[For Seniors in Their 80s] Recommended Summer Songs: From Enka and School Songs to Folk Songs

Festival MamboHibari Misora

Festival Mambo

A song themed around summer traditions, Omatsuri Mambo.

Hibari Misora’s 15-year-old voice vividly captures the lively atmosphere of a festival.

With a sprightly rhythm, it portrays a festival-loving Edoite and even sings of the loneliness that follows once the festivities end—making it a true classic.

Released on August 15, 1952, it became one of Hibari Misora’s signature songs.

Singing it together with older adults may bring back fond memories of summers past.

It’s also recommended to sing along while moving your body to the cheerful melody.

Summer Memoriessong

Summer Memories Natsunoomoide / Opening lyrics ♪ When summer comes, I remember / With easy-to-read lyrics [Japanese song Japanese traditional song]

Released shortly after the war, “Summer Memories” is a heartwarming school song that depicts the natural beauty of Oze.

It sings of scenes fondly recalled with the arrival of summer—flowers like skunk cabbage and rhododendron, and landscapes wrapped in mist.

The poetry by Shoko Ema and the music by Yoshinao Nakata match beautifully, stirring a deep sense of nostalgia in listeners.

For many years, this song has been sung in schools and at local events, beloved across generations.

How about softly humming it by the window on a quiet afternoon? It will surely bring back cherished memories of summers past.

seaMonbushō Shōka (Ministry of Education Songs)

Sea | with lyrics | Ministry of Education shoka (school song) | Where the distant pine groves fade

The Ministry of Education song “Umi” (The Sea) is one of the most famous pieces among Japanese children’s songs.

Its lyrics, which praise the grandeur and beauty of the sea, are evocative enough to conjure vivid images just by listening.

The melody is gentle yet somehow powerful, making it beloved by a wide range of generations, from children to adults.

“Umi” was released in 1941 and has been cherished ever since as a classic.

In addition to being included in elementary school music textbooks, it has been chosen for collections such as Japan’s 100 Noted Songs and as a sea song to preserve for the 21st century, reflecting its high educational value.

It’s also recommended for summer recreation—try singing it together with older adults; it may bring back fond memories.

Seagull Sailorsong

Seagull Sailor (Summer Children's Song)

Seagull Sailor is a refreshing children’s song that evokes the summer sea.

It depicts seagull sailors in white hats and uniforms swaying on the waves, and just listening to it brings seaside scenes to mind.

Its simple lyrics and familiar melody may stir a sense of nostalgia in older listeners.

How about singing it together while sharing summer memories? You’re sure to have a delightful time.

With many repeated lines, it’s easy to remember and easy for seniors to hum along to.

Coffee RumbaSachiko Nishida

Coffee Rumba — Sachiko Nishida

Sachiko Nishida’s “Coffee Rumba” is a classic that captivates listeners with its cheerful rhythm and unique lyrics.

The song tells the story of finding a new love through coffee and praises coffee as something that brings joy to life.

Released in 1960, it became a phenomenal hit and one of Nishida’s signature numbers.

It’s a song that reinvigorates a tired heart and makes you want to sing and dance—perfect for summer.

Enjoy it while indulging in nostalgic Showa-era memories.

The Hill Where Mandarin Orange Blossoms BloomMasako Kawada

The Hill Where Mandarin Orange Blossoms Bloom

Masako Kawada’s “Mikan no Hana Saku Oka” (“The Hill Where Mandarin Blossoms Bloom”) is a classic that evokes summers in the Showa era.

Its gentle lyrics, depicting the blue sea, islands, and memories with one’s mother, resonate deeply with listeners.

As a work symbolic of postwar Japan, it has long been cherished by many.

The song remains beloved across generations—ranking 6th on NHK’s “Songs of Japan You Choose: Hometown Songs,” among other honors.

For older listeners, it’s a piece that tenderly brings back fond memories.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s also perfect for humming along together.

Waltz of StarlightMasao Sen

Waltz of Starlight - Masao Sen

Masao Sen’s signature song, which portrays the bittersweet pain of parting, is a masterpiece that delicately captures the feelings of a man and woman who love each other yet cannot be together.

The protagonist’s anguish as he steps aside for the other’s happiness, and the decision born of deep love, resonate deeply.

Although this piece was originally the B-side of a single released in March 1966, through Sen’s steady promotional efforts it reached No.

1 on the Oricon year-end chart in 1968 and became a massive hit with total sales of 2.

5 million copies.

Its wistful waltz melody and soul-stirring vocals are sure to profoundly move listeners with rich life experience.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing together, wrapped in fond memories.