Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 1980s
The appeal of enka, a genre cherished as Japanese music for many years, has not faded.
Even today it’s featured on TV and in commercials, and many enka singers appear on the annual New Year’s Eve music show, the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
In this article, we’ll showcase a selection of hit enka songs released in the 1980s—works that embody the very heart of Japan.
For those who remember the era, many of these tracks will feel nostalgic.
At the same time, we’ve chosen numerous timeless classics that people born after the ’80s are likely to know as well.
Take this opportunity to sit back and savor the enka masterpieces of the 1980s.
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- 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
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- Classic enka songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: recommended popular tracks
- [1980s] A roundup of debut songs by enka singers
- [Showa Era] A Collection of Enka Hits: Timeless Classics Loved Across Generations
- A roundup of hit enka songs from the Heisei era
- Easy-to-sing enka: A roundup of recommended enka songs for karaoke
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- Nostalgic enka. A collection of classic enka hits from the Showa era.
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Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s (11–20)
Longing for RainYashiro Aki
Known as one of Aki Yashiro’s signature songs, this work was released in 1980 and won the Japan Record Award that year.
Its lyrics, which overlay the sorrowful feelings of a heartbroken woman with scenes of rain, resonated with many people and even became a social phenomenon.
In contrast to its folk-style, upbeat melody, the melancholic intro is striking.
The hand choreography in the chorus was popular with children and beloved across generations.
In 1983, it was featured as a TV drama theme song and used in commercials, gaining wide exposure in various media.
Sung with Yashiro’s distinctive husky voice and exceptional expressive power, this piece sinks even deeper into the heart when listened to on a rainy day.
Life won’t give (it) to me / Unyielding lifeSegawa Eiko
Released in 1986, this work by Eiko Segawa is her 40th single and stands as both her biggest hit and her signature song.
Thanks to its million-selling success, Segawa was finally able to appear on the coveted 1986 NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
Osaka ShigureMiyako Harumi
Released in 1980, this song is beloved throughout Japan as one of Harumi Miyako’s signature works.
Known for her distinctive vocal style, Miyako’s powerful voice perfectly matches the lyrics that evoke the atmosphere of Osaka.
The pain of heartbreak and the rain-soaked streets of Osaka are depicted with rich emotion, resonating deeply with listeners.
Miyako won the Japan Record Award for Best Vocal Performance for this song, a testament to her exceptional singing ability.
Packed with the charm of Osaka, this piece is recommended not only for enka fans but also for anyone with a special connection to the city.
Returning RiverGodai Natsuko
In 1987, when Natsuko Godai made her re-debut under this name, her debut song was “Modorigawa.” Thanks to steady promotional efforts, the song became a big hit.
It portrays the moment of parting that comes to two people caught up in a dangerous love—the poignant reality that, no matter how hard they try, it’s difficult for them to go on living together.
Godai’s deeply expressive vocals further highlight the sorrow and lingering attachment depicted in the lyrics.
Please give it a listen: a tragic love story—the very essence of enka—about wanting to be together, yet being unable to be.
Go back to Busan PortAtsumi Jirō
Return to Busan Port, sung by Jiro Atsumi, is a song that expresses a heartfelt longing for a loved one living in a faraway city.
Released in 1983, the song was originally by the Korean singer Cho Yong-pil.
It was later included on an LP released in Japan by another Korean singer, Lee Seung-ae.
This classic has been covered by many artists besides Jiro Atsumi, including Kenichi Mikawa and Keiko Fuji.
Throughout the song runs an intense desire to go—no matter what—to the place where the one you cherish is, a passion that tightens the chest as you listen.
Why not give it a listen while thinking of the person you hold dear?
Snow CountryYoshi Ikuzo
This is a 1986 work by Ikuzo Yoshi, for which he wrote both the lyrics and the music himself.
It’s the song that earned Ikuzo Yoshi—who had a strong image as a comic-song singer thanks to hits like “Ora Tokyo sa Iguda” and “Ore wa Zettai! Presley”—recognition as a genuine enka singer.
Great Enka Masterpieces and Hit Songs of the ’80s (21–30)
Sentiments of a Journey to WuxiOgata Daisaku
It’s a hit song by Daisaku Ogata released in 1986, written and composed by Daisaburō Nakayama.
The title “Wuxi” refers to Wuxi City in Jiangsu Province, China, and the lyrics depict scenes from there.
In Wuxi, a monument inscribed with the song’s Chinese version has been erected.