Ringo-ki / Mugi no Hi (Hibari Misora Memorial Day)

What Is Ringo-ki / Mugi no Hi?

June 24 is "Ringo-ki" (Apple Memorial Day) and "Mugi no Hi" (Wheat Day) in Japan. It marks the anniversary of the death of Hibari Misora, one of the most celebrated singers of Japan's Showa era, who died on June 24, 1989, at the age of 52. "Ringo-ki" comes from her hit song "Ringo Oiwake" (Apple Folk Song), and "Mugi no Hi" comes from her name "Hibari" (skylark), since skylarks often make their homes in wheat fields.

The Life of Hibari Misora

Hibari Misora, whose real name was Kazue Katō, was born on May 29, 1937, in Isogo Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture.

• A child prodigy: She performed on stage from a young age and made her record debut in 1949 with "Kappa Boogie Woogie." Her starring films and their theme songs, such as "Kanashiki Kuchibue" and "Tokyo Kid," became one hit after another.
• The queen of kayōkyoku: She was active in popular song, film, and theater, and left many signature songs, including "Yawara" and "Kanashii Sake."
• Her last single: "Kawa no Nagare no Yō ni" (Like the Flow of the River), released in January 1989, was her last single released during her lifetime.

Where "Ringo" and "Hibari" Come From

The two names for this day come from one of her signature songs and from her name.

• Ringo-ki: "Ringo Oiwake" was created in 1952 as an insert song for "Ringo-en no Shōjo" (The Girl of the Apple Orchard), a radio drama marking the launch of Radio Tokyo (now TBS Radio). When the story was made into a film the same year, the song became its theme. It is said to have sold 700,000 copies, the highest in postwar Japan at the time.
• Mugi no Hi: Skylarks often nest in grassy places such as wheat fields, so her name "Hibari" gave rise to the name "Wheat Day."

Interesting Facts

• First woman to receive the People's Honour Award: In July 1989, the month after her death, she became the first woman to receive the People's Honour Award in recognition of her long contribution to Japanese popular music.
• The "Phoenix" concert: In April 1988, after recovering from illness, she held the "Phoenix Concert" at Tokyo Dome, which drew wide attention.
• A monument in Hirosaki: Apple Park in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, the setting of "Ringo Oiwake," has a monument to the song, and the "All-Japan Ringo Oiwake Contest" is held in the city.

Ways to Spend the Day

• Listen to Hibari Misora's songs, such as "Ringo Oiwake" and "Kawa no Nagare no Yō ni."
• Watch old Showa-era films or music programs to hear her voice as a young singer.
• Talk about favorite songs with family or coworkers and enjoy how memories differ by generation.
• Enjoy an apple snack as a nod to the name "Ringo-ki."

Her Voice Is Still Passed Down Across Generations

Ringo-ki / Mugi no Hi on June 24 is a day to remember Hibari Misora, a singer who represents the Showa era. More than 30 years after her death, her songs are still sung. Why not take some time today to listen to them?