Enka Path: A collection of enka songs that liken life to a road

Midway through life’s journeySatō Yoshito

Yoshito Sato “Life, Midway Along the Road” Music Video

You’ll be drawn in by its majestic tone.

“Life, Halfway Along the Road” is a song by Yoshito Sato from Yamagata Prefecture, released in December 2024.

It’s an enka piece that portrays life as it is, and as the song progresses, the feeling embedded in the lyrics—of moving toward one’s dreams—grows stronger, stirring the heart.

When you find yourself feeling reflective about life, this song will surely resonate.

Be sure to listen closely and take it all in!

In the Sun and the DustCHAGE and ASKA

[MV] In the Sun and Dust / CHAGE and ASKA

A powerful pop number that captures the sparkle of youth and the struggles of life.

Released as a single by CHAGE and ASKA in January 1991, this work warmly portrays young people who carry dreams and hopes while confronting a reality that doesn’t go their way.

Its lyrics, interweaving the joy and poignancy of living, leave an even deeper impression through a beautiful, resonant melody and effective use of synthesizers.

Chosen as a re-cut single from the album “SEE YA,” it gained wide support after being featured in a Nissin Foods commercial and as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s program “TIME3.” When you feel overwhelmed by work and daily life and want to pause to face your own heart, this song will be there to gently stay by your side.

Before anything else, from atop the roadIsseifubi Sepia

Issei Fubi Sepia “Dear Sir/Madam, From Above the Road” [Official]

This track, distinguished by lively festival-like drums and flutes, weaves in themes that deeply reflect on the meaning of life and personal values through scenes of nature.

While questioning the purpose of living and our reason for being, it delivers a powerful message of courage and hope in the face of hardship.

Released in June 1984 as the debut single of Ikkyo Fubi Sepia, it reached No.

5 on the Oricon charts.

It was also used in commercials for SUZUKI’s scooter “Love THREE” and Kirin Beer’s “Kirin Shochu Tanrei Straight,” gaining popularity across a wide audience.

It’s a song that gives you the strength to face forward and keep walking when you’re at a crossroads in life, feeling lost or anxious.

Wind cherry blossomSatō Akemi

Akemi Sato “Kaze Zakura (Wind Cherry Blossoms)” Official Music Video

This is a distinctly Japanese lyrical song that portrays ways of living through contrasts.

Akemi Sato’s clear, translucent voice deftly conveys the song’s delicate emotions.

Created by the renowned duo of lyricist Takahiro Maeda and composer Shunichi Makaino, the piece was released in February 2025.

While celebrating the importance of living true to oneself, it movingly captures the profound expressive power of depicting life’s opposing emotions—joy and sorrow.

It’s a perfect track for moments when you want to pause in your daily life and reflect on yourself.

The graceful melody, harmonizing the tones of traditional Japanese instruments with modern arrangements, is also part of its charm.

A Man’s LifeKitajima Saburō

A Man's Life

A heartfelt, powerful song that reexamines the joys and sorrows of life and celebrates living with sincerity.

It carefully weaves together a half-life spent overcoming hardships and trials while valuing duty and truth.

Released by Saburo Kitajima in January 2011, this work conveys the sentiments of his more than 50-year career in show business with a mature vocal performance that deeply resonates with listeners.

While honoring the traditional flavor of enka, the song features contemporary arrangements that give it a profoundly moving quality that sinks into the heart.

It is a gem of a masterpiece to listen to when you stand at a crossroads in life or want to savor your gratitude toward someone important.

A man’s single-minded resolveYamazaki Teiji

Teiji Yamazaki / A Man’s Resolve

It’s a weighty song that sings of heartfelt conviction.

Performed by Teiji Yamazaki, it was released in January 2025.

His vocals, blending strength with melancholy, leave a strong impression.

The lyrics beautifully teach the importance of “sticking to your own path.” It’s perfect for those standing at a crossroads in life or wanting to reexamine how they live.

As an encouraging anthem that gives you courage, it’s sure to resonate with many hearts.

the sunShimazu Aya

Aya Shimazu “Otentosama” Music Video (Short Ver.)

A song in which Aya Shimazu’s vocals seep into the heart, gently illuminating the journey of life.

Released in May 2024, this track is characterized by lyrics that anyone can relate to and a richly emotional melody.

Like the “oten-to-sama” (the sun), it conveys the importance of accepting yourself just as you are.

As an encouraging anthem that gives you a push to overcome any hardship, it’s sure to become a source of strength for many.

It’s a must-listen for those going through tough times or anyone seeking the courage to live true to themselves.