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

Across this wide fieldMoriyama Ryoko

Across this wide field

This song, which marked Ryoko Moriyama’s debut, is a moving classic that sings of the beauty of vast, unspoiled nature.

It expresses pure, selfless love through a desire to offer a field full of flowers, a night sky full of stars, and a sea full of boats to someone dear.

Released in January 1967, the piece resonated with many people and was even included in music textbooks.

In 2000, it was featured as the ending theme of the game “Boku no Natsuyasumi,” and it continues to be cherished across generations.

It’s a song that delivers an even deeper emotional impact when you listen while thinking of someone special.

As time goes bysawada kenji

As Time Goes By — Kenji Sawada

This is the theme song from the 1975 drama “Akuma no Yōna Aitsu,” starring Kenji Sawada.

Those who watched the series at the time may find it nostalgic.

The song portrays a deep sense of life’s melancholy and the quiet act of surrendering to the flow of time together with a loved one.

When you want to push forward but your heart can’t keep up, its melody doesn’t force encouragement; instead, it gently stays by your side—a tune that truly resonates.

Listening to this piece while reflecting on the days you’ve walked through would be wonderful.

Isn’t it fine as long as you’re happy?Sara Naomi

Isn't it fine as long as you're happy?

Naomi Sagara’s signature works are known for a warm singing voice that gently resonates with many listeners.

This piece is a classic that sings about the importance of cherishing one’s own happiness.

Released in July 1969, it won the Grand Prize at that year’s Japan Record Awards—the first time a female singer achieved this honor.

Tokiko Iwatani’s lyrics and Taku Izumi’s composition blend beautifully, striking a chord with a wide audience.

One of its charms is that it has been covered by various artists, including Nana Kinomi and Keisuke Kuwata.

If you listen while reflecting on your own life, you may sense a different flavor to it.

Why not spend a leisurely moment wrapped in its heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody?

Album of MemoriesSakushi: Masuko Toshi / Sakkyoku: Honda Tetsuma

Memory Album / Opening lyrics: ♪ Before we knew it / With easy-to-read lyrics / [Children’s Song]

Evoking a hint of spring, this song gently recounts memories from kindergarten.

It paints scenes from the changing seasons, bringing a sense of nostalgia and warmth to listeners.

Since its release in 1961, it has continued to be loved by many.

It has been featured on TV Asahi’s children’s program “Tobidase! Panpororin” and NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” making it familiar across generations.

It’s also lovely for seniors to hum along with their grandchildren.

A wonderful piece that can be enjoyed across generations while reminiscing about the past.

Miracle of LoveHide to Rozanna

Miracle of Love

With their gentle, soul-soothing vocals, Hide and Rosanna have healed the hearts of many.

Released in 1968 as their debut single, this song initially drew little attention, but its popularity surged a few months later.

It ultimately became a massive hit, selling over 800,000 copies.

The lyrics, which express deep love for a former partner even after parting ways, resonated with countless listeners and continue to be cherished across generations.

The song paints bittersweet yet beautiful scenes—nostalgia for the profile of a lover walking alone at twilight, and the hope of being loved once again someday.

It’s a perfect track for when you want to bask in fond memories or reaffirm your feelings for someone dear.

Flowershouka

Hana | With Lyrics | 100 Selected Japanese Songs | In the gentle springtime, the Sumida River

Among the masterpieces that represent the Meiji era is a celebrated song depicting the beautiful spring scenery of the Sumida River: brilliant cherry blossoms along the long embankment, boatmen rowing their oars, and green willows and a hazy moon glowing at dusk.

It is a school song that gracefully expresses the changing seasons of Japan.

Composed by Rentaro Taki with lyrics by Hago Takajima, the piece was included on the album “Shiki” (Four Seasons), released in November 1900.

It was selected in 2006 for the Agency for Cultural Affairs’ “100 Best Japanese Songs,” and in April 1962 The Peanuts performed it on the program “Minna no Uta.” Its melody, resonant with nostalgia, is familiar and accessible to older listeners as well, and is a perfect choice for a leisurely spring afternoon.

Forever with youKayama Yūzō

EXILE ATSUSHI / With You Forever with Yuzo Kayama (EXILE ATSUSHI LIVE TOUR 2016 “IT’S SHOW TIME!!”)

Yuzo Kayama’s signature song “Kimi to Itsumademo,” released in 1965.

It was performed on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen an impressive four times, and it remains an eternal classic continually covered by various artists.

The lyrics build upon a straightforward desire to stay by someone’s side unchanged, gently resonating with people in their seventies.

The instrumental version, familiar from Suntory’s commercials, also brings a calm, peaceful moment to the heart.

A nostalgic Showa-era song that still captivates us with undiminished charm even today—“Kimi to Itsumademo” conveys that kind of warm, enduring power.