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Lovely enka

A collection of masterpieces! A roundup of enka love songs

Within enka, there are works spanning a variety of genres and vivid scene depictions, but many people probably feel that “enka means love songs.”

So this time, we’re introducing enka love songs!

We’ll cover a wide range—from songs that sing as if narrating a heartrending tragic romance, to ones where love wells up endlessly.

We’ve focused on hit songs, so it’s perfect for choosing tracks for karaoke, too.

Be sure to check it out to the end!

A Collection of Masterpieces! Enka Love Songs (11–20)

Terminal Station of LoveYashiro Aki

Aki Yashiro’s “Ai no Shūchakueki,” released in 1977, paints the scenery of a heartrending romance and has captured the hearts of many fans.

The song conveys a deep sense of melancholy and emotion for a lost love.

Yashiro’s warm yet powerful vocals further heighten the piece’s emotional resonance.

It’s especially recommended for those who can’t forget a former lover or who feel nostalgic about a past romance.

Aki Yashiro’s expressive singing and the touching melody are sure to be a comforting presence to your heart.

Woman of HakodateKitajima Saburō

Sabu Kitajima, a giant in the enka world, sings “Hakodate no Onna,” a classic that portrays a heartrending love that resonates deeply.

Released in 1965, it continues to be cherished by many even after all these years.

Kitajima’s powerful, heartfelt vocals and the lyrics that depict the beautiful scenery of Hakodate transport listeners straight to Hokkaido.

It’s perfect for those moments when you want to reflect on a past love and feel that bittersweet yet warm emotion.

Loved across generations, “Hakodate no Onna” is a song well worth listening to with care.

I’m falling in love with you againSakamoto Fuyumi

Fuyumi Sakamoto – I'm Falling in Love with You Again
I'm falling in love with you againSakamoto Fuyumi

Fuyumi Sakamoto’s “Mata Kimi ni Koishiteru” is a song released on January 7, 2009, delicately portraying deep love and longing.

It became widely known after being featured in the commercial for Sanwa Shurui Co., Ltd.’s iichiko.

The song has also remained a favorite, consistently ranking high in karaoke charts.

With its straightforward expression of love, it’s recommended not only as a love song but also as an encouraging anthem for those who value human connections and wish to live cherishing their ties with others.

A street corner in loveYamauchi Keisuke

Keisuke Yamauchi “Koisuru Machikado” Music Video
A street corner in loveYamauchi Keisuke

The prince of the enka world, Keisuke Yamauchi, released his single “Koisuru Machikado” on October 1, 2008.

This song richly portrays love stories unfolding across various regions of Japan.

By depicting the moments people fall in love against the backdrop of local scenery and everyday life, it invites listeners’ empathy.

A defining feature of the track is that, while it follows the traditional enka style, it also weaves in contemporary views on romance.

That blend makes it feel familiar and conveys the diversity of love.

White Thread Love StoryKudō Ayano

[Full MV] Ayano Kudo – “Shiraito Love Story” [Official]
White Thread Love StoryKudō Ayano

Ayano Kudo is an enka singer from Yamagata Prefecture, known by the catchphrase “Yamagata’s Sunny Daughter.” Her 7th single, Shiraito Renjōbanashi, released on January 26, 2022, is a song that evokes the depth and tradition of enka, reaching a peak position of No.

21 on the Oricon charts.

It features unwavering, heartrending feelings for a cherished person and a richly emotional melody.

The imagery set against Kanazawa’s Asanogawa River will particularly resonate with those familiar with the area.

Kudo’s delicate vocals further enhance the song’s appeal.

Interweaving emotions of love and parting, this work is recommended for those who have experienced bittersweet romance or who are seeking a heartwarming story.