[For Seniors] Classic spring songs to sing in April: A heartwarming moment with nostalgic children’s songs and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs)

Spring has come.Sakushi: Takano Tatsuyuki / Sakkyoku: Okano Teiichi

Spring has come.

This is a children’s song that straightforwardly depicts the arrival of spring and the changing landscape.

Selected in 2007 as one of Japan’s 100 Best Songs, it could be said to symbolize spring in Japan.

It portrays sensing spring through the various scenes unfolding before one’s eyes, conveying a sense of uplift as well.

The gradually ascending scale and the lightness of repeated phrases seem to emphasize the joy of spring.

It’s the kind of warm, heartening piece that makes you want to sing when you feel the coming of spring.

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kappamaki

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Sakura, sakuraNihon koyō

~Sakura Sakura~ NHK Tokyo Children’s Choir

A traditional springtime song that has been passed down in Japan since long ago, its composer is unknown and it is said to have existed since the Edo period.

While it is strongly associated with being a song for the koto, it is used in many contexts as a piece that symbolizes spring.

With a gentle, unhurried melody that treats each note with care, it evokes springtime scenes of cherry blossoms in bloom.

Its short lyrics are also a major feature; precisely because they are brief, each word is cherished, allowing the scenery to be vividly imagined.

It is a charming song to sing with a tender heart, as if celebrating the arrival of spring.

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kappamaki

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A Good Day to Set Out on a JourneyYamaguchi Momoe

A Fine Day for a Journey / Momoe Yamaguchi – with lyrics – high-quality CD audio

The melody spun by Momoe Yamaguchi as a song for a journey filled with nostalgic memories remains a timeless classic that still touches the heart.

Her gentle yet faintly wistful voice carries the courage and resolve to take a new step in life.

With lyrics overflowing with farewells to one’s hometown and family, and with hope and expectation for the future, it’s a song anyone can relate to.

Released in November 1978, this work was created as a campaign song for the then Japanese National Railways and became a massive hit, selling over one million copies.

It is often sung at life’s milestones, such as graduation and weddings, and continues to be loved across generations.

It’s a perfect song to sing together as we look back on our memories in the warm spring air.

The Flower Girl of TokyoHaruo Oka

Haruo Oka / The Flower-Selling Girl of Tokyo (sung by the artist himself)

As a song with a modern vibe, “Tokyo no Hanauri Musume” (The Flower-Selling Girl of Tokyo) is also recommended.

It’s a track released in 1946 by Haruo Oka.

The lyrics portray the streets of Tokyo at the time and a woman walking around selling flowers.

For those unfamiliar with Tokyo back then, it can be a chance to feel its history.

It’s also perfect for listening together and reminiscing about those days.

And since it’s a rhythmic song, it works well as background music for recreational activities or paired with dance.

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yamamoto

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Over the hillFujiyama Ichirō

Over the hill

The classic Showa-era song “Over the Hill,” sung with refined elegance by Ichiro Fujiyama, conveys a message full of hope.

Its lyrics, celebrating the brilliance of youth, are sure to resonate with older listeners.

Released in 1931 as the theme song for the film “Sister,” it became a huge hit, selling over 500,000 copies.

Set against the backdrop of rich natural scenery and depicting a forward-looking stride, it may give you the courage to take a new step.

How about humming along at a relaxed tempo? You’re likely to enjoy a delightful time while reminiscing about fond memories.