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

Life is full of ups and downs.Shimakura Chiyoko

Life is full of ups and downs.

Chiyoko Shimakura’s deeply moving classic “Jinsei Iroiro,” released in 1987, features warmly human lyrics that resonate with many people.

In 1988, it won the Best Vocal Performance at the 30th Japan Record Awards and surpassed 1.3 million in total sales.

The memory of Shimakura returning to the Kōhaku stage to perform the song comes back as vividly as if it were yesterday.

Chosen as the approach melody at Aomonoyokochō Station, among other places, its familiar tune is laced with both tears and hope, offering a fresh emotional experience every time you listen.

GraduationMatsuyama Chiharu

Graduation

With a gentle singing voice that warmly watches over new chapters in life, this spring melody has echoed across Hokkaido.

Chiharu Matsuyama’s beautiful ballad invites us to look back on our youthful days while filling us with hope for the future.

The soulful guitar tones and clear, soaring vocals are sure to bring back many memories.

Released in 1979, the song was created as the theme for STV’s program “Graduation at Kushiro High School.” It was also included on the album Seishun (Youth) and continues to be cherished as a classic folk song.

Why not spend a heartwarming time reminiscing together with older adults, letting nostalgic stories blossom?

Snow CountryYoshi Ikuzo

Snow Country by Ikuzo Yoshi

Ikuzo Yoshi’s “Yukiguni” is a masterpiece that skillfully portrays a bittersweet love and the snowy country’s scenery.

The feelings of a woman shedding tears alone on a cold winter night really touch the heart.

The repeated phrase “Oikakete, oikakete…” (Chasing, chasing…) is striking, and you can’t help but hum along.

Released in 1986, the song became a huge hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

It’s a landmark work that cemented Yoshi’s status as an enka singer.

It’s perfect for those cold seasons when you want to bask in nostalgia.

Sing it at karaoke with friends, and it’s sure to warm your hearts.

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.

era; age; time; periodNakajima Miyuki

Era - Live 2010–11 (from Tokyo International Forum Hall A)

March brings the feeling that spring has arrived.

Among Miyuki Nakajima’s songs, there is one that fits this season perfectly.

This piece sings of life’s joys and sorrows, of meetings and partings.

Released in 1975, it won the Grand Prix at the Popular Song Contest.

Its gentle melody and profound lyrics speak to the listener’s heart.

It has been featured at graduation ceremonies and in music textbooks, and is loved across generations.

It is also a familiar song for older adults.

Why not hum it together with your family and friends, along with nostalgic memories? It will surely warm your heart.

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.

Northern fishing groundsKitajima Saburō

Saburo Kitajima 'Northern Fishing Grounds' (Official Audio)

Saburo Kitajima’s “Kita no Gyoba” (“Northern Fishing Grounds”) is a masterpiece that powerfully gives voice to the feelings of fishermen.

The way they confront harsh nature is vividly portrayed through lyrics by Kaoru Shinjo.

Since its 1986 release, the song has remained beloved by many and even won the Japan Record Awards’ Best Vocal Performance.

It’s also a karaoke classic.

The pride and loneliness of men who live by the northern seas—and their passion for the ocean—resonate deeply.

Why not sing it with friends, along with your nostalgic memories? It’s sure to make for a moving and wonderful time.