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

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.

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.

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.

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.