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

Temptation of the Spring BreezeKoizumi Kyoko

Temptation of the Spring Breeze / Kyoko Koizumi (with lyrics) Cover

Under a sky where northern snow clouds drift by, a fresh melody echoes in the heart, hinting at the start of a new season.

Released by Kyoko Koizumi in February 1983, this masterpiece gracefully portrays the pure feelings of a girl eagerly awaiting love.

From atop a rooftop shimmering with heat haze, it delicately depicts the protagonist’s faint stirrings of love and her sense of anticipation as she watches spring’s arrival.

Also included on the album “Breezing,” the song became her first to break into the Oricon top 10.

While the girl sips tea by the window and watches people passing by, Mitsuo Hagita’s arrangement gently enfolds her emotions.

It’s a song best enjoyed on a calm spring day, while basking in nostalgia.

March of 365 StepsSuizenji Kiyoko

Kiyoko Suizenji - “365-Step March” (Official Audio)

This song has long been loved as an anthem of encouragement in life, carrying the message that taking one step at a time is important.

Since its release in November 1968, it has continued to resonate with many people.

Born during Japan’s period of rapid economic growth, the song is characterized by its cheerful melody and positive lyrics.

It has been used in films, TV commercials, anime, and many other contexts, and has been cherished by people of all ages.

How about humming along with older adults while being enveloped by Ms.

Suizenji’s warm singing voice? It will surely bring back fond memories and give you a boost of energy.

It’s okayHikawa Kiyoshi

Kiyoshi Hikawa / Daijoubu [Official]

Life brings various hardships and joys, and Kiyoshi Hikawa delivers a warm, gentle song that embraces them all.

Released in 2019, this work expresses the sadness and feelings of love that everyone experiences through his beautiful vocals.

Like the moon setting and the sun rising, its hopeful message—that tomorrow will surely come—resonates in the heart.

Also included on the album “Shin Enka Meikyoku Collection 9,” this piece is perfect for singing along at recreational gatherings.

Its friendly, singable melody and uplifting lyrics are part of its charm.

Hanjirō of the Hakone Eight RiHikawa Kiyoshi

Kiyoshi Hikawa / Hanzirō of Hakone Hachiri [Official]

This work fully conveys the appeal of a traditional traveling-swordsman enka.

Its lyrics delicately depict the loneliness, melancholy, and inner conflict of a drifter, and when combined with Kiyoshi Hikawa’s emotionally rich vocals, you can’t help but be drawn in.

The lone-wolf protagonist, sword in hand, is moved by the warmth of the people he meets in post towns and by his feelings for his mother—truly touching.

Released in February 2000, it became the first debut song in history to win the Grand Prize at the 33rd Japan Lyricist Awards.

It was also used in Taisho Pharmaceutical’s Tiovita Drink commercial.

This piece is recommended for older listeners who love enka.

It’s even more enjoyable when everyone claps along while singing.

A Letter from CanadaHirao Masayuki Hatanaka Yoko

A Letter from Canada

Known as one of the signature hit songs of the Showa era, this piece is a love song themed around a letter sent from Canada to a sweetheart.

The duet by Masao Hirao and Yoko Hatanaka is memorable, and after its release in January 1978, it became a major hit, reaching number one on the Oricon charts.

The gentle melody conveys the aching feelings for a lover far away, resonating deeply in the heart.

The lyrics, which evoke the beautiful scenery of Canada, are also captivating and leave a lasting impression on listeners.

For older adults, it’s a song to enjoy along with memories of their youth.

Why not hum it softly while thinking of someone dear to you?