[For Seniors] Recommended Spring Songs for People in Their 70s: A Collection of Nostalgic Spring Tunes

The Highland Train GoesAtsurō Okamoto

The highland train goes — a nostalgic song

A song that gracefully celebrates the natural beauty of the highlands and the romance of train travel evokes heartwarming memories of family trips and brings to mind wonderful moments with loved ones.

Its sweeping scenery and romantic spirit are sure to soothe anyone’s heart.

Carried by Atsuro Okamoto’s comforting vocals, the pastoral landscapes gently resonate within.

Since its release in 1954, this work has continued to be beloved by many and was featured in the 2020 NHK morning drama series “Yell,” moving audiences across generations.

It’s perfect for a time of sharing old memories over tea with everyone.

Settle in, relax, and enjoy a peaceful moment.

Has the plum blossomed?Hibari Misora

Has the plum blossomed?

This is a wonderful piece in which Hibari Misora expresses a traditional Edo-period hauta with her radiant voice.

The refreshing scenes of spring are beautifully intertwined with the elegance of the pleasure quarters, creating a heartwarming atmosphere alongside the timbre of the shamisen.

The song likens the changing seasons and people’s sentiments to evocative blossoms such as plum, cherry, and willow.

Riding on the light rhythm of the shamisen, Misora’s vocals gracefully evoke the charm of old Japan.

This piece has long been cherished as a song that lets listeners rediscover the beauty of Japanese traditional music.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to spend time peacefully or reminisce about nostalgic Japanese landscapes, and it’s also used to create a warm, friendly atmosphere at gatherings of older adults.

Tokyo RhapsodyIchiro Fujiyama

Tokyo Rhapsody, nostalgic song, Tokyo

A classic song representing 1936 (Showa 11) was born in a work set in Ginza, Kanda, Asakusa, and Shinjuku, portrayed in a pure and light foxtrot style.

Ichiro Fujiyama’s beautiful voice elegantly sings of urban scenes and a love story.

This piece, which vividly brings to mind the bustling districts of Tokyo at the time, became a massive hit, selling 350,000 copies.

It was Fujiyama’s first release after moving to Teichiku, and a film of the same title was later produced, cementing its status as a beloved song that symbolizes the Showa era.

It’s a perfect track for a calm moment or when reminiscing about the past.

Enjoy a heartwarming time discussing what Tokyo was like back then together with older listeners.

Parting at 22wind

Parting at 22 / Kaze (with lyrics)

The debut song by the folk duo Kaze is a heartwarming classic, as gentle as the spring sunshine.

The lyrics vividly portray the pure love and parting of youth, while the tender acoustic guitar melody weaves a beautiful harmony.

Since its release in 1975, it has been covered by many artists and even adapted into a film by director Nobuhiko Obayashi in 2007, remaining beloved across generations.

In NHK’s “SukiUta — Kouhaku Everyone’s Survey,” it ranked 71st for the White Team.

It’s a perfect song for savoring slowly when you want to bask in nostalgic memories, and it could also spark lively conversations among older listeners about their experiences from back in the day.

March of 365 StepsKiyoko Suizenji

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

This song has long been loved as an anthem of encouragement in life, carrying the message that taking one step at a time is important.

Since its release in November 1968, it has continued to resonate with many people.

Born during Japan’s period of rapid economic growth, the song is characterized by its cheerful melody and positive lyrics.

It has been used in films, TV commercials, anime, and many other contexts, and has been cherished by people of all ages.

How about humming along with older adults while being enveloped by Ms.

Suizenji’s warm singing voice? It will surely bring back fond memories and give you a boost of energy.

A hill with a view of the harborAiko Hirano

Hill with a View of the Harbor / Aiko Hirano

A postwar masterpiece that gently sings of a beautiful port town.

With its wistful melody and emotionally rich lyrics, Aiko Hirano superbly conveys the stirrings of love and the ache of parting.

On a hill overlooking the harbor, as cherry blossoms fall, the delicate feelings of someone thinking of a departing lover are vividly depicted, giving the song a universal appeal that anyone can relate to.

Since its release in April 1947, it became Victor’s first hit of the postwar era, selling a total of 450,000 copies.

Many artists, including Naomi Chiaki, Mina Aoe, and Hibari Misora, have covered it.

It’s a perfect song for the season when spring is in the air, offering a heartwarming moment filled with nostalgia.

It is a wonderful piece for seniors to share a calm, reminiscence-filled time together.

Spring somewhereLyrics by Muneharu Momota / Music by Shin Kusakawa

Somewhere, spring is | with lyrics | One Hundred Japanese Songs | Somewhere, spring is being born

A beloved song that gently portrays the arrival of spring was born in March 1923.

Created by Soji Momota and Shin Kusakawa, the piece delicately captures subtle changes in nature—like the sound of water beginning to flow, birdsong, and the breath of budding plants.

Its calm, warm melody is filled with the joy and hope of spring, and it has often been featured on NHK’s educational programs.

It is recommended for music recreation sessions that spark nostalgic conversations about the past or allow people to share the feeling of spring’s arrival together.

Like a pleasant spring breeze, it will help you spend a gentle, peaceful moment.