[Japanese Music] A Collection of Heart-Touching Hit Folk Songs from the 1970s
What kind of songs come to mind when you hear “folk songs”? While folk music has its roots in traditional ballads and ethnic music, it evolved over time into various forms, became widespread, and produced many massive hits known by everyone.
This article focuses on the 1970s—a period when folk songs came to be recognized as popular music and transitioned into what was called “New Music,” and when many legendary singer-songwriters who left their mark on Japanese music history emerged—and compiles classic, blockbuster folk songs from that era.
The youthful inner landscapes sung with beautiful melodies and richly poetic expression are sure to resonate with younger generations as well.
If you’re interested in Showa-era popular songs, be sure to check it out!
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[J-Pop] A Collection of Soul-Stirring 1970s Folk Song Hits (21–30)
Shiretoko Ryojo (Shiretoko Travel Sentiment)Katō Tokiko
It is a celebrated song that vividly portrays the nature of Shiretoko and the feelings of love.
Its beautiful scenery and poignant emotions resonate together, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
Tokiko Kato’s pure, clear vocals further enhance the song’s appeal.
Released in November 1970, it topped the Oricon charts for seven consecutive weeks.
It also ranked second on the year-end chart that same year and became a massive hit, selling over 1.4 million copies.
The song is included in Japanese middle school music textbooks and continues to be loved across generations.
It’s a perfect choice for moments when you want to relax or reflect on memories with someone special.
The Days of Rainbows and Sneakerschūrippu
It is a classic song that leaves a strong impression with its delicate portrayal of youthful love and transience.
The scene of two people embracing in rain-soaked sweatshirts and the tender sentiment of cherishing a pair of sneakers are depicted with gentle warmth.
The lyrics symbolically express the disconnect between a man and a woman, a sudden farewell, and the immaturity of not yet being able to become an adult, all imbued with the bittersweet ache of youth.
Released in 1979 by Tulip, the song drew attention on TV programs such as The Best Ten and Yoru no Hit Studio, gaining popularity as a piece in which folk and pop are beautifully harmonized.
Kazuo Zaitsu’s warm vocals and the beautiful melody will surely comfort those who wish to heal the pain of heartbreak or look back on their cherished memories.
[Japanese Music] A Collection of Heart-Touching 1970s Folk Song Hits (31–40)
Sake, Tears, Men, and WomenKawashima Eigo
It was released on June 25, 1976.
This is one of Eigo Kawashima’s signature songs.
Sung with poignant emotion by Kawashima, the lyrics portray the hardships men and women face in life and the differing attitudes they have toward crying, making it a simple yet profoundly deep piece.
It’s a recommended song for men to sing at karaoke.
Red Elegyagata morio
It was released on April 25, 1972.
The song was created based on a gekiga (dramatic manga) that had been serialized in the manga magazine Garo.
The single’s cover art was drawn by the gekiga’s author, Seiichi Hayashi.
Among Morio Agata’s songs, it became a major hit, selling 600,000 copies, and is considered one of his signature tracks.
Cape TourYamamoto Kōtarō to Uīkuendo
Released in June 1974 as the debut single of Kotaro Yamamoto and The Weekend, this song is a classic that sings of the pain of heartbreak and the hope that follows.
It delicately portrays a man trying to heal his emotional wounds by touring capes along the coast, with the beauty of nature offering quiet comfort—an especially striking image.
Featuring a gentle melody and poetic lyrics, it became a major hit, peaking at No.
5 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
For karaoke, it’s recommended to sing while picturing natural scenery, infusing your performance with both the bittersweetness of lost love and the courage to move forward.
With lyrics that resonate and a familiar, approachable melody, it remains a beloved song across generations.
White Winterfuki no tō
This is a lyrical piece that poignantly sings of the transition from autumn to winter.
Carried by the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar, it overlays the sorrow of a bygone love and shifting emotions onto the changing of the seasons.
The transparent harmonies of Fukinotou weave a delicate world that resonates deeply in the heart.
Released as a debut single in September 1974, the song gradually gained popularity after being featured on Takuro Yoshida’s All Night Nippon, eventually reaching No.
14 on the Oricon charts.
As the duo’s signature song, it has since been covered by numerous artists.
It is a track that gently accompanies the resolve to quietly accept the end of a romance—one to listen to when you wish to heal the wounds of heartbreak or to put your feelings in order.
Among the seasonsMatsuyama Chiharu
Released in 1978, this song is a masterpiece in which delicate lyricism and a powerful melody are beautifully harmonized.
Through the changing seasons, it portrays the journey of life and resonates deeply with listeners.
Its use in a Glico Almond Chocolate commercial helped bring Chiharu Matsuyama’s name to wide public attention.
The following year, it was chosen as the theme song for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, becoming a beloved track across generations.
The world woven by Matsuyama’s commanding vocals and the lyrics that touch the heart is filled with a universal appeal that anyone can relate to.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to feel something—whether reminiscing about your youth or standing at a crossroads in life.