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Lovely autumn song

[Autumn Classics] Japanese Songs to Listen to and Sing in October: A Curated Selection of Beloved, Heartfelt Hits

October, when you can feel autumn’s arrival.

As the weather cools a little, what kind of songs do you feel like listening to? When a song suddenly resonates with you—while strolling through a park with falling leaves or on your way to school or work—it makes the changing seasons feel even more vivid.

In this article, we’ll introduce songs that are perfect for October.

Autumn evokes many elements: the sentimental glow of a crimson sunset, the moon, flowers, and more.

From tracks that conjure nostalgic memories of fall to songs you’ll want to listen to right now, you’re sure to find one that speaks to your heart!

[Autumn Masterpieces] Japanese Songs to Listen to and Sing in October! A Curated Selection of Popular, Heartfelt Tracks (101–110)

I can’t recognize the scent of osmanthus.Mita-mura Chiharu

Suddenly, can you describe the scent of osmanthus in words? Many people can kind of imagine it, but can’t quite explain it, right? This song, whose title taps into that vague sense of shared feeling, is by singer-songwriter Chiharu Mitamura.

As you read the lyrics, which trace the relationship and feelings between the narrator and “you,” you feel a sweet-and-sour poignancy that tightens something deep in your chest.

I also think the acoustic sound and her warm voice perfectly suit the relaxed atmosphere of autumn.

Autumn GradientClariS

ClariS “Autumn Gradient” Lyric Video (Illustration: Tan-dan)
Autumn GradientClariS

It’s a song that beautifully overlays the poignant scenery of autumn with the lingering aftertaste of heartbreak.

ClariS’s clear, translucent vocals delicately capture the shifting of the seasons and the tremors of the heart.

The sound carries an oriental atmosphere, and the dynamic arrangement that conveys a swelling of emotion is also captivating.

Released in October 2024, this track is included on the mini-album “AUTUMN TRACKS – Songs of Fall -.” As one piece in a collection themed around autumn, it’s brimming with seasonal flavor.

It’s a perfect song to listen to alone at dusk.

Why not savor it quietly on a long autumn night?

Cosmos Highwaykaryūdō

This is a hit number released in 1977 by the brother duo Kariudo, who were active in the 1970s.

The lyrics were written by Machiko Ryu and the music composed by Shunichi Tokura, both of whom were called hitmakers at the time.

It’s also a rare, passionate Showa-era kayōkyoku that two men can sing in karaoke with matched vocals and choreography.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear in autumn—one that gently embraces an old love.

Fall feels emoKyūso Nekokami

Kyuso Nekokami is a five-piece rock band expanding their fanbase with lyrics that are easy to empathize with.

“Aki Emoi,” included as the B-side to their third single “Wakattendayo,” stands out for its band ensemble featuring a synth sound with a sense of transparency and weightlessness.

The lyrics, which evoke scenes of summer ending and autumn setting in, capture the heart with their realistic depictions.

It’s an autumn-tinged track whose contrast between driving beats and a wistful melody lingers in the ear.

DragonflyDREAMS COME TRUE

It’s a song included at the end of DREAMS COME TRUE’s 10th album “the Monster,” released in 1999.

Although it’s relatively short for a DCT track, the lyrics—overlaying the singer’s feelings onto a dragonfly soaring through the autumn sky—naturally resonate with the heart.

It’s a hidden gem.

[Autumn Masterpieces] Japanese Songs to Listen to and Sing in October! A Curated Selection of Popular, Heartfelt Tracks (111–120)

Behold, the hero returns.George Frideric Handel

Behold, the hero returns / Tokyo Metropolitan Kogei High School PTA Choir
Behold, the hero returns.George Frideric Handel

When you think of the famous piece played at sports day award ceremonies, it’s that accompaniment people hum in TV comedy sketches—“Nee-nee-ki-nee-nee…” Right? In fact, that’s actually part of the oratorio Judas Maccabaeus by the Baroque composer George Frideric Handel from medieval Europe.

Did you know that? It’s one of those masterpieces I’d love for you to sit down and listen to properly at least once.

October ~Lily Casablanca~sadamasashi

October ~Lily Casablanca~ Masashi Sada
October ~Lily Casablanca~sadamasashi

Ever since his debut and even now, Masashi Sada has enjoyed overwhelming support.

When it comes to his poignant songs, “October ~Lily Casablanca~” stands out.

It’s a very simple piece centered on piano and vocals.

The lyrics, which recall a past lover, express feelings just as they are.

The unforgettable ache captured in the words, his beautiful voice, and the delicate piano are a perfect match.

It’s a classic that brings back the slightly lonely days of October spent with someone dear.