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

Boat SongYashiro Aki

Boat Song Aki Yashiro

When the winter cold grows sharper, you can’t help but want to spend some quietly reflective time in a warm room.

A song that truly seeps into the heart in such a season is Aki Yashiro’s classic “Funauta” (Boat Song).

Released as a single in May 1979, it paints an adult scene of quietly enjoying a drink at a tavern in a port town.

It’s also well known for being played in the 1981 film “Station,” and many older viewers likely still remember the poignant scene it accompanied.

Its wistful melody has a mysterious power that seems to warm you from the core, even when you’re chilled.

Gather together over some hot tea and reminisce about memories of the Kōhaku Uta Gassen from those days.

Goodbyeofukōsu

Goodbye Off Course with lyrics

A classic ballad that intertwines the emotions of two people sensing a breakup with an atmosphere that evokes the coming of winter.

Known as a signature work by the popular band Off Course, it was released as a single in December 1979.

It reached No.

2 on the Oricon chart at the time, and was also used as the theme for the TBS drama “Gekiai: Sangatsu made no…” and in a Daihatsu commercial.

The sorrow of a love nearing its end is beautifully wrapped in Kazumasa Oda’s clear, translucent vocals.

Despite the sad lyrics, listening to it somehow calms the heart and brings a sense of peace, doesn’t it? It might be lovely to sip some warm tea and let conversation blossom with bittersweet memories of youth.

Forget-me-not to youSugawara Yoichi

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

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?

If you’re happy and you know it, clap your handsSakamoto Kyu

Kyu Sakamoto / If You’re Happy and You Know It (1964–65)

This is a song that lets you share the joy of connecting with others, carried by a simple, friendly melody.

Released by Kyu Sakamoto in 1964, this piece stands alongside “Ue o Muite Arukō (Sukiyaki)” as one of his signature works.

Based on an American folk tune, it features Japanese lyrics penned by Toshihito Kimura, who infused them with wishes for peace and friendship.

The song has been widely used in films and commercials and has long been cherished in educational settings.

Why not hum along and let it spark a lively trip down memory lane?

I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu

Sukiyaki

A signature song by Kyu Sakamoto that remains beloved by many as a major Showa-era hit.

Its positive message and heartwarming vocals resonate with people in their 70s.

Released in 1961, the song achieved great success not only in Japan but also overseas, reaching No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming Japan’s first global million-seller.

How about enjoying a pleasant moment by singing it together with friends, acquaintances, or family?

RomanceIwasaki Hiromi

Romance

Romance, in which Hiromi Iwasaki’s sweet voice weaves together heartache and passion, is a masterpiece that will surely resonate even with those who have grown older.

Nearly half a century after its 1975 release, its lyrics and melody remain unfaded, and with her overwhelming vocal power, she expresses straightforward feelings for a loved one.

Kyōhei Tsutsumi’s stylish arrangement matches Iwasaki’s vocals beautifully, doesn’t it? It’s perfect for listening alone at a leisurely pace while basking in memories, and also highly recommended for belting out to your heart’s content with friends at karaoke.

There’s always tomorrowSakamoto Kyu

Ashita Ga Arusa

Kyu Sakamoto’s classic songs bring energy and courage to listeners’ hearts.

This piece is a major Japanese hit released in 1963.

With lyrics by Yukio Aoshima and music by Hachidai Nakamura, it has been loved by many for its comical lyrics and cheerful melody.

In 2000, it was featured as the commercial song for GEORGIA canned coffee by Coca-Cola Japan, drawing renewed attention.

It’s a song that encourages us to keep looking forward and conveys the importance of holding on to hope at all times.