[For Seniors] Classic Autumn Songs to Sing in November: From Children’s Songs to Popular Enka and Kayōkyoku

Happiness is here.ōtsu yoshiko

Here Lies Happiness (Koko ni Sachi Ari), Showa 31 (1956) (sung by Yoshiko Otsu) – Nihon Kayō Channel

Yoshiko Otsu’s singing voice brings heartwarming kindness and deep emotion.

Released in 1956, this work has continued to be loved as a classic wedding song.

As the theme song of a film, it became an unprecedented smash hit and has been sung not only in Japan but around the world.

The lyrics, which portray the way women live in a harsh world, resonate with many people.

They touch the heart by conveying the happiness that awaits beyond life’s hardships.

It’s a song I’d love older listeners to hum as a cherished memory from their youth.

Years of Joy and SorrowWakayama Akira

Joys and Sorrows Through the Years — Akira Wakayama

“Joy and Sorrow Through the Years” is a song released by Akira Wakayama in 1957.

It was created as the theme song for a film depicting the life of a lighthouse keeper and his wife.

The lyrics portray the couple living amid harsh natural conditions.

Featuring images from across Japan—such as snowy northern regions and remote islands—the words resonate deeply with listeners.

Wakayama’s warm voice gently conveys the lighthouse keepers’ way of life and the beauty of nature.

The song was widely beloved, even appearing on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It’s a piece that may prompt older listeners to reminisce about their younger days.

Sky of my hometownsakushi: oowada kenki

Hometown Sky (Autumn Children's Song / School Song)

This is a school song that sings of gazing up at the autumn evening sky and letting one’s thoughts wander to a distant hometown.

Set to a traditional Scottish folk tune, the Japanese lyrics were written by the Meiji-era poet Takeki Owada.

It was published in May 1888 in Meiji Shoka, Volume 1, and expresses the anxious hope that one’s parents and siblings back home are living well.

For older adults who have spent many years away from their hometowns, the lyrics may evoke fond memories.

On these long autumn nights, try humming it while picturing the landscape of your own hometown.

Tanuki-bayashi of Shojoji (The Raccoon Dogs’ Festival Drumming at Shojoji Temple)Sakushi: Noguchi Ujō / Sakkyoku: Nakayama Shinpei

Shojoji no Tanuki-bayashi [with song] – Children’s Song

This is a children’s song written by Ujo Noguchi and composed by Shinpei Nakayama, based on the raccoon dog festival legend handed down in Kisarazu City, Chiba Prefecture.

You can just picture the lively scene of tanuki drumming their bellies “ponpoko” and dancing at the temple on a moonlit night.

Since it was introduced in a children’s magazine in 1925, it has been loved by people of all ages.

It was even used with new lyrics for the NHK radio program “English Conversation,” so some listeners may find it familiar.

Its many repeated phrases make it easy to sing.

On a long autumn night, why not hum it while moon-viewing? If seniors gather together, try moving your bodies for fun—pat your bellies or beckon with your hands in time with the lyrics.

Tanuki of Fist MountainSakushi: Kayama Yoshiko/Shokyoku: Komori Akihiro

Kids Song | Genkotsuyama no Tanuki-san | Nursery Rhyme | Children's Song | Red Cat Reading

When it comes to classic hand-play songs everyone knows, this one is the standout.

It spread nationwide after being featured in 1973 on NET TV’s program “Tobe Tobe Panpororin.” Written by Yoshiko Kayama and composed by Akihiro Komori, it’s a fun play song newly created from a traditional children’s chant.

The gestures that match the lyrics—like stacking fists or adding cuddling motions—are adorable and make it perfect to enjoy with your grandchildren.

The simple choreography lets you move your body easily even while seated.

Why not spend a pleasant moment humming this nostalgic tune?

lighthouse keepershouka

Song 'The Lighthouse Keeper'

This song is a school anthem that portrays the lighthouse keeper’s loneliness and pride.

It was included in the Ministry of Education’s textbooks in 1947.

The lyrics depict a lighthouse keeper watching over rough seas and safely guiding ships at night with the lighthouse’s light.

The melody is gentle and sentimental, in triple meter.

It has been used as a children’s song and as part of school music education.

In the 1980s, it was also broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” becoming widely beloved.

Singing it with older people may bring back memories of their youth.

It’s a piece that invites nostalgia and promises a heartwarming moment.

Village AutumnKawada Masako

Sato no Aki — Ms. Masako Kawada

The children’s song “Sato no Aki,” widely known across generations thanks to its inclusion in music textbooks, was released in 1948 with vocals by Masako Kawada and was selected for the “100 Best Japanese Songs” in 2007.

The lyrics were written by Nobuo Saito, and the music was composed by Minoru Kainuma.

The song’s lyrics depict a parent and child spending autumn together, making it a perfect match for the season’s scenery.

Many older listeners may find that it brings back memories of their childhood.

Please give it a try and sing along.

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