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

The Young Boss of HawaiiYuzo Kayama

Young Boss of Hawaii (Original Movie Version) / Yuzo Kayama

Just hearing the lively guitar in the intro instantly conjures up the blue seas of Hawaii—the mark of a classic brimming with a tropical vibe! Written for a film series starring Yuzo Kayama, the movie was released in August 1963.

Its bright, hopeful melody calls to mind a young man cutting swiftly through the waves on a yacht.

It also served as the theme song for the series’ first film shot on location overseas, and you can feel those once-dreamed-of landscapes coming through the music.

It’s perfect for lifting your spirits, and also for sharing fond memories of fun summer days with your family.

BoyhoodYosui Inoue

Boys' Time / Yosui Inoue (with lyrics)

In Inoue Yosui’s classic song, a gentle yet resonant melody intertwines with nostalgic lyrics, suffused with reflections on youth.

Idyllic summer scenes and memories alive in the mind are spun into poetic expression, tenderly enveloping those treasured moments we keep safe in our hearts.

Since its release in September 1990, it has continued to be loved as a movie theme and a commercial song, and in 1991 it was also used in a Sony Handycam commercial.

Included on the album “Handsome Boy,” this is a tune you’ll want to hum when everyone gathers together.

Why not spend a heartwarming moment as you share stories and let memories blossom?

coconutLyrics by: Toson Shimazaki / Music by: Toraji Onaka

Coconut (♪ From a distant island whose name I do not know ~) by Himawari 🌻 With Lyrics [One Hundred Selected Japanese Songs]

This is one of Japan’s representative art songs: a poem written in 1898 by the renowned poet Shimazaki Tōson, set to a beautiful melody by Toraji Ōnaka.

Centered on the theme of a coconut that drifted ashore from a distant southern island, the piece delicately portrays feelings for one’s hometown and the journey of life.

Completed as a song in 1936, it has been passed down through performances by many singers, including Ichirō Fujiyama and Hibari Misora.

Its gentle, lyrical melody is widely beloved in schools and choral activities.

With lyrics rich in imagery that evoke a summery seaside and a moving, beautiful melody, it is recommended as a song that can awaken fond memories among older listeners.

Look up at the stars in the nightKyu Sakamoto

Kyu Sakamoto – Look Up at the Stars in the Night (with lyrics)

Beloved as a song for gazing up at the night sky, this piece resonates as a warm cheer for those facing hardships.

With lyrics by Rokusuke Ei and music by Taku Izumi, it has long been cherished in the enveloping voice of Kyu Sakamoto.

Released as a single in May 1963, it was originally written as the theme song for a musical.

It is also a celebrated masterpiece that won the Japan Record Award for Composition.

Though born as a message of encouragement for young people studying at night school, it is a song that transcends generations to bring hope and courage.

It’s perfect for everyone to sing together during recreation time at the facility.

Tokyo Ondofolk song

Tokyo Ondo - With Guide [Let’s Dance Together! Bon Odori]

Born in 1933 (Showa 8), this is a classic Bon Odori song that represents Japan.

Its lyrics charmingly sing about Tokyo’s famous spots—like the flowers of Ueno and the willows of Ginza—and its light, friendly melody is very appealing.

The rhythm incorporates the flavor of Kagoshima’s folk song “Ohara-bushi,” making it beloved across generations.

Created by Yaso Saijo and Shinpei Nakayama, it was performed by Katsutaro Kouta and Issei Mishima.

Premiered at a Bon Odori festival held in Hibiya Park, it has long resonated with people as a symbol of Tokyo’s recovery and community revitalization.

Filled with nostalgia and perfect for moving your body with joy, this Bon Odori standard is an ideal choice for summer recreation.

Mount Fuji (Fujinoyama)

Mount Fuji (Fuji no Yama) 🗻 (♪ With its head above the clouds~) by Himawari 🌻×3 with lyrics | Ministry of Education Song [100 Selected Japanese Songs] | Fuji Mountain

This is a song of praise for a beautiful mountain beloved as a symbol of Japan, released in July 1910 as a Ministry of Education school song.

With its concise lyrics and distinctive melody, it has continued to be cherished across generations.

It is often sung on July 1, the opening day of the mountain-climbing season, and is a memorable piece that evokes the feeling of summer.

Treasured in school music education and community cultural activities, this work embodies respect for Japanese tradition and nature, and is surely a familiar, nostalgic song for older adults as well.

It’s perfect for a relaxed recreational moment to enjoy singing while reminiscing about the past through a nostalgic school song.

A quiet lakeside

Quiet Lakeside [Children’s Song] Vocals, Chorus, and Performance by akiurara [Pop-style Arrangement] With Lyrics | With Romaji | Shizukana kohan (cover) DTM/DAW

This is a charming piece with a simple, natural atmosphere—a round that everyone can sing together at a relaxed pace.

Born at a campground by Lake Nojiri, its melody musically evokes the calls of cuckoos and owls, conjuring a soothing moment in the forest.

Composed in 1936, it was later included on the Dark Ducks’ 1958 album “Picnic Song,” and has been loved by many ever since.

Featured in commercials for Kikkoman and S&B Foods, this familiar work invites you to enjoy it while picturing cool summer scenery.

It’s also perfect for sing-along activities with seniors, offering a heartwarming time that brings back fond memories.