[Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that really move you. Beloved classic Japanese hits of the past.

Dotonbori SentimentYoshimi Tendo

[MV] Yoshimi Tendo / Dotonbori (Tonbori) Ninjō (Full Ver.)

Yoshimi Tendo’s “Dotonbori Ninjō” captivates with warm lyrics that evoke the city of Osaka and a pleasant melody.

It carries the strength to move forward in life after heartbreak and setbacks.

Since its 1985 release, it has continued to be loved by many and was even performed on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

The lyrics praising symbols of Osaka like Tsutenkaku and the gritty spirit of Naniwa are especially striking.

For older listeners, it’s a song that will resonate deeply, stirring nostalgic memories.

It might be nice to listen with friends or family and let old stories blossom.

cherry blossom frontRumiko Koyanagi

Cherry Blossom Front by Rumiko Koyanagi

Sakura Zensen is a classic song heralding spring, released in 1976 by Rumiko Koyanagi.

Its lyrics delicately portray scenes from a journey across Japan and the shifting of the heart, blending with a gentle, bittersweet melody that resonates deeply.

Feelings for what has been lost and anticipation for a new season intertwine, expressed through Koyanagi’s warm vocals that offer comfort to listeners.

It’s a song that gives you the courage to take a new step with the arrival of spring.

While it’s perfect for the cherry blossom season, it will also be a strong companion when you want to bask in nostalgia or make a fresh start.

Life is full of ups and downs.Chiyoko Shimakura

Life is full of ups and downs.

Chiyoko Shimakura’s deeply moving classic “Jinsei Iroiro,” released in 1987, features warmly human lyrics that resonate with many people.

In 1988, it won the Best Vocal Performance at the 30th Japan Record Awards and surpassed 1.

3 million in total sales.

The memory of Shimakura returning to the Kōhaku stage to perform the song comes back as vividly as if it were yesterday.

Chosen as the approach melody at Aomonoyokochō Station, among other places, its familiar tune is laced with both tears and hope, offering a fresh emotional experience every time you listen.

Snow CountryIkuzo Yoshi

Snow Country by Ikuzo Yoshi

Ikuzo Yoshi’s “Yukiguni” is a masterpiece that skillfully portrays a bittersweet love and the snowy country’s scenery.

The feelings of a woman shedding tears alone on a cold winter night really touch the heart.

The repeated phrase “Oikakete, oikakete.

.

.” (Chasing, chasing.

.

.

) is striking, and you can’t help but hum along.

Released in 1986, the song became a huge hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

It’s a landmark work that cemented Yoshi’s status as an enka singer.

It’s perfect for those cold seasons when you want to bask in nostalgia.

Sing it at karaoke with friends, and it’s sure to warm your hearts.

Northern fishing groundsSaburō Kitajima

Saburo Kitajima 'Northern Fishing Grounds' (Official Audio)

Saburo Kitajima’s “Kita no Gyoba” (“Northern Fishing Grounds”) is a masterpiece that powerfully gives voice to the feelings of fishermen.

The way they confront harsh nature is vividly portrayed through lyrics by Kaoru Shinjo.

Since its 1986 release, the song has remained beloved by many and even won the Japan Record Awards’ Best Vocal Performance.

It’s also a karaoke classic.

The pride and loneliness of men who live by the northern seas—and their passion for the ocean—resonate deeply.

Why not sing it with friends, along with your nostalgic memories? It’s sure to make for a moving and wonderful time.

March of 365 StepsKiyoko Suizenji

Kiyoko Suizenji - “365-Step March” (Official Audio)

Kiyoko Suizenji’s “365-Step March,” which conveys the spirit of the Showa era, continues to move many hearts even today.

Since its release in 1968, its momentum has never waned, and its warm, forward-looking lyrics resonate with listeners.

For those in their seventies in particular, it likely brings back memories of their youth.

Its lyrics, which echo Buddhist thought, also offer a calming source of support.

While we look back fondly on days gone by, it fills us with the courage to take a new step forward.

May you spend today with energy as you listen to its heart-touching melody.

Traveler of the NorthYujiro Ishihara

Northern Traveler - Yujiro Ishihara

Yujiro Ishihara’s “Kita no Tabibito” (Northern Traveler) is a classic in which the bittersweet feelings of a wanderer overlap with the scenery of Japan’s northern regions.

The lyrics, evoking cold and loneliness, resonate deeply.

Released in 1987 as his final single during his lifetime, it has continued to be cherished by many even after his passing.

The mists of Hakodate and the snowy landscapes of Otaru are portrayed beautifully, and the yearning for lost love is deeply moving.

Many may feel a sense of nostalgia in Ishihara’s wistful voice, which seems to symbolize the end of the Showa era.

It’s wonderful to listen to while chatting with friends, and equally recommended for quietly immersing yourself in memories alone.