[Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that get everyone excited. Songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke.

North TavernHosokawa Takashi

North Tavern

Set in a northern country tavern, this heartwarming enka classic captures the very moment a romance begins.

It richly portrays everything from the fateful encounter in a bar district to the deepening of their relationship.

Takashi Hosokawa’s powerful yet delicate vocals brilliantly convey the thrill of a man whose heart leaps at a chance meeting in a tavern.

After its release in March 1982, the song became a huge hit when it was performed on the TV show “Kin-chan no Doko Made Yaru no?” That same year, it won the 24th Japan Record Award and was also performed on the 33rd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Blending a light, poppy melody with the emotive depth characteristic of enka in perfect balance, this piece is ideal for singing at a relaxed pace while soaking in the tavern’s atmosphere.

Why not try it as the perfect finale to a fun night out with friends?

What a nice bath.Za Dorifutāzu

Nice hot bath [The Drifters]

This is a song that celebrates the charms of hot spring resorts, beloved from the Showa-era hit TV program “It’s 8 o’clock! Everybody, Gather Round!” The original version, sung by the Duke Aces, was themed around hot spring areas in Gunma Prefecture, and The Drifters covered it on the B-side of their debut single.

The lyrics were adapted to feature hot spring resorts across Japan—such as Noboribetsu and Kusatsu—expressing fondness for onsen through a lively rhythm and call-and-response shouts.

The song was used as the ending theme for both “It’s 8 o’clock! Everybody, Gather Round!” and “Drifters’ Big Laughter,” and it also appeared in a 1969 film.

Humming it together with older adults while reminiscing about hot spring trips can make for a heartwarming moment.

Ladybug Sambacherisshu

Ladybug Samba Cherish 1973

Let me introduce a lovely song that captures the arrival of spring.

Its bright, buoyant rhythm and lyrics depicting tiny creatures celebrating a wedding are especially memorable.

Released in July 1973, it was a major hit, reaching No.

5 on the Oricon weekly chart.

It has long been cherished as a classic wedding song.

For many older listeners, it may also bring back fond memories.

It’s perfect when you want to savor the cheerful atmosphere of spring or lift your spirits.

If everyone sings and dances together, it’s sure to become a wonderful time filled with smiles.

Cotton HandkerchiefŌta Hiromi

Cotton Handkerchief (with lyrics) - Song by Hiromi Ohta

Let me introduce a heartwarming song that brings back nostalgic memories.

It tells a poignant story of a long-distance romance between a man setting off from the countryside to the big city and a woman who stays in their hometown.

The lyrics alternate between the man’s and the woman’s perspectives—a groundbreaking technique for its time.

Released in 1975, it became a signature song for Hiromi Ohta, who made her first appearance at the 26th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen that same year.

The woman’s longing for an unchanging heart rather than material gifts is especially memorable.

How about humming along with older listeners and sharing stories of youthful days? You’re sure to have a wonderful time.

Swim, Taiyaki-kunShimon Masato

Oyoge! Taiyaki-kun Lyrics and Music by Hiroo Takada, Toshikazu Sase

With lively, feel-good lyrics and melody, Masato Shimon’s bright vocals leave a strong impression.

The humorous world where fish-shaped sweets swim out into the sea makes this a heartwarming piece that brings a smile to everyone’s face.

Released in December 1975, it spent 11 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Oricon chart.

Broadcast on Fuji TV’s program “Hirake! Ponkikki,” it drew a huge response.

Its playful lyrics and brisk rhythm are delightful, and its easy sing-along appeal is a major charm.

It’s a perfect song for fun, cheerful recreational settings and group sing-alongs.

Add some handclaps and enjoy a pleasant time together.