![[2026] A Collection of Classic Enka and Kayōkyoku Songs About Nagasaki [Local Songs]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/16YWe9jZQ4g/maxresdefault.webp)
[2026] A Collection of Classic Enka and Kayōkyoku Songs About Nagasaki [Local Songs]
Did you know that in the late 1960s there was a boom in so-called “local songs” themed around Nagasaki within genres like enka and mood kayō? It’s quite fascinating that a string of classic Showa-era hits set in Nagasaki emerged one after another, such as Shianbashi Blues by Akira Nakai, Masaru Takahashi & Corolatino, and Nagasaki Blues by Mina Aoe.
This article highlights and introduces local songs set in Nagasaki, selected from the enka and kayōkyoku genres.
Even today in the Reiwa era, new local songs continue to be born—enjoy the enduring charm of Nagasaki through these timeless classics.
[2026] A Collection of Classic Enka and Kayōkyoku Songs About Nagasaki [Local Songs] (1–10)
It was rainy again in Nagasaki today.Uchiyamada Hiroshi to Cool Five
This is a classic song that poignantly portrays a bittersweet love set in Nagasaki.
Released in February 1969, it vividly sings of a woman bearing the pain of heartbreak in a cobblestone town wet with rain.
It was the major debut single of Hiroshi Uchiyamada and the Cool Five, and it won the New Artist Award at the Japan Record Awards that same year.
The song became a million-seller, with about 1.5 million copies sold.
Kiyoshi Maekawa’s deep vocal is striking, and you can sense the influence of Elvis Presley.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to soothe the sting of heartbreak while reflecting on Nagasaki’s rain.
If you sing it at karaoke, it’s sure to resonate with those around you.
Nagasaki BluesAoe Mina
It’s fair to call this a masterpiece where the bittersweet ache of love and the scenery of Nagasaki blend beautifully.
Mina Aoe’s uniquely low, husky voice, paired with the wistful melody, sinks deeply into the listener’s heart.
Released in July 1968, the song peaked at No.
2 on the Oricon chart and went on to rank 10th in annual sales the following year—a major hit.
It was even adapted into a film in April 1969, with Aoe herself appearing in it.
It’s perfect for those moments when you want to immerse yourself in a poignant romantic mood while feeling the ambiance of Nagasaki.
It also makes a moving soundtrack when you visit the city.
Woman of NagasakiKasuga Hachirō
The song released in 1963 and performed by Hachirō Kasuga is known as a pioneering enka/kayōkyoku piece set in Nagasaki.
Against the backdrop of Nagasaki’s beautiful scenery, its lyrics richly portray the sorrow of parting, perfectly matched by Kasuga’s clear, transparent voice—no doubt powerfully capturing the hearts of listeners at the time.
Issued as a single by King Records, the work has remained beloved over the years and was re-released on CD by the same label in 1990.
It’s an ideal song for those planning a trip to Nagasaki or anyone wishing to bask in nostalgic memories.
Shianbashi BluesNakai Akira, Takahashi Masaru to Kororatīno
It’s a classic song that vividly and emotionally portrays the cityscape of Nagasaki.
The lyrics, which overlay the rain-soaked streets with a lost love, really resonate.
Released in April 1968, it became a major hit, reaching No.
3 on the weekly Oricon chart and No.
15 for the year.
The song sparked a Nagasaki boom and had a significant impact on tourism.
The performance by Akira Nakai, Masaru Takahashi, and the Corolatino brings out the full appeal of melancholy mood kayō.
Listen to it on a rainy day, and it will touch your heart even more.
When you visit Nagasaki, why not stroll through the city while listening to this piece?
Madame Butterfly of NagasakiMisora Hibari
This is a classic song that beautifully portrays the poignant feelings of a woman who continues to wait for her lover who has departed for distant shores, interwoven with the exotic scenery of Nagasaki.
Released in July 1957, it was also used as the theme song for Toho’s film “Oatari Sanshoku Musume” released the same year.
