Lakeside Lodge Set Up, Japanese room, Sukiyaki song - Sylvanian Families, Calico Critters

This set up features the Lakeside Lodge released in 2002 in the UK as well as an Asian inspired theme, including the Sylvanian Families Japanese Room released in 2004.

Song - “Ue o Muite Arukō,” or “I Look Up As I Walk” being the English translation of the Japanese title. Sung by Kyu Sakamoto. Popularly known in many areas outside of Japan as the Sukiyaki song. Kyu Sakamoto lived from 1941-1985, tragically killed in a plane crash. The song was first released in Japan in 1961 and became an international hit by 1963.

The song has been covered in various forms and with numerous different takes on the lyrics and tempo by performers throughout the world. It is truly one of my favorite songs that I have hummed the tune of since my childhood. Kyu had a beautiful voice.

Below are links to some of my favorite YouTube performances of the Sukiyaki song.

1. Planet Terra Orchestra - fantastic instrumental version by young musicians

   • Sukiyaki (Kyu Sakamoto) - "We'll meet...  

2. Frank Perez - my favorite English version; sweet and sad

   • Sukiyaki English Version - (cover by ...  

3. Adorable Ukele version with a teacher and students

   • Видео  

4. One of my favorite fingerstyle guitar versions, performed by peacejoytown. Happy and upbeat and I’ve been learning this version on my guitar. 🎸

   • Sukiyaki (Fingerstyle Guitar)