Enka has many songs that portray the ups and downs of life.
In good times and bad, enka stays close to our hearts.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of classic enka songs that compare life to a road.
Each of the songs we’re about to introduce tells a different story, so be sure to read the lyrics and listen carefully to each message.
You’re sure to find a song that will become a source of support for your heart.
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[Enka Road] A collection of enka songs that compare life to a road (1–10)
Pathway of the HeartAsahna Miho
Miho Asaka is a female singer from Yonago City in Tottori Prefecture who is drawing attention for her “uta-shibai,” a fusion of singing and theater.
From a young age, she performed on stage with her grandmother, continually captivating audiences with new-style dance and songs that include spoken lines.
Her song Kokoro no Hanamichi was composed by her mentor, Kenji Miyashita.
It’s a powerful, classic enka-style cheer song that encourages those who are single-mindedly pursuing their dreams—perfect for anyone ready to take a new step forward!
I go my own wayKitajima Saburō
A song packed with the weight of a life, powerfully affirming the path one has walked.
Released as a single in November 2025, it drew attention for extending an unprecedented streak of 64 consecutive yearly releases since his debut.
An album of the same name was released alongside it, distilling Saburo Kitajima’s unwavering conviction as he remains active even at age 88.
It portrays a man’s resolve to face hardships—rain and storms—head-on.
The arrangement moves from a steady, resonant low-mid register to a soaring chorus, lighting a passionate fire in the listener’s heart.
Trying one’s luckHarada Yuuri
Yuri Harada is a powerhouse singer known for hits like Kisoji no Onna, which achieved million-seller status.
Her richly expressive yet resolute voice—grounded in her background as a former music teacher—has captivated fans for many years.
Undameshi (Trial of Luck) is her milestone 60th release, a single issued in December 2025.
It’s a rousing anthem that encourages those facing adversity to seize their one and only life and take their shot.
Its brisk rhythm and soaring chorus will give listeners a strong push forward.
A perfect track for life’s turning points or those moments when you need one more burst of strength.
Courtesan of SatsumaOgawa Takeru
A work that strikes the heart with its passion for the performing arts and its longing for home.
Composed by Takeru Ogawa and released in August 2025, it features lyrics and music written by Ogawa himself, whose previous release, “Fragments of a Dream,” was also well received.
The lyrics portray the artistic journey of a young performer striving to become Japan’s finest onnagata, along with his yearning for his hometown.
The world it evokes—where an unwavering resolve to reach the summit intersects with sudden surges of love for family—deeply moves the listener.
Anyone who has left home to pursue a dream will surely relate.
It’s a dramatic track you’ll want to hear while reflecting on your own path.
There are various things. I’m a woman.Chō Hoyūki
A powerhouse vocalist celebrating her 40th debut anniversary, Yuki Nagaho.
“Iroiro Arimasu Onna Desu” sets a woman’s life story to a lively rhythm—she’s been made to cry by past loves, yet keeps looking ahead, believing in small happinesses.
While Nagaho has released many tender, mellow works, this song shines with a breezy, chic appeal.
It’s the perfect track for those moments when you want to sing away life’s ups and downs with a bright smile.
one-way ticketKitayama Takeshi
A deeply moving song that portrays a solitary departure, undertaken with the resolve never to return.
Written and composed by Joji Hara, his powerful yet gentle voice richly conveys both the determination to face a harsh journey and the quiet nostalgia held within.
Released in April 2004 as a debut single, the track achieved the remarkable feat of reaching No.
20 on the Oricon overall chart—at the time, the highest ranking ever for a solo debut by an enka singer.
This solid first step paved the way for later successes, including the acclaimed album “Ippo” (One Step) and “Yume Ichizu,” which was selected as the theme song for the TV drama “Suronin Tsukikage Hyogo.” It is a song that will resonate deeply with anyone standing at a crossroads, ready to venture onto a new path.
As long as life lastsTendō Yoshimi
This work can truly be called the pinnacle of “life enka,” a song that celebrates the strength to overcome life’s joys and sorrows.
Released by Yoshimi Tendo in January 2006, the track spent 38 weeks on the Oricon charts and captured the hearts of many.
The determined resolve to live for a loved one and the single-minded pursuit of dreams supported by a mother’s words unfold like a sweeping epic.
Tendo’s deep, warmly enveloping voice brings a dramatic richness to the lyrics’ world.
When you find yourself at a crossroads in life or in need of the strength to look forward once more, this song may gently nudge you onward.