[2026] A Collection of Classic Enka and Kayōkyoku Songs About Nagasaki [Local Songs]

It was rainy again in Nagasaki today.Uchiyamada Hiroshi to Cool Five

It was rainy again in Nagasaki today.

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.

Woman of NagasakiKasuga Hachirō

Woman of Nagasaki

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.

Nagasaki BluesAoe Mina

Nagasaki Blues

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.

Madame Butterfly of NagasakiMisora Hibari

Madame Butterfly of Nagasaki

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.

Get on a boat from NagasakiItsuki Hiroshi

Get on a boat from Nagasaki

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 SentimentGodai Shou

Godaisho “Nagasaki Longing” MUSIC VIDEO

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.

Rain in Nagasakikawanaka miyuki

Miyuki Kawanaka “Nagasaki no Ame” Music Video (full ver.)

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.