Japanese sign-language songs; sign-language song(s)

Bridge of Gloryyuzu

Sign language chorus “Eikou no Kakehashi” (by Yuzu) — Japanese chorus ‘Eikou no Kakehashi’ with sign language

This is the 21st single by Yuzu, a folk duo that has produced numerous hit songs as pioneering musicians from the streets.

Chosen as the official theme song for NHK’s coverage of the Athens Olympics, it’s a classic that virtually every Japanese person knows.

Its lyrics affirm dreams and hard work, and the dramatic composition conveys the same powerful energy even in sign language.

It’s a song that gives courage—perfect for when you want to cheer on someone who’s giving their all.

A one-of-a-kind flower in the worldSMAP

Sign language chorus “Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana” (SMAP)

The 35th single by SMAP, the legendary idol group whose calls for a reunion have never ceased even after their disbandment.

Written by singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara, this song became the first work released in the Heisei era to achieve triple million sales.

The original performance is famously striking, and because the beauty of the lyrics can be conveyed directly in sign language, it’s also recommended as a sign language song.

It’s a classic that every Japanese person likely knows, delivering a message—that everyone is special—that gives people courage.

A bouquet with loveSuperfly

With Love, a Bouquet / Superfly (Sign Language Song)

A music unit Superfly’s fourth single, featuring vocalist Shiho Ochi, whose powerful singing voice is so captivating.

This song was used as the theme for the TV drama “Edison no Haha” (Edison’s Mother), and thanks to its lyrics, it’s also known as a classic choice for weddings.

While the song is characterized by its emotional melody, its beautiful and strong lyrics can inspire courage even when expressed in sign language.

Some parts can be tricky because the lyrics mention colors, but even if you don’t force sign language, you can convey the meaning using drawings and other visual expressions—so feel free to get creative.

A Song for YouSayuri Sugawara

HEAR-T Sign: A Song for You - JSL Sign Language

A song by female singer Sayuri Sugawara, who has been active under the name THE SxPLAY since 2014 and draws influences from a wide range of music including pop, rock, classical, and dance.

It is the title track of her first mini-album “Kimi ni Okuru Uta” and was used as the opening theme for the music program JAPAN COUNTDOWN.

The lyrics, which sing of unwavering devotion, may convey even stronger emotion when expressed in sign language.

The combination of expressive signing with the song’s memorable acoustic guitar arpeggios and delicate beats reveals new charms—making it a highly recommended number for sign-language performance.

Let It Go ~As I Am~Takako Matsu

Sign language chorus: “Frozen – Let It Go” (subtitled, model). Singing in sign language.

A song by Takako Matsu, a female singer who is active across a wide range of fields, including acting, voice acting, and singing, and who commands a strong presence.

It’s known as one of the numbers from Disney’s Frozen, in which she starred as a voice actress, and it has received high acclaim not only in Japan but also overseas.

Its powerful, forward-looking lyrics retain their impact even in sign language, allowing you to convey a dynamic energy reminiscent of a scene from the film.

As a famous song recognized around the world, not just in Japan, it’s a perfect choice to perform as a sign-language song.

InfinityKanjani Eight

Kanjani Eight – Infinity (Sign Language Song)

A song by Kanjani Eight, a five-member idol group highly praised for their personalities and skills in dance, band performances, and variety entertainment.

It’s included on their 3rd single, “Sukiyanen, Osaka.

/Sakura Oenka (Oh! ENKA)/Mugendai,” and was also used as the Japanese promotional song for the animated feature “Robots.” Because it includes rap, a perfectly literal reproduction of the lyrics can be a bit difficult, but by conveying the sense accurately, the message still comes through.

It’s a track whose words to a friend will warm your heart, and it’s also recommended as a song for sign language performances.

threadMiyuki Nakajima

Sign language chorus “Ito” (Miyuki Nakajima) Japanese chorus ‘ITO’ with sign language

A famous song by Miyuki Nakajima that’s hugely popular at weddings and other occasions.

Its gentle, soothing tempo and heartfelt lyrics have won the support of many people, and it has been covered numerous times by other artists.

The lyrics, which sing about life, are profound, and it would be wonderful to convey that depth through sign language.