Recommended Songs for Nursing Home Recreation [Fun Exercise, Soothing Songs]

SakurazakaFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Sakurazaka (Full ver.)

Sakurazaka is a gem of a ballad released by Masaharu Fukuyama in 2000.

Set to a bittersweet yet beautiful melody, it sings of feelings for a former lover.

His gentle vocals, which seem to softly embrace lingering memories, draw you in before you know it.

It’s a perfect song to listen to with older adults.

The relaxed rhythm is calming, and it can evoke a sense of nostalgia.

The lyrics, which express the feeling of waiting for spring’s arrival, inspire a sense of hope.

In a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a song that can add a bloom to each person’s memories and help you spend a heartwarming, enriching moment.

Hey, Nakamura-kun!Wakahara Ichirō

Ichiro Wakahara - Hey, Nakamura-kun (with lyrics)

Ichiro Wakahara’s “Hey, Nakamura-kun” is an approachable song that evokes the atmosphere of the Showa era.

Its lyrics, depicting the everyday life of a salaryman, stir up a sense of nostalgia.

You can feel the warm concern of a friend looking out for a newly married colleague, which is heartwarming.

Released in 1958, it was a popular song that also appeared on NHK’s Kohaku Uta Gassen.

For older listeners, it may be a track that brings back memories of their youth.

Singing it in recreational settings would likely get everyone happily engaged.

With lyrics themed around friendship and bonds, it could also serve as a spark for conversation.

The Bells of NagasakiFujiyama Ichirō

Nagasaki no Kane (The Bells of Nagasaki) — Music by Yuji Koseki, 1949 (Sung by Ichiro Fujiyama)

Ichiro Fujiyama’s “Nagasaki no Kane” (“The Bells of Nagasaki”).

Its charm lies in Hachiro Sato’s lyrically rich lyrics and Yuji Koseki’s heartwarming melody.

Set in postwar Nagasaki, the song’s wish for peace, entrusted to the sound of bells, is deeply moving.

Released in 1949, it became a classic that was also performed at the very first NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

For older listeners, it’s nostalgic and likely to spark fond reminiscences.

Wrapped in its gentle vocals, it’s also perfect for relaxed movement-based recreation.

A song that offers a truly heartwarming moment.

The boatman is dear.Otomaru

Beloved boatman — a popular song, a nostalgic tune

Otomaru’s “Sendō Kawaiya” is a song whose soothing melody and melodic turns evoke nostalgic scenes.

The lyrics, depicting a nighttime seaside setting and a faint budding romance, invite a sense of nostalgia and empathy.

Released in 1935, the piece is known as a major prewar hit, and it was also featured in NHK’s 2020 morning drama series “Yell.” Listening to this song during recreational activities may prompt people to share memories or quietly nod in recognition.

Otomaru’s gentle singing voice can connect hearts through singing together and create new opportunities for interaction.

The Highland Train GoesOkamoto Atsurō

The Highland Train Is Coming (1954) — Vocals: Atsurō Okamoto — Japan Kayō (Popular Song) Channel

Atsuro Okamoto’s “The Highland Train Is Coming” is a lovely song that captures the charm of travel with a lively melody.

Since its release in 1954, it has remained beloved by many.

Performed at the 5th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, it left a significant mark on Japanese musical culture.

It’s a familiar tune for older listeners, evoking both nostalgia and joy.

Singing it together in a recreational setting can lift everyone’s spirits.

It’s also used as the departure melody at Fukushima Station, making it a great cue to reminisce about travel memories.

Whether you listen to it leisurely or enjoy it while moving your body, it’s a wonderful song.

A hill with a view of the harborHirano Aiko

A Hill with a View of the Harbor / Aiko Hirano (original singer) stage

The classic song “The Hill Overlooking the Harbor” beautifully depicts scenes of a port town.

Carried by Aiko Hirano’s rich, velvety voice, nostalgic memories come flooding back.

The song delicately portrays bittersweet love and parting, and its deeply moving melody is captivating.

Since its release in 1947, it has continued to be cherished by many, and it is sure to gently soothe the hearts of older listeners.

It’s a wonderful piece that brings a sense of nostalgia and offers a chance to reflect on life.

In its unhurried atmosphere, it might be nice for everyone to hum along together.

It’s certain to bring a warm, heartfelt moment.

Over the hillFujiyama Ichirō

Over the hill

A classic that represents Showa-era kayōkyoku, Ichiro Fujiyama’s “Oka wo Koete” (“Over the Hills”).

Its fresh, pleasant voice and melody resonate with the heart.

It was released in 1931, yet it still retains an undimmed charm even today.

The hope-filled lyrics give you the courage to take a new step in life.

For older adults, it brings back nostalgic memories while also serving as encouragement for the days ahead.

During recreation, everyone can hum along or enjoy it while doing light exercises.

It’s also perfect for times when you want to relax at an easy pace.