Recommended Summer Songs for People in Their 70s: A Collection of Nostalgic Summer Tunes [2026]

Beach of MemoriesZa Wairudowanzu

Omoide No Nagisa

“Omoide no Nagisa” was released in November 1966 and became a classic of Japan’s Group Sounds, symbolizing summer with sales exceeding one million copies.

The Wild Ones’ poignant yet beautiful vocals and the sound of a 12-string guitar vividly evoke memories of the summer seaside and a lost love, captivating fans ever since.

It’s a song that resonates pleasantly not only under the summer sun, but also on a nighttime drive when you find yourself thinking of someone special.

Alongside nostalgic summer memories, it remains a timeless classic loved forever.

Memories of a Summer DayHino Teruko

Memories of a Summer Day — Teruko Hino

An inspiring classic by Teruko Hino, perfect for listening while recalling the face of someone dear from the past.

Carried by her clear, gentle voice, the melody—set against a wintry seaside—stirs the heart as it looks back on warm memories with a former lover.

Reflecting on the passage of time, the lyrics delicately weave a tender yet beautiful longing that is sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

Since its release in 1965, this song has not only been cherished for many years but also became the pivotal piece that led to Hino’s first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

On a winter’s day, if you listen to this song while gazing alone at the night sea, the bittersweet memories of a distant love will surely come flooding back.

You may find yourself recalling the smile of that special person, with your eyes growing warm.

Summer Unfolds YouthYamaguchi Momoe

Momoe Yamaguchi - Youth Opening in Summer

When it comes to Momoe Yamaguchi’s classic summer song that captures the bittersweet, slightly precocious feelings of a 16-year-old girl in love, many people are sure to recall it.

Beyond the poetic image of a budding romance blooming in summer, its mature worldview—portraying a poignant farewell within an equal relationship—is truly captivating.

Released in June 1975 as her ninth single, many may remember her performing it at that year’s 26th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It was later included on the album “Sasayakana Yokubō.” When you want to bask in sparkling summer memories while savoring a touch of bittersweetness, this song will gently stay by your side.

Season of LovePinkī to Kirāzu

Season of Love

This song is memorable for its lyrics that portray a bittersweet love and for its period-specific melody.

The lyrics were written by Tokiko Iwatani and the music composed by Taku Izumi, drawing inspiration from experiences in a café in Paris, France, as well as stories from the younger days of Fubuki Koshiji.

Released as a single in 1968, it became an instant hit, ranking high on many music charts.

Even decades after its release, it continues to be covered and used in films and commercials.

In particular, the striking phrases scattered throughout the lyrics, which symbolize a love that has ended, are rendered with a fresh, distinctly feminine sensibility, making this the perfect song for moments of reminiscence.

This classic has accompanied the youth of those now in their seventies—please enjoy it once more as you indulge in your memories.

summer vacationyoshida takurou

summer vacation

When the summer sun pours down, don’t you find that memories sleeping deep in your heart suddenly come back to life? The scenes of summer vacation you were absorbed in as a child, the warm smiles of the people you spent it with… Takuro Yoshida’s work gently embraces those fragile yet dear memories—a perfect classic for summer.

Released in 1972 and issued as a single from the album “Genki Desu,” this song has been covered by many artists, including Kaori Sakaue and Kosetsu Minami, and remains a timeless masterpiece loved across generations.

Surrender yourself to its gently flowing melody, and that summer of long ago will vividly return.

Sing it with someone special, and you’re sure to create wonderful new memories.

Tears That Vanished into the SandHirota Mieko

Tears That Vanished into the Sand

A bittersweet love classic that brings back memories of summer.

It’s one of the signature songs of Japan’s pop queen, Mieko Hirota.

The image of a woman, bathed in the blue light of the moon, burying a token of love in the seaside sand is unforgettable.

The mourning for lost love and the tender sense of a new beginning resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in December 1964, this song is a cover of an Italian piece, with Japanese lyrics written by Kenji Sazanami.

The lyrics quietly yet profoundly trace the movement of emotion, perfectly matched by Hirota’s richly expressive voice.

Why not spend a moment gazing at the sea and recalling a cherished romance?

Sugarcane fieldMoriyama Ryoko

Ryoko Moriyama “Sugarcane Field” (from ‘Concert Tour 2007–2008’)

This song begins with the image of sugarcane fields swaying in the wind.

It expresses the sorrow of losing a loved one to war through a gentle, heartrending vocal delivery.

Recorded by Ryoko Moriyama in 1969 and included on her album “Ryoko Moriyama College Folk Album No.

2,” the piece moved audiences across generations when she performed it with her son, Naotaro Moriyama, at the 56th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2005.

Its lyrics, imbued with a wish for peace, are sure to resonate with many.

Why not hum along, filled with cherished memories and thoughts of someone dear?