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[Nostalgic Songs] A collection of tear-jerking Japanese tracks recommended for men in their 70s

What kind of music is a “tearjerker” for you?

Maybe it’s a song that brings to mind the scenery of your hometown, or a tune that your family or a past lover used to love—there are probably many pieces that come to mind.

In this article, we’ve put together a selection of tear-jerking Japanese songs with the theme “Recommended for men in their 70s.”

We’ve focused mainly on hit songs from the 1960s and 1970s.

We’re introducing nothing but timeless masterpieces that touch the heart.

Please take your time and listen while reminiscing about those days.

[Nostalgic Melodies] A Selection of Tear-Jerking Japanese Songs Recommended for Men in Their 70s (31–40)

I’ve come a long way, when I think about it.Kaientai

Thinking about it, I've come a long way / Kaientai (with lyrics)
I've come a long way, when I think about it.Kaientai

A masterwork by Kaientai that gently portrays life’s milestones—from an autumn scene where cosmos flowers sway, to memories by the Chikugo River, and on to life today.

Its nostalgic melody and heartwarming lyrics resonate deeply with those living away from their hometowns.

Released as a single in September 1978, the song was composed by Yasuyo Yamaki and delivered in Tetsuya Takeda’s gentle voice.

It was chosen as the theme song for a film released the same year and later used in a 1981 television drama starring Ikko Furuya.

This is a piece to be enjoyed while basking in memories, letting time flow unhurriedly.

a red handkerchiefIshihara Yūjirō

Set against the backdrop of a northern spring, this song tells the story of a bittersweet farewell in love.

Carried by a gentle, lyrical melody, Yujiro Ishihara’s rich vocals vividly portray the lingering feelings of heartbreak.

Released by Teichiku Records in October 1962, the track is also included on the album “Yujiro Ishihara Original 6.” In January 1964, it was used as the theme song for a film of the same name starring Ishihara, captivating the hearts of many alongside the movie.

Even today, it remains a beloved classic that everyone can hum along to and is very popular at karaoke.

With its heartfelt lyrics and approachable melody, it’s the perfect song for singing together and having fun.

Forget-me-not to youSugawara Yoichi

②_ Yoichi Sugawara Forget-me-not to You (with lyrics)
Forget-me-not to youSugawara Yoichi

This is a masterpiece that has long been cherished as a romantic lyrical song.

It gives voice to the bittersweet feelings for someone you’re parting from and the wish to meet again someday, carried on a blue flower with a cherished meaning.

Released in November 1971 and performed at that year’s Red and White Song Battle, it was presented again at the 1984 edition, thirteen years later.

It’s a song you’ll want to hum as you recall precious memories and think of someone dear.

How about spending a quiet evening thinking of someone you love?

Parting at 22kaze

Parting at 22 / Kaze (with lyrics)
Parting at 22kaze

The debut song by the folk duo Kaze is a heartwarming classic, as gentle as the spring sunshine.

The lyrics vividly portray the pure love and parting of youth, while the tender acoustic guitar melody weaves a beautiful harmony.

Since its release in 1975, it has been covered by many artists and even adapted into a film by director Nobuhiko Obayashi in 2007, remaining beloved across generations.

In NHK’s “SukiUta — Kouhaku Everyone’s Survey,” it ranked 71st for the White Team.

It’s a perfect song for savoring slowly when you want to bask in nostalgic memories, and it could also spark lively conversations among older listeners about their experiences from back in the day.

Brother ShipsToba Ichirō

This is a masterpiece of enka that powerfully expresses the deep bond among fisherman brothers and their devotion to family.

Tetsurō Funamura’s grand melody blends with Tetsurō Hoshino’s moving lyrics, while Ichirō Toba’s rugged vocals bring out the work’s full appeal.

Because Ichirō Toba himself has real-life fishing experience, the pride and spirit of men of the sea come through vividly.

Released in August 1982, the song sold over 290,000 copies on the Oricon charts and won the Newcomer Award at the 16th All Japan Cable Broadcasting Awards.

It has also been performed seven times on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen, earning strong support from enka fans.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing and highly recommended for karaoke that stirs the heart.

[Nostalgic Songs] A collection of tear-jerking Japanese tracks recommended for men in their 70s (41–50)

Snow CountryYoshi Ikuzo

A masterpiece that sings of hope shining through the bitter cold, its bittersweet sense of life’s melancholy resonates deeply.

Yoshikazu Ikuzō’s vocals, tinged with sorrow yet brimming with strength, seep into the depths of the heart.

Released in 1986, it won the Gold Prize at the Japan Record Awards.

That same year, it appeared on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen and topped the Oricon charts—a work cherished by many.

Masterfully intertwining northern landscapes with the stirrings of love, this song was also used in regional tourism promotions and winter campaigns.

For many, it remains a treasured song of memories.

Why not spend a quiet moment listening to its heartwarming voice?

The Camellia Sasanqua InnŌkawa Eisaku

The biggest hit of Eisaku Okawa’s career.

It has sold over 1.8 million copies in total and reached No.

2 on the Oricon chart in 1983.

The lyrics, centered on the theme of an extramarital affair, are poignantly decadent, with symbolic expressions woven throughout.

Okawa’s richly emotive vocals vividly convey the complex feelings of a man and woman torn by a forbidden love.

A timeless masterpiece that resonates across generations.

Why not savor it alongside your cherished memories?