Classic Japanese songs I want to listen to leisurely on the weekend

Crescent ○○Hirahara Ayaka

Mikazuki Marumaru

This is a song written and composed by Ryota Fujimaki that brims with the warm charm of Ayaka Hirahara.

Its glittering, sun-dappled spring sound is layered with her expansive, embracing vocals, gently enfolding the listener’s heart.

You can almost see the scene of looking up at a crescent moon swaying in the sky after the rain, reminiscing about cherished days with someone dear.

Junichi Soga’s acoustic arrangement and the innocent chorus of children further highlight the sense of hope for the future and comfort.

This piece is included on the album “Love 2,” released in April 2017.

It’s a song that will surely warm your heart when you listen to it during peaceful moments with someone special or when taking a new step forward.

Sundayback number

back number – Sunday (full)

This song by back number reminds us that spending a calm, ordinary day off with a loved one is the greatest treasure of all.

It sings that true happiness in life comes not from social success or status, but from having someone important by your side.

This heartwarming piece was released in May 2012 as their fifth single and became widely known as the theme song for the drama “Soup Curry.” Happiness is often hidden in everyday routines we take for granted.

Why not listen to this song and rediscover the warmth of the person right next to you?

LOTUSŌhashi Torio

Ohashi Trio / LOTUS (Music Video)

This is a work by ohashiTrio, whose fantastical synthesizer tones lead listeners into another dimension.

After a quiet, gentle introduction, tight drums and a groovy band sound intertwine, pulling you headlong into the depths of the city night.

Lyricist micca weaves decadent, poetic images—worn back alleys and skinny cats—that feel like watching a single film.

Over the course of more than five minutes, jazz, rock, and soul blend naturally, gripping the listener’s heart and never letting go.

This track is the lead song from the 14th album, “This is music too,” released in February 2020.

On a night when you want to forget the everyday and immerse yourself fully in the world of music, this is one to press play on.

Et ceteraŌhashi Torio

Et cetera

A medium-tempo song by Ohashi Trio where thrilling strings intersect with intricately woven instrumental melodies.

It was pre-released in October 2024 and later included on his 16th album, “GOLD HOUR.” The lyrics by Kazunori Ichikawa of Youmou to Ohana capture universal emotions and subtle shifts of the heart found amid everyday change.

Elegant piano and gentle guitar tones perfectly complement the song’s delicate worldview.

It’s the kind of track that will gently wrap you in its calm melodies when you want to step away from daily clamor and settle your mind—an ideal piece for quiet moments of self-reflection.

weeklynishina

nishina – weekly [Official Video]

The single “weekly,” released in April 2025, is a gem of a pop tune that showcases Nishina’s musical talent.

Its soothing melody line and addictive vocals blend in exquisite balance to paint a gentle sonic world.

The bright tones of the horn section are downright exhilarating.

I think it’s perfect for a calm, leisurely afternoon on a day off.

Indoor1001

Indoor

A supreme pop tune by 1001 (One Thousand One), woven from groovy beats and a languid melody.

This song, which celebrates the importance of taking time to face yourself, is perfect for a relaxing weekend.

Released in April 2023, it marks their seventh single.

The duo 1001—Ryo and Yuto, based in Tokyo and Yokohama—deliver crystal-clear vocals and a catchy melody that resonate pleasantly.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to spend a calm day at home or cherish time for self-reflection.

May it be filled with kindnessFlower

Flower “So That It Overflows With Kindness” [Movie “Evergreen Love (A Herb Book): I Picked Up a Fateful Love” Theme Song ver.]

It’s the theme song of the movie “Evergreen Love” (Shokubutsu Zukan).

The music video is bittersweet, yet somehow gentle and heartwarming.

The song was originally by JUJU, and her version is wonderful too, so I hope you’ll listen to both.