Learn Japanese with Songs: Ue o Muite Arukou (Sukiyaki) by Kyu Sakamoto

Introduction

One of the most iconic Japanese songs of all time is Ue o Muite Arukou (上を向いて歩こう), released in 1961 and sung by Kyu Sakamoto.
Outside Japan, it became internationally famous under the title “Sukiyaki”, even reaching No.1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in 1963 — the only Japanese song ever to do so.

This song is not just a piece of music, but also a reflection of post-war Japanese emotions, blending sadness with hope. Let’s explore the lyrics, their meaning, and what language learners can take away.

Key Lyrics and English Translation

上を向いて歩こう
涙がこぼれないように

Translation:

I will walk looking up,
So that my tears won’t fall.

Breakdown:

上を向いて (ue o muite) = “looking up” (literally “facing upward”).
歩こう (arukou) = volitional form of “to walk” → “I will walk / let’s walk.”
〜ように (…you ni) = expresses purpose: “so that ….”
Together, it conveys a determination to keep walking while looking up, to avoid tears falling.

Cultural Note

Although the international title is Sukiyaki, this has nothing to do with the lyrics. Sukiyaki is actually a Japanese hotpot dish! The record company chose this name simply because it was short, easy to pronounce, and “sounded Japanese” to Western audiences.

For Japanese people, the song symbolized perseverance during a difficult era. Instead of directly singing about sadness, the lyrics suggest hope and strength by choosing to look upward.

Language Points to Learn

Volitional form (〜よう / 〜しよう)
- Used to express determination: “I will … / let’s ….”
- Example: 行こう (ikou) = “let’s go / I will go.”
〜ように (purpose/so that)
- Used to describe doing something to achieve a certain outcome.
- Example: 忘れないようにメモする = “I write a note so that I won’t forget.”
Metaphorical expressions
- Instead of saying “I am sad,” the song uses imagery (looking up to stop tears).
- This indirect style is very common in Japanese poetry and lyrics.

Why This Song is Perfect for Learners

Simple vocabulary: The words are easy and commonly used in daily life.
Emotional depth: Learners can feel the cultural nuance of indirect expression.
Global connection: You can compare how the same song is perceived inside and outside Japan.

Summary

Ue o Muite Arukou (Sukiyaki) is more than just a sad love song. It is a cultural icon of Japan, representing resilience and hope.
By studying its lyrics, learners can practice:

the volitional form (〜よう),
purpose expressions (〜ように),
and understand how Japanese often use imagery instead of direct statements.

So next time you feel down, remember this song — and walk while looking up.