RAG MusicJapanese Enka
Lovely enka

Enka themed around flowers: a collection of songs depicting flowers in full bloom and flowers falling away.

Enka is captivating for its melodies that evoke a sense of wistfulness and its lyrics filled with a wide range of human emotions.

Another hallmark of enka is its many evocative, scenic descriptions, and pairing enka with flowers is a classic combination.

In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of enka masterpieces themed around flowers.

You’ll find everything from songs about flowers in full bloom across the four seasons to pieces with fleeting lyrics, like those about falling cherry blossoms.

Please take your time listening while reading the lyrics, and let your thoughts wander through the scenes woven into each song.

Enka with a flower theme. A collection of songs depicting flowers in full bloom and flowers falling (41–50)

flower of lingering attachmentHanasaki Yukimi

This song portrays an indelible feeling that keeps blooming deep in the heart.

Released in June 2025, it vividly conveys the lingering emotions of a love that has passed, intertwined with scenes of the changing seasons.

Lyricist Miwa Ito’s evocative word choices, HANZO’s composition with its nostalgic yet fresh melody, and Kazutoyo Sato’s string arrangements all deepen the poignancy of the story.

If you carry the memory of an unforgettable love in your heart, this work will gently stay by your side.

Our town was green indeed.Sen Masao

Masao Sen’s classic “Waga Machi wa Midori Nariki” is notable for its gentle melody.

While it is nominally classified as enka, the vocal line strongly reflects the essence of Showa-era kayōkyoku, and the characteristic enka vocal melisma (kobushi) is scarcely present.

The few instances of kobushi are mostly limited to a single scale step up or down, so even those not adept at enka-style phrasing should be able to sing it without difficulty.

If you enjoy songs with a nostalgic, old-fashioned mood, consider adding this one to your repertoire.

hay feverIchikawa Yukino

[Congratulations: 65th Japan Record Awards, Excellence Work Award Winner] Yukino Ichikawa “Hanawazurai” Music Video
hay feverIchikawa Yukino

Hanawazurai is a striking piece with a melody that exudes allure and passion.

While it carries the distinctive luster of enka, it also contains a generous dose of Showa-era pop essence.

In fact, elements typical of enka—such as the kobushi vocal ornament—rarely appear in the vocal line; the enka quality remains more of an atmospheric impression.

Because Showa pop forms the foundation, the vocal line is inherently less demanding, so if you sing with careful attention to dynamics and phrasing, it will sound professional.

Gion Dark Cherry BlossomsMiyama Hiroshi

This is a tragic love story set in Kyoto’s Gion! With lyrics by Shinichi Ishihara and music by Tetsuya Gen, it’s slated for release in June 2025.

The lyrics interweave the ambience of the hanamachi and a fleeting romance, painting beautiful scenes reminiscent of Taisho romanticism.

Sang tenderly by Hiroshi Miyama, his warm voice conveys the ache of unrequited love.

Highly recommended for those who want to savor the atmosphere of traditional Japan or lose themselves in thoughts of the ancient capital!

A sneaky personKibana Amano

A bittersweet yet warm kayō ballad themed around the romance of mature adults.

Composed by Amano Konohana, it was released in May 2025.

The song portrays the feelings of cherishing the present relationship while still probing into past loves.

Its emotionally rich melody fits perfectly with lyrics that convey tolerance and resolve.

If you’ve gathered some life experience, you’ll relate to this depiction of a seasoned, mature love—definitely give it a listen!

Kegon FallsAoi Kawori

[Full MV] Kawori Aoi “Kegon Falls” [Official]
Kegon FallsAoi Kawori

The dramatic arrangement—featuring strings that evoke grand natural scenery and the inclusion of traditional Japanese instruments—leaves a strong impression.

Aoi Kaori’s “Kegon no Taki,” released in May 2025, beautifully harmonizes a worldview inspired by Kegon Falls in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, with her heartrending vocals, just as the title suggests.

The lyrics, reflecting a woman’s feelings as she tries to forget a love that has ended, really hit home.

This is enka at its finest—be sure to experience it for yourself.

Port of Love and TearsKumagai Hiromi

Hiromi Kumagai “Koi-Naki Minato” Music Video
Port of Love and TearsKumagai Hiromi

An enka song that gently embraces the poignant nights of a port town.

Hiromi Kumagai’s clear, translucent voice delicately conveys the feelings of a woman bearing the pain of heartbreak.

Released in April 2025, this piece was born from an unreleased composition by the late master composer Shosuke Ichikawa, paired with lyrics by Takashi Manjo.

With Tatsuya Nango’s emotionally rich arrangement, the song’s allure is brought out even more.

Why not let your thoughts drift to the ache of lost love and the landscapes of memory?