RAG MusicJapanese Enka
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)

Tsugaru Love WomanNiinuma Kenji

Kenji Niinuma’s “Tsugaru Koibito,” released in 1987, is a deeply poignant love song.

Set against the harsh winter scenery of Tsugaru, this piece, which portrays single-minded devotion, holds a special place in his musical career.

“Tsugaru Koibito” resonates with those who have parted from a loved one or thrown themselves into a bittersweet romance.

Niinuma’s voice gently seeps into the listener’s heart, beautifully expressing the feelings of someone in love alongside Tsugaru’s snowy landscapes.

It can be described as enka that conveys the profound emotions of being human.

Love Song of Dan-no-uraTsubuki Miyu

Miyu Tsubuki “Dan-no-ura Love Song” MUSIC VIDEO
Love Song of Dan-no-uraTsubuki Miyu

Miyu Tsubuki is an enka singer from Fukushima Prefecture who debuted in 2015.

Her vocals honor the traditions of enka while also exploring new musical forms.

In particular, Dan-no-Ura Koika, as the title suggests, is set in Dan-no-Ura in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture, and portrays passionate love—it’s a piece that makes your own feelings run hot.

The straightforward emotions woven into the lyrics are deeply stirring.

How about turning up the volume and enjoying it to the fullest?

With you, anywhereAoyama Shin

Aoyama Arata “Wherever With You” Music Video
With you, anywhereAoyama Shin

Arata Aoyama’s song “With You, Anywhere” is a warm piece themed around deep bonds.

Released on February 2, 2022, it has been loved by many listeners, reaching as high as No.

24 on the Oricon charts.

The song sings of the beauty of walking through life with a loved one, and its ever-continuing journey of love resonates in the listener’s heart.

Aoyama’s clear and soothing vocals further enhance the song’s charm.

Why not listen to it together with someone special?

hay feverIchikawa Yukino

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

Yukino Ichikawa’s single “Hana Wazurai” was released on April 26, 2023, as a milestone work celebrating the 30th anniversary of her debut.

The song expresses the complexity and beauty of love through the motif of “flowers,” leaving a deep impression on listeners.

Ichikawa’s gentle, expressive vocals faithfully convey the feelings of the woman in the song.

It’s a love song that reveals more depth the more you listen.

Please give it a listen.

Hydrangea SlopeHirayama Kaha

Hanaha Hirayama “Hydrangea Slope” MV [Official]
Hydrangea SlopeHirayama Kaha

Hanaha Hirayama is an enka singer with a fresh charm that puts a smile on anyone’s face when they listen.

Hailing from Tochigi Prefecture, she proved her talent by winning NHK NodoJiman during her high school years.

Her debut release is Ajisai-zaka (“Hydrangea Hill”).

It’s a classic kayōkyoku number that layers unrequited love over hydrangeas in the rain, and her clear, dewy voice resonates straight to the heart.

Enka fans—and anyone seeking to be soothed by a fresh, pure vocal—should definitely give it a listen.