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 songs with a flower theme. A collection of tracks depicting flowers in full bloom and flowers falling (51–60)

unlucky flowerFuji Ayako

Ayako Fuji “Unlucky Flower” Music Video (1 chorus)
unlucky flowerFuji Ayako

As the title “Hakyōka” (Unlucky Flower) suggests, this 1998 single features Aya-ko Fuji’s poignant vocals that movingly portray the ill-fated life of a woman heartbroken in love.

Composed by Keisuke Hama—who has created many classics in the history of Japanese kayōkyoku—the melody is in a major key yet refined and tinged with melancholy, which is truly wonderful.

Miyuki Ishimoto’s lyrics, contrasting a flower by the roadside with the protagonist’s life, are also deeply evocative.

While there is a soaring high note in the chorus, there are no intense kobushi (ornamental turns) or heavy vibrato overall, making it relatively simple and easy to sing for an enka song—so it’s a good recommendation for beginners.

potato flowersKoyama Yudai

This is a song that brings a swell of gratitude for one’s mother.

Set for release in March 2025, it’s by Yudai Koyama, an enka singer from Hokkaido.

With a powerful voice honed by winning folk song competitions, he vividly portrays the vast northern landscapes and his feelings for his mother.

Featuring lyrics by Suzuko Sawada and music by Tetsuya Gen, this work weaves a love story that resonates with anyone who cherishes their parents.

Turn me onayano Aya

A single by Aya Ayano that beautifully captures the loneliness and lingering attachment left after a breakup.

The scene where the desire to gradually erase the memories of love intersects with the feelings that can’t be forgotten seeps into the heart atop a beautiful melodic line.

Released in February 2025, this piece retains the flavor of Showa-era kayōkyoku while featuring a modern arrangement.

It’s a perfect song for those who resonate with the bittersweet emotions of adult love or who want to let their hidden feelings ride on a song.

Tears of Dead LeavesMatsubara Miho

Miho Matsubara “Tears of Dead Leaves” MV [Official]
Tears of Dead LeavesMatsubara Miho

A gem of a ballad that portrays the sorrow of heartbreak through the image of dead leaves dancing in the wind.

Delivered by Miho Matsubara in February 2025, this song delicately depicts the pain and loneliness of lost love.

Veteran composer Chiaki Oka’s beautiful melody adds a gentle, heartfelt touch.

The protagonist’s feelings as they stand alone on a city corner at night are tenderly wrapped in a voice full of melancholy.

The way the song follows the lingering image of a loved one and wanders through a drizzly city really strikes a chord.

If you’re carrying the ache of heartbreak, listening to this track will grip the depths of your heart.

Enka songs themed around flowers: A collection of tracks depicting flowers in full bloom and flowers falling (61–70).

Bloom, flowers of happinessNatsuki Ayako

Ayako Natsuki “Bloom, Flower of Happiness” Music Video
Bloom, flowers of happinessNatsuki Ayako

A heartwarming enka that paints hope and bonds.

Ayako Natsuki’s gentle yet powerful voice vividly conveys the feelings of a couple who have overcome hardships.

As the symbolic title suggests, it reminds us of the importance of holding on to hope even amid harsh realities.

Released in May 2024, this work drew attention as part of the “Flower Series.” It’s a song full of courage and kindness that I’d especially like those weathering life’s rough seas to hear.

winter peonyMizuki Natsumi

Natsumi Mizuki “Winter Peony” Music Video
winter peonyMizuki Natsumi

Natsumi Mizuki’s song, which likens the bond between mother and daughter to winter peonies, carries on the tradition of enka while also bringing a breath of fresh air.

The lyrics, sung over a wistful melody, express the strength of familial love through the image of a flower that blooms proudly despite harsh conditions.

Released in May 2024, this work is deeply moving and resonates with listeners.

It’s a recommended track for Mother’s Day gifts or for expressing gratitude to someone special.

Crimson CamelliaOkita Masami

[MV One Chorus] Masami Okita “Crimson Camellia” [Official]
Crimson CamelliaOkita Masami

The new song commemorating Masami Okita’s 30th anniversary debut captivates with a Japanese-style dramatic atmosphere.

It expresses a woman’s heart—singing fiercely and painfully of an unattainable love—by likening it to a camellia flower.

Released in June 2024, the track beautifully fuses traditional Japanese elements with modern arrangements.

Its dramatic melody and emotionally rich vocals will resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a must-hear for anyone troubled or wounded by love.

Within its subdued mood lies the culmination of Okita’s 30 years of experience and passion.