"Apple Song" Day

What Is "Ringo no Uta" Day?

October 11 is "Ringo no Uta (Apple Song) Day" in Japan. On October 11, 1945 (Showa 20), Soyokaze (Shochiku), the first Japanese film produced and released after the war, opened in theaters. Its theme song was "Ringo no Uta." Just two months after the end of the war, the cheerful melody rang out across the burned-out cities and became the first big hit of the postwar era.

How the Song Came About

"Ringo no Uta" was written by lyricist Sato Hachiro and composer Manjome Tadashi.

• The film Soyokaze: Namiki Michiko starred in the film and sang the song in it. The story follows a young lighting assistant at a revue theater who dreams of becoming a singer.
• The record: In January 1946, Columbia released the song as a record sung by Namiki Michiko and Kirishima Noboru, spreading its popularity even further.
• The singer's story: Namiki had lost family members in the war, and it is said that her bright singing despite this struck a chord with many people.

Postwar Japan and "Ringo no Uta"

During the war, military songs and morale-boosting songs dominated. In that context, "Ringo no Uta," which expresses simple feelings through a red apple, was welcomed as a sign of a new era. Food was scarce at the time, and apples themselves are said to have been expensive. The song still often appears in footage and programs looking back on Japan's postwar recovery.

"Ringo no Uta" Trivia

• Sato Hachiro: The lyricist is also known for children's songs still sung today, such as "Chiisai Aki Mitsuketa" and "Ureshii Hinamatsuri."
• The opening line: "Akai ringo ni kuchibiru yosete" (bringing my lips to a red apple) is familiar across generations.
• Apple season: October is when the apple harvest gets into full swing. Varieties like Tsugaru appear from around September, and Fuji from around November.
• Showa pop revival: In recent years, younger listeners have rediscovered Showa-era popular songs through streaming and covers.

Ideas for "Ringo no Uta" Day

• Listen to "Ringo no Uta" and imagine how people felt hearing it at the time.
• Compare seasonal apples - each variety differs in sweetness, tartness and texture.
• Pick one song that lifts your mood and keep it ready for when you need a boost.
• Ask family members or older people about the songs they remember.

Something to Remember on "Ringo no Uta" Day

October 11 is a day to recall how one song brought brightness to many people after the war. In every era, songs have supported people's spirits. Enjoy a seasonal apple today, and hum a song that cheers you up.