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

scarecrowsadamasashi

Scarecrow — Masashi Sada

This is a song that conveys feelings for one’s hometown, depicting the scenery of the Showa-era countryside with a quiet, gentle melody.

In Masashi Sada’s tender storytelling style, it likens thoughts for younger siblings living alone in the city to the figure of a scarecrow standing in the snow.

Released in November 1977, it is also included on albums such as “Watakushishu” and “Masashi Sada Best.” It’s a wonderful song that older listeners can find familiar, inviting everyone to sing together while fondly recalling family members living far away.

For recreation in care facilities, we hope people will enjoy it by clapping along slowly to the performance.

atonementTeresa Ten

Atonement

As a superb love song depicting a heartrending farewell, Teresa Teng’s voice resonates deeply with many listeners.

Vividly expressing the feelings of a woman who fears becoming a burden to the one she loves and chooses to abandon her own love for the sake of the other’s happiness, this work was released in January 1984.

It was also included on the album “Tsugunai” and used as a commercial song for YKK AP’s MADO Shop.

Coupled with Teresa Teng’s clear, crystalline vocals, it evokes profound emotion in the hearts of those who listen.

Love takes many forms, but as you recall the times when you searched for what you could do for someone precious to you, take a moment to heal your heart slowly.

This roadSakushi: Kitahara Hakushū / Sakkyoku: Yamada Kōsaku

This Road | With Lyrics | Radio Kayō (Radio Songs) | One Hundred Selected Japanese Songs | This is the road I once walked

This classic that portrays the beauty of Japan’s changing seasons is a masterpiece of lyrical song, with music by Kósçak Yamada set to a poem by Hakushū Kitahara.

Its bright, gentle melody and vividly scenic lyrics blend in perfect harmony.

The soothing, healing tone of the piece reminds us of the joy of singing.

Since its release in 1927 in a recording by Yoshie Fujiwara, it has continued to be loved by many.

It’s an ideal song for a music recreation activity everyone can enjoy together.

Why not spend a heartwarming moment sharing fond memories as you listen?

Northern SpringSen Masao

Spring in the Northern Country / Masao Sen (with lyrics)

It’s a classic song woven from nostalgic scenery and heartwarming melodies.

You can picture the springtime scenes of the northern country—snowmelt, white birches, and kobushi magnolia blossoms.

The protagonist’s longing for their hometown while living in the city is poignant.

Released in April 1977, it stayed on the hit charts for two and a half years.

For many older listeners, it may be a song full of memories.

Humming the lyrics while recalling your hometown and cherished people is a lovely idea.

It’s also great to listen to with family and friends.

You’ll enjoy a wonderful time wrapped in nostalgia and warmth.

Kanda RiverMinami Kōsetsu & Kaguyahime

Kandagawa / Minami Kosetsu and Kaguyahime (with lyrics)

A gem of a folk song that richly captures the emotions of youthful cohabitation.

Scenes like wearing a red tenugui as a scarf on the way to the public bath, or sketching a lover’s portrait with crayons, gently depict the modest yet warm lives of young people.

Released in September 1973 as a single cut from the July 1973 album “Kaguyahime Third,” the song went on to top the Oricon weekly singles chart for seven consecutive weeks that year, selling 1.6 million copies and becoming a massive hit.

Please take your time to savor the heartfelt vocals—whether as a nostalgic tune that brings back memories of the era, or as a song that evokes the atmosphere around the Kanda River and Asakusa.

Listening to OliviaAnri

Anri / Listening to Olivia [Official Video]

A melody that gently envelops the lingering ache of a bittersweet romance, paired with refined musicianship, resonates deeply in the heart.

The lyrics, which carefully depict a woman healing her delicate emotions after a breakup while listening to Olivia Newton-John’s songs, have struck a chord with many.

With Anri’s clear, translucent vocals giving the piece a sophisticated, urban feel, it was released in November 1978 and included on the album “Anri.” In 2008, it was also featured as an insert song in the Nippon TV drama “Saito-san,” cementing its status as a timeless classic loved across generations.

This warm ballad offers comfort to those trying to recover from the pain of heartbreak and to anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear.

Traveler,Kayama Yūzō

Yuzo Kayama – Tabibito yo

Yuzo Kayama’s “Tabibito yo” (Oh, Traveler) is a timeless masterpiece distinguished by its heartfelt lyrics and melody.

It delicately portrays the feelings of a young person who leaves their hometown and continues their journey, resonating with all of us walking the road of life.

Released in 1966 as an insert song for the film “Let’s Go! Wakadaisho,” its universal message remains as vivid as ever.

It’s a song that, while evoking the beauty of nature and the nostalgia of home, gives you the courage to keep moving toward your dreams.

At life’s turning points or before taking on new challenges, listening to this song can be uplifting.

It’s also wonderful to hum along with friends.