Hibari Misora’s rich, lustrous voice brilliantly expresses the townscape and harbor scenes of tropical Nagasaki, as well as the protagonist’s pure love.
You can almost picture her gazing at the sea from the hill of the cathedral or at the twilight over the foreigner’s residences, holding onto the hope that her beloved will return with the coming of spring.
It’s a perfect song for those who wish to savor a nostalgic atmosphere or immerse themselves in memories of bittersweet love.
Nagasaki SentimentGodai Shou
Set against the scenery of Nagasaki, a classic enka masterpiece has been born, weaving memories of a bittersweet love.
Evocative imagery—like walking along Dutch Slope in a light drizzle and the distant peal of Maria’s bells—leaves a lasting impression.
Released in May 2024 as Sho Godai’s third single, the song features lyrics by Kanade Hino’ura and composition by Hiroshi Tokuhisa.
With its profound emotional expression and distinctly Japanese sentiment, it’s sure to be beloved by fans.
It’s the perfect track for recalling a nostalgic love while savoring the charm of Nagasaki.
Nagasaki Secret SakeFujiwara Hiroshi
Set against the exotic backdrop of Nagasaki, this song by Hiroshi Fujiwara tenderly sings of bittersweet memories of love.
Weaving in Nagasaki’s scenery—Dutch Slope, the lights of Shinchi, and the foghorns of Dejima—it conveys the pain of heartbreak and lingering attachment.
Especially noteworthy is the sound of the erhu used in the accompaniment; its plaintive, gentle tone adds depth to the piece and resonates with listeners.
Released by King Records in February 2021, the single reached No.
47 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and stayed on the charts for seven weeks, capturing the hearts of many.
It’s a perfect track for those who want to savor Nagasaki’s charm while feeling the stirrings of love and a touch of melancholy.
Get on a boat from NagasakiItsuki Hiroshi
A song by Hiroshi Itsuki set in the port town of Nagasaki, depicting encounters with women from across Japan.
Released in August 1971, it became a major hit, reaching No.
4 on the Oricon charts.
The journey continues from Nagasaki to Kobe, from Yokohama to Beppu, and from Hakodate to Tokyo, told through an emotionally rich voice and wistful lyrics.
The unique loneliness of port towns and the women’s bittersweet feelings are beautifully expressed, making it a classic that deeply resonates with listeners.
It’s recommended for those who want to feel the charm of Nagasaki or savor the nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa era.
Nagasaki ShigureShimazu Etsuko
A masterpiece by Etsuko Shimazu that sings of Nagasaki’s charming rainy scenery while portraying the bittersweet love of two people.
With evocative images like Dutch Slope and the lights of Maruyama woven throughout, the song expresses—through a gentle, wistful voice—the figures of people who, though bearing wounds from the past, strive to find new happiness.
Released in October 2018, this gem carries on the lineage of enka set in Nagasaki while being spun with a contemporary sensibility.
It’s especially recommended for listening when visiting Nagasaki or on a rainy day.
Through this work, Nagasaki’s allure and the warmth of its people will surely seep into the listener’s heart.
Rain in Nagasakikawanaka miyuki
Set against the autumn scenery of Nagasaki, this song tells a heartrending love story.
Miyuki Kawanaka’s vocals beautifully convey the protagonist’s feelings as they think of their “once-a-year rendezvous” amid a gentle, spotty rain.
Specific place names like “Tojin Yashiki,” “Shianbashi,” and “Nakajima River” appear, vividly evoking the atmosphere of Nagasaki.
Released on January 1, 2011 to commemorate the 35th anniversary of her debut, the song was also used as a commercial theme for the TV Asahi network’s broadcast of the “Miyuki Kawanaka Special Performance.” It reached a peak of No.
12 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and stayed on the charts for 36 weeks, earning long-running support.
It’s a recommended track for those who want to feel the charm and travel romance of Nagasaki, or enjoy a gently soulful enka ballad.