In the world of enka, there are many gem-like masterpieces that continue to shine across generations.
The 2000s, in particular, can be called a golden era where fresh energy blended with tradition.
Heartwarming, story-driven songs like “Futari-gasa,” as well as buzzworthy hits that stirred up the Oricon charts thanks to newcomers like Kiyoshi Hikawa, gave rise to a wide array of classics.
Shall we let our hearts wander together into the world of 2000s enka, where nostalgia and novelty coexist?
- A roundup of hit enka songs from the Heisei era
- Debut songs of enka singers in the 2000s
- 2000s: A Collection of Hit Karaoke Classics
- Cool masterpieces of enka, the heart of Japan
- Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 1990s
- A roundup of male enka singers in their 80s: veterans who left their mark on the enka world
- Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 1970s
- Enka Singer Popularity Ranking in Karaoke [2026]
- Kaori Kozai Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Women’s Enka: A collection of classic enka songs expressing women’s emotions
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
- [Enka First Year] A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Songs by Yoko Nagayama [2026]
- Classic enka songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: recommended popular tracks
Great Enka Masterpieces and Hit Songs of the 2000s (1–10)
As I am in love…Akimoto Junko
It was released in 2008 as Junko Akimoto’s third single.
The song climbed significantly in the rankings with each of her appearances on NHK Kayou Concert, and on the Oricon Enka/Kayou chart dated July 14, 2008, it reached No.
1 for the first time.
At the 50th Japan Record Awards, it won the Excellence Work Award, and it drew attention as the first time in history that a singer in their 60s had topped the Oricon chart.
Hanjirō of the Hakone Eight RiHikawa Kiyoshi
It was released in 2000 as Kiyoshi Hikawa’s debut single.
The song was created with Hakone Hachiri as its motif, and at the 33rd Japan Lyricist Awards it became the first debut song ever to win the Grand Prize.
Hikawa himself also swept the Best New Artist awards at year-end music festivals, including the 42nd Japan Record Awards.
The song was used in Taiho Pharmaceutical’s “Tiovita Drink” commercial, and it reached No.
11 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
I’m falling in love with you againSakamoto Fuyumi
This is a famous song by Fuyumi Sakamoto that portrays how love for a longtime partner deepens over time and blooms anew.
Even the scars born of youthful folly turn into cherished memories as the two share their days together.
Those warm feelings soak into the heart, carried by a gentle melody.
The song was released in January 2009 as the B-side to the single “Asia no Kaizoku,” and was later included on the acclaimed album “Love Songs ~ Mata Kimi ni Koishiteru ~.” It also gained widespread recognition as the theme song for Sanwa Shurui’s barley shochu “iichiko,” and in 2010 it reached No.
3 on the Oricon weekly chart.
Why not listen when you want to reflect anew on the preciousness of the days you spend with someone dear?
Kiyoshi’s Zundoko SongHikawa Kiyoshi
Released on February 6, 2002, Kiyoshi Hikawa’s single “Kiyoshi no Zundoko-bushi” is a work that brought a fresh breeze to the enka world.
Since his debut, Hikawa has continued to captivate many people.
Soon after its release, this song won the hearts of listeners and became beloved nationwide.
In particular, the strong spirit expressed in the lyrics—never losing hope for the future even when facing difficulties—resonates with many.
Its appeal lies in the timeless message of hope delivered through a rhythmic, accessible melody.
Highly recommended for a wide range of generations, it’s a song that has been embraced not only by enka fans but by many listeners in general.
Great Catch Festivalsakuramaya
It was released in 2008 as Maya Sakura’s debut single.
The song carries a wish for fishing ports all across Japan to have great catches and be happy, and it was used as the theme song for Takara Tomy’s “Oyako no Taiyaki-kun” commercial.
In 2009, it won the New Artist Award at the 51st Japan Record Awards and also received the New Artist Award at the 42nd Japan Cable Awards.
Snow Skin GrassJōnouchi Sanae
Released in 2002 as Sanae Jounouchi’s 15th single.
It’s a song that conveys how, even in a small city apartment without wealth, a couple can find happiness in the little things.
Warm and heartwarming, this gentle enka number perfectly matches Sanae Jounouchi’s tender singing voice.
A street corner in loveYamauchi Keisuke
Released in 2009 as Keisuke Yamauchi’s ninth single.
It reached No.
38 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and is a song that fans can get excited about together.
Loved as one of the signature songs of Keisuke Yamauchi—popular in the enka world as the “Prince” with his handsome features.