[Spring Songs Born in the Showa Era] A Curated Selection of Kayōkyoku That Colored the Times and Timeless Classics Still Sung Today
When the first reports of cherry blossoms start to arrive, is there a melody you find yourself humming without thinking?Spring is a season of meetings and partings, and also the time when many masterpieces were born.In the Shōwa era, songs that colored spring were delivered without cease—from the lyrical prewar pieces, to the energetic kayōkyoku of the high-growth years, and on to dazzling pops.Nostalgic spring songs from Shōwa continue to resonate in many hearts across generations even today.In this article, we introduce a wide range of springtime songs born in the Shōwa period, from kayōkyoku that capture the spirit of their times to timeless gems still sung today.Please enjoy them as you picture the scenes from back then!
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[Spring Songs Born in the Showa Era] Carefully Selected Kayokyoku That Colored the Times & Timeless Classics Still Sung Today (71–80)
Harusaki KobeniYano Akiko
It was Akiko Yano’s fifth single, released in February 1981.
Created with full support from YMO, the technopop unit that was a massive sensation at the time, it’s like a pioneering track in Japan’s “techno kayō” style.
It was also used in a Kanebo Cosmetics commercial.
Because the word “Kobeni” in the title and lyrics can sound like “Kobe ni” (“to Kobe”), many people assumed it was the theme song for Portopia ’81, held in Kobe that same year, but it was apparently completely unrelated.
The bright melody and lyrics are a perfect match for Akiko Yano’s uniquely sunny voice, and just listening to it makes you feel a cheerful, fun spring… it’s that kind of song.
It might be fun to sing it while doing a little Akiko Yano imitation, too!
Graduation -GRADUATION-Kikuchi Momoko
“Graduation -GRADUATION-,” released by Momoko Kikuchi on February 27, 1985, is a classic spring song from the Showa era.
Boosted by the synergy with the TV drama of the same name in which she starred, it reached number one on the Oricon charts.
The lyrics beautifully weave together a fresh feeling, as if led by the spring breeze, with the bittersweetness of graduation as a turning point.
It continues to be loved without fading, remaining a memorable song both for those who look back on their school days and for younger generations welcoming a new spring.
As spring arrives, why not listen to this emotionally rich melody and let it wash over you with a calm heart and an overflow of memories?
hometownshouka
Blue mountains, pure waters, and memories of childhood play.
The gentle melody that wraps these scenes of a beloved hometown, along with feelings for family and friends living far away, holds a universal appeal that resonates with everyone.
First published in 1914 as a Ministry of Education school song, this piece was created by Tatsuyuki Takano and Teiichi Okano, vividly reflecting the rural landscapes and lifestyles of Japan at the time.
It was sung at the closing ceremony of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, moving countless people.
Its simple, memorable melody in G major and triple meter continues to be sung at life’s milestones, such as graduation and coming-of-age ceremonies.
With lyrics and melody that evoke nostalgia, it is truly a song that stands by all who live away from their hometowns—a work that can be said to symbolize the heart of Japan.
[Spring Songs Born in the Showa Era] Carefully Selected Kayōkyoku That Colored the Times & Timeless Classics Still Sung Today (81–90)
The arrival of springKoyanagi Rumiko
Rumiko Koyanagi’s Showa-era classic album “Haru no Otozure” (The Coming of Spring), released in 1973, features a bittersweet yet heartwarming masterpiece that colors the spring season.
The song tells the story of a young girl who invites her boyfriend to her home for the first time, evoking feelings of happiness and hope for the future through her interactions with her parents.
In particular, the depiction of her father and boyfriend chatting happily is charming, and the joy she feels comes through to the listener.
Immerse yourself in this song that conveys the warm, sunny mood of spring and an atmosphere of happiness.
Temptation of the Spring BreezeKoizumi Kyoko
Although she debuted as an idol singer among the so-called “Flower 1982 Generation,” Kyoko Koizumi—known as Kyon Kyon—has maintained enduring popularity as a one-of-a-kind presence thanks to her distinct individuality and sensibility.
This is an early classic she released in 1983.
On the single’s jacket you can see Koizumi sporting the then-trendy ‘Seiko-chan cut,’ but after the release she chopped her hair into a short cut.
Considering that she then had her true breakthrough with the next single, ‘Makkana Onna no Ko,’ this might be considered her last song in the 1970s-style idol vein.
The song itself has the feel of quintessential Showa-era idol pop, charmingly expressing the feelings of a girl who, with the arrival of spring, begins to yearn for a slightly more grown-up romance.
Be sure to check out this fresh, early spring song from Kyon Kyon—it’s a different flavor from numbers like ‘Adesugata Namida Musume’ and ‘Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge.’
Red Sweet PeaMatsuda Seiko
This was Seiko Matsuda’s eighth single, released in January 1982, back when she was a major idol of the Showa era.
Composed by Yumi Matsutoya and arranged by Masataka Matsutoya, it’s a classic from the Showa period created with the full support of the Matsutoya couple.
The gentle melody and tone evoke the soft sunshine of spring, and Seiko Matsuda’s bright vocals warm the listener’s heart.
It’s a masterpiece that conjures images of sweet peas basking in spring sunlight just by listening—please enjoy it!
Happy HinamatsuriKawamura Junko
The gentle expressions of the Hina dolls illuminated by paper lanterns.
As the scent of peach blossoms drifts through the air, the music of the five court musicians resonates.
Junko Kawamura’s singing conjures up just such a scene.
Released in 1936, this song is a classic that celebrates Hinamatsuri, the traditional Japanese festival that heralds the arrival of spring.
With lyrics by Hachirō Satō, it carries wishes for family bonds and the healthy growth of girls, warming the hearts of those who listen.
It’s included on the albums “Junko Kawamura: A Journey Through Children’s Songs I” and “Junko Kawamura: A Journey Through Children’s Songs II,” so why not give it a listen with the coming of spring?