Recommended for people in their 70s! A curated selection of Japanese songs to listen to and sing during the cold winter
On a winter day when the cold seeps into your bones, how about spending a cozy time singing beloved Showa-era classics?
In this article, we introduce timeless Japanese songs—especially recommended winter masterpieces for those in their 70s.
Sing the nostalgic tunes that bring back memories of your youth, and your heart will be full and your body warmed from the inside out—no doubt about it!
Listen to and sing your favorite songs, and let’s get through winter while savoring the profound lyrics and wistful melodies that resonate in the heart.
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Recommended for people in their 70s! A curated selection of Japanese songs to listen to and sing in the cold winter (1–10)
The Camellia Sasanqua InnEisaku Okawa
Sazanka no Yado, a signature song by Eisaku Okawa, one of the leading enka singers of the Showa era, was released in 1982 and became a huge hit, selling over 1.
8 million copies.
With its poignant melody and lyrics themed around the forbidden love of an affair, it has continued to be cherished by many.
In particular, for those experiencing a sorrowful romance or carrying the bitter memories of a broken heart, its wistful tone, like a warmth that thaws the chill from within, will resonate deeply.
On a cold winter night, immerse yourself in the world of its lyrics and feel Eisaku Okawa’s warm voice and the profound message of love.
Traveler of the NorthYujiro Ishihara
Yujiro Ishihara—a multi-talented figure who made a tremendous impact on Japan’s entertainment world as an actor, singer, and founder of Ishihara Promotion.
Released in 1987, his final single during his lifetime, “Kita no Tabibito” (Northern Traveler), stands out as one of the most memorable among his many classic songs.
After its release, it topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and sold 1.
25 million copies.
Painting a picture of the grand northern landscapes and the bittersweet feelings of a traveler, the song has continued to be loved across generations.
Its melody and lyrics, which evoke bygone days and distant memories, are a perfect fit for long winter nights when one is prone to nostalgia.
Northern fishing groundsSaburō Kitajima
The monumental song “Kita no Gyoba” (Northern Fishing Grounds) by enka legend Saburo Kitajima, released in 1986.
Reflecting hope for life, loneliness, and the indomitable spirit of fishermen, this work has been loved by many fans across generations.
Through its portrayal of fishermen who live beautifully even under extreme conditions, it conveys the weight and depth of life.
On a cold winter night, listening with family, Kitajima’s powerful voice and vivid lyrics will resonate in your heart and make you forget the chill.
Recommended for people in their 70s! A curated selection of Japanese songs to listen to and sing in the cold winter (11–20)
wintering swallowMasako Mori
Released on August 21, 1983, Masako Mori’s signature song “Ettō Tsubame” is memorable for its sad yet beautiful melody themed around winter, and lyrics that delicately portray the feelings of a woman in a heartrending love.
Many listeners may have empathized with the image of someone consumed by love and sharing in the pain of being with the one they adore.
Winter often brings a vague sense of loneliness.
Every so often, it might be nice to feel the cold winter wind on your cheeks and look back on memories of a bittersweet romance from long ago.
Tsugaru Strait – Winter SceneSayuri Ishikawa
Since her debut in 1973, Sayuri Ishikawa has produced numerous hit songs and has led Japan’s music scene in both name and substance.
Released in 1977, “Tsugaru Straits—Winter Scene” is renowned as a standout masterpiece in her career.
Its lyrics portray the poignant beauty felt during a journey from Aomori to Hokkaido, and her voice—combining tenderness with strength—blends perfectly with the song, conveying both loneliness and warmth.
For those with ties to Aomori or Hokkaido in particular, this piece is sure to resonate deeply.
Lingering Snowdolphin
Set against an unseasonal snowfall, this song portrays two people at the moment of parting.
Its understated delivery carries a poignant emotion that resonates with many listeners.
Iruka’s gentle, beautiful voice delicately expresses the sorrow and lingering attachment of farewell.
Released in 1975, it became a major hit.
Loved across generations, it has come to be cherished as a song that symbolizes early spring in Japan.
It’s familiar to people in their seventies as well, often prompting reflections on their youthful days.
Listened to on a cold winter’s day, it warms the heart, evoking nostalgia while also inspiring a sense of new hope.
City LightsMasaaki Sakai
Amid the bustle of the city, a warm singing voice that nestles close to people’s hearts.
The gentle melodies woven by Masakazu Sakai warm the soul, wrapping it like a blanket on a cold winter night.
This work stands beside those who carry loneliness and solitude, conveying the importance of bonds between people.
It delicately portrays the love and warmth that sprout in moments illuminated by the city lights.
Released in 1973, the song has continued to resonate with many, later covered by artists such as Hiromi Iwasaki and Misato Watanabe.
It’s best enjoyed on a winter night, quietly, in a warm room.