[For Seniors] September Song Special: Introducing Nostalgic Classics and Children’s Songs that Evoke Autumn

Moon

Children’s Song: The Moon

This is a traditional children’s song that has long been beloved and is familiar to many older adults.

With simple, heartfelt lyrics, it expresses the beauty of the moon floating in the autumn night sky.

The way the moon appears and disappears behind the clouds is depicted so vividly that you can almost see it before your eyes.

First published in 1911 as a Ministry of Education song, it has been sung for generations.

Many people may remember singing it during school music classes.

This piece can help older adults—who may find it harder to sense the seasons—feel the arrival of autumn.

It’s great for group singing, and also enjoyable with clapping or gentle movement.

Sky of my hometownshouka

Song 'Furusato no Sora'

“Furusato no Sora” portrays scenes of remembering one’s hometown while gazing at a beautiful autumn sunset.

Its original melody comes from the Scottish folk song “Comin’ Thro’ the Rye,” and the Japanese lyrics were written by the poet and lyricist Kenki Owada.

The lyrics depict thoughts drifting to one’s hometown in autumn—where insects sing and seasonal plants grow more colorful—and wondering how one’s parents and siblings are doing.

For older adults who have lived away from their hometowns, these lyrics may evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Please listen while recalling the autumn of your own hometown.

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SAKI

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Harvest Moon over Mount AkagiTōkairin Tarō

Harvest Moon over Mount Akagi

Set under the moonlight of Mount Akagi, this song portrays the feelings of a chivalrous outlaw parting ways.

It is one of Taro Shoji’s signature pieces, an artist active since before the war.

Released in 1939, it resonated with many people.

Known for his unique performance style—standing ramrod straight in a tailcoat—Shoji sang with the conviction that “songs are for the people.” It’s a tune familiar to many older adults and perfect for autumn events.

Singing it together can evoke nostalgia and a sense of the season.

Adding hand claps or light exercises could make it even more enjoyable.

Please try sharing it with older adults and enjoy it together.

Village Autumn

Sato no Aki (Autumn in the Village) by Chieko Baisho

Sato no Aki (Autumn in the Hometown) is a beloved classic familiar to both children and adults, even included in elementary school music textbooks.

Its lyrics—written in beautiful Japanese that evoke the country’s traditional landscapes—are exceptional, and in 2007 it was selected for the “100 Best Japanese Songs.” The song was released on December 24, 1945, the year World War II ended.

It also carries a profound sentiment, depicting a mother and child waiting for the father who went off to war.

For many older adults, it’s a song that truly touches the heart.

Please consider listening to it at senior care facilities or together with your family.

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miyabi

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What a nice bath.Za Dorifutāzu

The Drifters Nice Hot Bath (with lyrics)

It’s a song with an impressive, cheerful melody that feels like listening to the sound of a hot spring flowing.

The lyrics are full of humor, as if The Drifters are touring hot spring resorts all around Japan.

Released in September 1966, this track has been used in TV shows and movies and is loved by many people.

Since September 9 is Hot Springs Day, it’s perfect to sing together with seniors and have fun.

It’s also recommended to clap along or move your body while humming the phrase “Babanba Ban Ban Ban.” If everyone sings together, it will surely become a delightful memory.

The Bus SongSakushi: Satō Yoshimi / Sakkyoku: Ōnaka Megumi

The Wheels on the Bus | Japanese Nursery Rhyme | Little Baby Bum – Children’s Songs | LBB Japanese

The children’s song created by Yoshimi Sato and Megumi Oonaka is about the joy of riding a bus.

It features a light, friendly melody that older adults are sure to find nostalgic.

Ever since it was broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1962, it has been loved for many years.

The song portrays strangers on a bus spending time together amicably, filling listeners with warmth.

How about singing it at an autumn event? Everyone can enjoy it by clapping along and moving their bodies.

It would be wonderful to spend time singing with older adults, reminiscing about the past together.

Tsuki no Hozenji YokochoFujishima Tsuneo

Hozenji Yokocho of the Moon / Takeo Fujishima (with lyrics)

How about an event where we enjoy classic hits from the Showa era? One of Taneo Fujishima’s signature songs portrays a young couple’s breakup set in Osaka’s Hozenji Yokocho.

Its wistful melody and emotionally rich lyrics truly resonate.

Released in 1960, the piece became a major hit thanks to Fujishima’s vocal prowess and the high quality of its lyrics and composition.

It’s also distinctive for including spoken lines.

It would be lovely to sing along and clap together while reminiscing about nostalgic Showa-era scenes.

It might even spark lively memories and stories among older participants.