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

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.

A Good Day to Set Out on a JourneyYamaguchi Momoe

A Fine Day for a Journey / Momoe Yamaguchi – with lyrics – high-quality CD audio

This song, which sings of departure and hope, is a classic that resonates with many older listeners.

Momoe Yamaguchi’s gentle yet powerful voice gives listeners a push forward.

Released in November 1978, it was also used as a campaign song for Japan National Railways.

It is often performed at life’s milestones, such as graduation and weddings, and is loved across generations.

March brings the feeling of spring’s arrival.

In this season of new beginnings, why not listen to this song, bask in nostalgic memories, and feel hope for tomorrow?

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.

The Izu DancerMisora Hibari

The Izu Dancer

This is the song Hibari Misora sang as the theme for the 1954 film based on a novel by Yasunari Kawabata.

In the movie, Misora herself plays the lead role, and the wistful melody blends beautifully with her emotionally rich vocals to create a gem of a track.

Upon the film’s release, the song quickly became a major talking point, and Misora’s powerful yet delicate singing captivated many hearts.

As a classic that represents the Showa era, it’s sure to stir nostalgic memories of youth.

Why not reminisce about those days with friends who lived through the same era, listening together to Misora’s voice? You’re sure to enjoy a delightful time.

Anemone flaccida (nirinsō; literally “two-flowered anemone”)kawanaka miyuki

Nirinso / Miyuki Kawanaka with Lyrics

This is a warm song about the bond between husband and wife, with Miyuki Kawanaka’s emotionally rich vocals resonating deeply.

Using as its motif a plant where two flowers bloom side by side, it sings of the importance of caring for and supporting each other through life.

Combined with her gently enveloping voice, the piece is heartwarming, conveying deep love and connection.

Released in 1998, it became a major hit, with shipments surpassing one million copies.

At the 40th Japan Record Awards, it won both the Excellence Award and the Arrangement Award.

Featured five times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, this song has long been cherished in karaoke as a memorable tune for couples who have spent many years together.