

Ozashiki kouta, popular song, Kyoto, geiko

It was sung in 1964 by Hiroshi Wada and the Mahina Stars along with Kazuko Matsuo.

While the Tokyo Olympics likely helped, the economy at the time was far from strong, yet the song became a massive hit with total sales of 2.5 million copies, setting a new record for record sales back then.

Thanks to its musical style, it also became wildly popular at drinking parties across the country: people would sing just the first verse, then others around them would join in with humorous parody verses and enjoy themselves.

It’s said that it can be even more enjoyable at senior care facilities’ recreational events if, in addition to singing the original lyrics, participants share parody versions they know.

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Hello from countries around the worldMinami Haruo

Hello from countries around the world

Released in March 1967, this heartwarming song by Haruo Minami became a beloved national favorite, selling over three million copies as the theme song for Expo ’70 in Osaka.

Its heartfelt wish for global exchange and peace is gently wrapped in a friendly melody and bright, uplifting vocals.

Expressing human connection through warm smiles and handshakes, the song has continued to be cherished as a bridge linking people across generations.

We believe it will bring back fond memories and offer a wonderful time as seniors enjoy singing it together.