Maruyama Memories

"Maruyama Memories" is a sentimental J-POP track inspired by the spring scenery of Maruyama in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The song weaves images of cherry blossoms in full bloom, the torii gates of Hokkaido Shrine, and the gentle wind along the shrine path, expressing memories of youth and the passage of time.
The lyrics tell a story of walking familiar streets, recalling days that once shone brightly, and facing the pain of remembering a love that has become the past. In the chorus, the line "our beautiful youth carried away by the dry wind" captures the fragile yet precious nature of those memories.
Musically, the track is based on a melancholic minor-key melody with a restrained vocal style. The arrangement begins calmly with subtle instrumentation, gradually expanding with layers of synths and keyboards toward a dramatic chorus. Electric guitar arpeggios and rhythmic patterns provide texture, while the bridge deepens the emotional expression with unanswered questions before leading into a key change for the final chorus. The outro fades gently with piano, synth, and acoustic guitar, leaving a lingering aftertaste of nostalgia.
The background of this song comes from the artist's own life, walking daily between Nishi 28-chome Station and Maruyama Koen Station many years ago. The landscapes of the city, the seasonal beauty of Sapporo, and the emotions tied to those places are reflected in both the lyrics and the atmosphere of the music.
"Maruyama Memories" is a song about carrying emotions of love and loss, while still moving forward through everyday life. It resonates with those who have experienced the fleeting beauty of spring in Hokkaido, as well as anyone who treasures the bittersweet memories of youth.