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 classic enka masterpieces about love: songs that depict the nuances of mature romance.
- Women’s Enka: A collection of classic enka songs expressing women’s emotions
- [2026] A Collection of Masterpieces of Enka and Mood Kayō
- Compilation of enka duet songs. Introducing popular kayōkyoku hits as well!
- Showa-era love songs: A roundup of timeless love songs cherished across generations
- [For Women] A roundup of enka songs that can score high in karaoke
- [2026] A roundup of classic enka songs you'd like to sing at weddings and receptions
- Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 1980s
- [Enka] Songs That Are Easy to Sing Even for the Tone-Deaf [Male Singer Edition]
- A roundup of leading female enka singers representing the Showa era
- “I Want to See You”: A love song that makes you cry when you listen to it while you can’t meet
- [Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that really move you. Beloved classic Japanese hits of the past.
- Songs to give to your lover or someone you like. Love songs devoted wholeheartedly to your boyfriend or girlfriend.
A Collection of Masterpieces! Enka Love Songs (21–30)
North TavernHosokawa Takashi
Takashi Hosokawa’s signature song “Kita Sakaba” was released on March 21, 1982, marking a major turning point in his career.
Its lively melody blends exquisitely with lyrics that depict a mature romance, and it has continued to be loved by many fans.
The lyrics portray the beginning of love born from a chance encounter in a northern tavern, leaving a strong impression on listeners despite their fleeting nature.
The image of a man and woman seeking warmth on a cold night is recommended for those who feel lonely or want to once again savor the sweetness of love.
Stop the NightKiryuu Daisuke
Daisuke Kiryu, known as the “Reiwa-era Japanese Elvis,” is a powerhouse singer who has won the Elvis Presley Contest Japan three times and placed at the world championships.
His sixth single, “Stop the Night,” released in November 2025, is a love song that dramatatically portrays the rekindling of a mature romance against the backdrop of the Yokohama bayside nightscape.
Kiryu himself wrote the lyrics, with composition and arrangement by Shinji Tamura.
The track fuses rockabilly grooves with the emotive melodies of Japanese kayōkyoku.
It will especially resonate with listeners who carry memories of an unforgettable love or who are fond of port-city night views.
Love in Kyoto is a passing showerTakamiyagi Seiji
Seiji Takamiyagi, an enka singer from Kumamoto with the unique background of debuting at age 69, released his sixth single in October 2025—a nostalgic kayōkyoku set against the scenery of Sagano and Arashiyama in Kyoto.
The song depicts a fleeting romance amid the ancient capital’s landscape glistening in a passing shower.
Its gentle melody pairs exquisitely with Takamiyagi’s warm vocals, making for a beautifully crafted track.
If you’re in the mood for travel-inspired sentiment, be sure to give it a listen.
Ephemeral Flowermizuki sayoko
Though they know it’s a forbidden love, they can’t stop the feelings that keep growing.
Utakata no Hana, sung by enka vocalist Sayoko Mizuki—whose expressive power honed through Japanese dance is striking—gives voice to that aching, bittersweet longing.
It’s a ballad of deep emotion that portrays the perilous feelings of a married career woman who finds herself drawn to a younger man.
As she’s unsettled by his straightforward, youthful gaze, her heart sways beyond her control, and the protagonist’s inner conflict is conveyed with piercing clarity through Mizuki’s gently resonant voice.
If you’re struggling with the complications of adult love, this song might quietly stay by your side.
Last Train to the NorthAran
Alan, known for his strikingly deep, rich voice.
Hailing from Hokkaido and having studied under composer Akihiro Otani, he is a seasoned talent who won numerous song contests even before his debut.
His memorable debut single, “Kitaguni Saishūbin” (The Last Flight North), was released in September 2025.
Set in an airport, the song expresses an unshakable longing for a departing lover.
The poignant scene of entrusting love to the last flight disappearing into the night sky is portrayed with a melody that blends sprightliness and wistful melancholy.