[Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that really move you. Beloved classic Japanese hits of the past.

Flying to IstanbulShōno Mayoyo

Flying to Istanbul

A captivating song that beckons you into an exotic world with its dreamy melody and sophisticated, cosmopolitan lyrics.

Released in April 1978, it became one of Maya Shono’s signature works, selling 463,000 copies on the Oricon charts.

Though composer Kyohei Tsutsumi originally wrote it for Goro Noguchi, he decided it would suit a female vocalist better and offered it to Shono.

The arrangement features the Greek folk instrument bouzouki, adding to its exotic atmosphere.

The song portrays a woman setting off on a sentimental journey after a heartbreak, delicately expressing her resolve not to resent her former lover but to accept the experience as a cherished memory.

It’s a perfect choice to sing on a summer night at karaoke, accompanied by your own precious memories.

Longing for RainYashiro Aki

Aki Yashiro / Love in the Rain

This masterpiece, hailed as a monument of Showa-era enka, was released as a single in April 1980, born from the golden duo of lyricist Yu Aku and composer Keisuke Hama.

The lyrics poignantly capture the heartache of a woman after a breakup, seamlessly blending with a bright, rhythmic melody in exquisite balance.

Aki Yashiro’s sultry voice and distinctive phrasing are captivating, giving the song a familiar charm that anyone can hum along to.

The work won the 22nd Japan Record Award and was also featured in commercials for Vidal Sassoon and BOSS.

With its gentle, soothing atmosphere and memorable choreography, it’s a song that can be enjoyed while moving together with seniors.

It’s perfect for group recreation or karaoke, where everyone can sing and have fun together.

YosakuKitajima Saburō

This song celebrates the quiet life of a mountain village and the kindness of its people.

Its powerful melody and heartwarming story, which express Japan’s traditional values and an honest way of living, have moved many listeners.

Saburo Kitajima’s warmly human vocals leave an even deeper impression of that world.

Released in March 1978, the song has remained beloved across generations.

It’s a perfect piece for everyone to hum together during music time at care facilities or to liven up seasonal events.

It was rainy again in Nagasaki today.Uchiyamada Hiroshi to Cool Five

Nagasaki Was Rainy Again Today (High Quality) — Hiroshi Uchiyamada and the Cool Five

An inspiring ballad that paints the scene of Showa-era rain, Hiroshi Uchiyamada and the Cool Five’s “Nagasaki wa Kyou mo Ame Datta” (“It Was Raining Again in Nagasaki Today”).

Since its release in 1969, this melody has lingered in many hearts and has been loved across generations.

Its simple yet gripping lyrics seem to wash away the pain of heartbreak along with the teardrop rain.

The rhythm is soothing, wrapping listeners in warmth.

Kiyoshi Maekawa’s gentle vocals feel both nostalgic and fresh—perhaps a secret to its broad appeal across ages.

It quietly stays close to the heart and heals.

Truly a classic perfect for a rainy day.

When I turn around, the Sea of JapanItsuki Hiroshi

If I Turn Around, the Sea of Japan – Hiroshi Itsuki

A gem of a song that portrays a person who, despite inner confusion and loneliness, still strives to face forward, set against the desolate winter scenery of the Sea of Japan.

Released in March 2005, this work features lyrics by Hiroshi Itsuki and novelist Hiroyuki Itsuki, from whom the singer’s stage name is derived.

Hiroshi Itsuki’s emotionally rich vocals harmonize beautifully with sentiments of longing for one’s hometown and the resolve not to forget past love, earning the song 14th place on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It was also performed at the 56th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, and the album “Hiroyuki Itsuki & Hiroshi Itsuki Song Collection ~If You Look Back, the Sea of Japan~” was released.

It is a song that offers comfort to those living away from their hometowns, inviting listeners to reflect on the places of their memories.

Tangled HairMisora Hibari

#Hibari Misora '#Disheveled Hair' #Shioyasaki Lighthouse Shioyamisaki

As her comeback release, Hibari Misora brought out this celebrated song of profound love and sorrow in December 1987.

Set against the backdrop of the Shioyasaki Lighthouse, it sings of unwavering feelings and prayers for someone who has gone away.

Carried by an elegant melody, it masterfully conveys the complex emotions of a woman heartbroken in love.

Recorded in a single take with a full orchestra, the session showcased Hibari Misora’s unparalleled vocal prowess.

It remains a treasured piece, long beloved by many as a song to be heard alongside cherished memories and landscapes.

Like the flow of a riverMisora Hibari

Like the Flow of the River Live | Hibari Misora

This is a memorable piece featuring a voice that gently reflects on life amid the passing seasons.

Like surrendering to the flow of a river, it conveys the importance of embracing both the joys and sorrows of life.

Released by Nippon Columbia in January 1989, the song was written by Yasushi Akimoto and composed by Masao Hirao.

It resonated with many people, earning the Gold Prize at the Japan Record Awards.

It’s a song that stays close to you when you want to calm your heart and gather your thoughts, or when you sense a turning point in life.

Blending nostalgic memories with a sense of hope for the future, it’s a heartwarming piece.