Recommended Christmas songs for people in their 70s: A collection of classic winter hits from the Showa era
When we think of Christmas, it has always been a special season—not only today but also since the Showa era.
Christmas songs have been beloved since those days, and some have become classics that we still hear every year.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of Christmas songs that will be familiar to people in their 70s—from timeless standards to nostalgic masterpieces.
Beyond the melodies, the lyrics—woven with wonderful stories—are also part of the charm.
So please take a look at the lyrics and listen along.
Recommended Christmas songs for people in their 70s: A collection of classic winter hits from the Showa era (1–10)
We Wish You A Merry ChristmasNEW!
This song, sung in western England in the 16th century, is said to have originally been performed when visiting wealthy households to receive treats.
The lyrics carry wishes for New Year and Christmas happiness, along with a humorous line about not going home until they get plum (fig) pudding.
Combined with its bright, festive melody, its familiarity is part of its charm.
The piece spread around the world and has since been passed down by many singers.
It makes great background music for enjoying Christmas with family and friends, and because its well-known melody is easy for older adults to sing, why not all join in together and liven things up?
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little StarNEW!
A nursery rhyme about the twinkling stars in the night sky that everyone hummed as a child.
Reconstructed by rutekia in August 2025 as a contemporary instrumental piece, this work uses electro-classical techniques to express the sparkle of stars in sound.
The original melody traces back to an 18th-century French chanson, with Mozart himself composing variations on it.
Delicate timbres of synthesizer and piano evoke the expanse of the night sky, making it perfect for quiet listening on Christmas night.
How about spending a moment gazing at the stars with older loved ones, reminiscing about memories of the beloved nursery rhyme?
Midnight Flight -Lonely Christmas Eve-Shogo Hamada
A timeless song whose gentle melody wraps winter’s loneliness and seeps into the heart.
Shogo Hamada’s clear voice poignantly portrays the solitude of Christmas Eve night.
It was included on the 1985 mini-album “CLUB SNOWBOUND,” and later featured on the 1989 self-cover album “Wasted Tears.” Its delicate lyrics capture the pain of heartbreak and the introspection that comes amid the bustle of the city.
A track that offers solace to those who’ve parted from someone dear or find themselves at a turning point in life.
Why not listen to it on a quiet night?
Midwinter DateNEW!Mari Amachi
Mari Amachi, who was a national idol in the early 1970s.
This song, included as the B-side of the single “Futari no Nichiyoubi,” released in December 1972, warmly depicts lovers intertwining their fingers and snuggling close as a wintry, leafless avenue is swept by a cold wind.
The lyrics are by Michio Yamagami, the music by Masayuki Hirao, and the arrangement by Shunichi Makaino.
The words, which sing of love nurtured in the cold season, combine with Amachi’s clear, transparent voice to evoke a sense of hope amid the poignancy.
Featured on a single that sold about 440,000 copies at the time, the track was also included on the album “Ashita e no Melody” and has continued to be loved by fans.
Give it a listen while imagining a moment spent with someone special on a chilly day.
Christmas DayOf course
Off Course’s music is characterized by warm, delicate harmonies.
Released in December 1981, this song stands out for its majestic sound and hymn-like harmonies.
Rather than dazzling brilliance, its somewhat wistful tone resonates deeply.
It carries not only themes of romance, but also compassion for loved ones and wishes for their happiness.
Even today, it is cherished by many as a piece that accompanies older listeners during the quiet, introspective hours of Christmas.
Recommended for those who want to spend a peaceful time with family or someone special.
Christmas EveTatsuro Yamashita
Wrapped in a warm atmosphere, this song is a winter classic that Tatsuro Yamashita himself has called “a piece that will remain as my signature.” It’s a work you’re sure to hear every Christmas season.
Originally written for his wife, Mariya Takeuchi, it ended up going unused, and thinking it would be a waste, he decided to release it himself.
Released in December 1983, it became a long-selling hit after being featured in a JR Central commercial in 1988.
While the lyrics deal with heartbreak, the melody is warm and hopeful.
It’s a familiar tune for older listeners as well, one that can be enjoyed together with fond memories.
AnnaKai Band
A classic by Kai Band will brighten your Christmas moments.
Its poignant lyrics about longing for a loved one far away resonate deeply.
Released in 1979, this song’s charm has never faded with time.
A remake was released in 2012, and it continues to be loved by a new generation.
Spending Christmas alone on a cold night—why not listen to this song then? Warm memories will resurface, and your heart will be soothed.
It’s a track seniors can enjoy as well, filled with nostalgia.
Be sure to listen to it together with someone special.