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

Fallen leaves in the snowFuse Akira

Fallen leaves in the snow

Akira Fuse, whose powerful vocals have left many classic songs to the world, wrote both the lyrics and music for a 1976 piece that conveys introspective emotions through scenes of the season shifting from fallen leaves to snow.

Within a diary begun out of loneliness, it sketches a quiet worldview where one encounters another self.

Blending the simplicity of folk with the warmth characteristic of kayōkyoku, this work became widely known as the song for Suntory’s “Gold Label” commercial and reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart in 1976.

As winter’s chill seeps into the heart, why not listen while reflecting on your own memories and recollections?

The Sweet LifeNoguchi Goro

Goro Noguchi – Sweet Life

Goro Noguchi’s “Amai Seikatsu” (Sweet Life) is a hit released in 1974 that portrays the emotions of a cohabiting couple whose relationship falls apart.

Delicately expressing both the bittersweetness of youth and the harshness of reality, this song resonates across generations.

In particular, for those in their seventies, it may be a piece that brings back memories of youthful romance.

Please take some time to listen to it quietly on your own.

Tsugaru Jongara-bushiHosokawa Takashi

Tsugaru Jongara-bushi

This song is a full-fledged reinterpretation by Takashi Hosokawa of a folk tune that powerfully sings of the scenery and climate of the Tsugaru region.

With lyrics that conjure up images of local vistas like Mount Iwaki and apple orchards, the driving sound of the shamisen leaves a strong impression.

The distinctive melodic inflections, drawing on folk-music technique, convey pride and affection for the homeland.

It was included on the album “Bokyō” (Nostalgia), released in December 1978, and was also performed earlier that year, in January, on Fuji TV’s Night Hit Studio.

It’s a perfect track for reminiscing about your hometown while picturing Tsugaru’s winter landscapes.

Try clapping along to the shamisen’s rhythm, or sing along together with everyone.

Mischief of the spring breezeYamaguchi Momoe

Momoe Yamaguchi – Prank of the Spring Breeze

With lyrics that gently express a faint first love and a touch of heartache, paired with Momoe Yamaguchi’s pure singing voice, this masterpiece beautifully captures the wavering emotions of young women.

Released in March 1974, it was used as the theme song for the film “The Izu Dancer,” generating widespread attention.

Alongside the movie—where Yamaguchi’s appeal as an actress shines—the song has left a deep impression on many hearts.

It’s a recommended track for spending a peaceful moment in the warmth of spring or when you want to look back on nostalgic memories.

Let yourself go with the flow of timeTeresa Ten

Let yourself go with the flow of time

Teresa Teng, a treasure of Taiwan, sang “Toki no Nagare ni Mi wo Makase,” a smash hit from 1986.

Takashi Miki’s composition and Toyohisa Araki’s lyrics meld with Teng’s soul-stirring voice, leaving a deep imprint on many people’s memories.

It’s as if the lyrics speak directly of profound feelings for a loved one.

Listening to the song evokes the past while conveying a universal message that fits any era.

Above all, it’s a masterpiece cherished by countless artists around the world.

Even today, it reminds us—through music—of the joy of being alive.

A deserted seaTo wa e mo wa

♫ An empty beach — a Showa-era song. It's already autumn, an empty beach! With lyrics

A quietly sung piece set on an autumn seashore, reflecting on a lost love and facing one’s own future.

Released in November 1970 as a single by Towa Tei et Moi, it features lyrics by poet Yoko Yamaguchi and music by Noriyoshi Naitō.

The words—resolved not to grieve anymore because promises were made to the sea, the sand, and the sky—gently resonate in the heart.

On the same day, chanson singer Fubuki Koshiji also released a version, and on the Oricon charts the Towa et Moi version reached No.

16.

Its portrayal of someone striving to look ahead despite setbacks and loneliness is something many will relate to.

It’s a song that tenderly stays by your side—one you’ll want to listen to while gazing at the autumn sea.

The Bride of SetoKoyanagi Rumiko

The Bride of Seto

Seto no Hanayome, suffused with warmth and wistfulness like a harbinger of spring, is a work that richly preserves the spirit of the Showa era.

Delivered by Rumiko Koyanagi in 1972, this song gently yet powerfully gives voice to the feelings of a bride setting off to join her beloved.

The episodes that color a page of that time will add fresh hues to listeners’ memories.

Truly one of the Showa era’s unfading masterpieces.

As you listen, you can bask in the gentle spring sunlight, quietly look back on the past, and savor the present.