Lovely nursery rhymes, folk songs, and children's songs

[Sunflower Songs] A selection of classic and popular tracks that give you energy in the hot summer

Accompanist / Piano InstructorYuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerWakachan Araki
I started playing guitar in middle school and focused on band activities during my student years. I’ve been a hobbyist Vocaloid producer for over 15 years. After entering the workforce, I gained experience in various roles, including event sound engineering and videography/photography. As a writer, I’ve contributed introduction articles for music and manga websites, and in 2022 I had the opportunity to write the bonus liner notes for IA SUPER BEST. My specialties are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.

Under the blazing summer sun, the sunflower gazes straight up at the sky.

Many of us have surely been moved by its powerful presence.

In this article, we’ll introduce recommended masterpieces and popular songs from among the many tracks themed around sunflowers.

We’ve gathered everything from songs that perfectly match the fresh, summery image of the flower to bittersweet pieces that completely transform how you think about sunflowers.

If you’re curious about “What songs feature sunflowers?”, be sure to read to the end!

[Sunflower Songs] A selection of masterpieces and popular tracks that give you energy in the hot summer (41–50)

sunflowerKoshi Yamada

Koji Yamada Sunflower

Himawari Koji Yamada

I’m moved by the passionate vocals.

This is a song by musician Koji Yamada, also known as the former lead vocalist of the rock band AROUGE.

It was released in 1994 as his solo debut single.

Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Yokohama Shinju” starring Koichi Sato, it drew a lot of attention.

When you listen to it alone, the lyrics’ message slowly sinks into your heart.

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[Sunflower Songs] A selection of uplifting classics and popular tracks for the hot summer (51–60)

Sunflower DreamKazuyoshi Saito

Kazuyoshi Saito – Sunflower Dream [Music Video Short ver.]

Sunflower Dream Saito Kazuyoshi

It’s a pop song that conjures an image of a clear blue sky stretching overhead.

It’s sung by Kazuyoshi Saito, a singer-songwriter from Tochigi Prefecture.

The track is included on his 2013 album “Saito.” Since it was used in a Sapporo Beer commercial, many people have probably heard it.

It’ll blow away any downward-spiraling feelings.

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Sunflowers in DecemberAqua Timez

Aqua Timez “Sunflower in December” Music Video

Sunflower in December - Aqua Timez

This is a song by Aqua Timez released in 2016.

It was created in collaboration with Gifu City, the hometown of vocalist Futoshi, as an “encouragement song for young people living in the present.” It was selected as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Jōhō Live Miyane-ya.” In this song, the sunflower is depicted as a flower of happiness.

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sunflowerYuki Koyanagi

Yuki Koyanagi – Sunflower

Sunflower Koyanagi Yuki

Yuki Koyanagi is a singer who captivates with overwhelming vocal power, led by hit songs like “Anata no Kiss o Kazoemashō ~You were mine~.” “Himawari” is a single released in 2013.

Chosen as the theme song for the film “Bakushin: Nagasaki no Sora,” the track features lyrics written by Koyanagi herself and sings of the preciousness of life.

The words, made even more weighty by her clear, translucent vocals, resonate deep in the heart.

Its message, as if linking earnest wishes, is layered with the strength of a sunflower standing tall and straight.

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Hitomi, Genki — Sunflower of the CityMidori Karashima

Midori Karashima - Eyes, Energy ~Sunflower in the City~ ’93

Hitomi, Genki ~Sunflower in the City~ Midori Karashima

It expresses a resolve to shake off anxiety and worries and live like a sunflower! It’s a song by singer-songwriter Midori Karashima, known for signature tracks such as “Silent Eve.” It was released as a single in 1992.

Originally written for singer Mariko Nagai, this version is Karashima’s self-cover.

Please give it a listen when you’re feeling down.

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sunflowerDEEN

DEEN 'Himawari' Music Video Short Ver.

Himawari DEEN

This is a song included on DEEN’s second Summer Special Album, “Butterfly,” released in 2016.

The lyrics express feelings for a lover as they enter their second summer together.

It would make anyone very happy to be thought of this way.

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guitar bagGalileo Galilei

Guitar Bag

Guitar bag Galileo Galilei

Known as the inaugural champions of the teen-exclusive rock festival Sengoku Riot, the four-piece rock band Galileo Galilei thrilled fans by resuming activities with a new lineup in 2022.

Guitar Bag, included on their fifth album Bee and The Whales, is a refreshing number with a breezy ensemble.

Its lyrics evoke a scene of sunflowers in full bloom and conjure the image of a great presence that watches over you no matter what.

It’s a pop tune that blends the coolness of summer with a sentimental atmosphere, featuring a chorus that feels like the world opening up before your eyes.

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