A classic Japanese folk song passed down through generations of acoustic performances
A special feature on Japanese folk songs.
Folk music originally began as arrangements of traditional songs and spread in the United States.
From around the 1960s, it was also embraced in Japan, and, reflecting the times, songs with strong anti-war and anti-government messages were delivered.
Entering the 1970s, it became especially popular with more accessible, mainstream themes and reached a peak of commercial success.
Although Japanese folk has evolved to incorporate various elements, it retains an acoustic allure and a wistful mood, with lyrics that stand out and resonate.
By all means, take your time and immerse yourself in Japanese folk music!
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- The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at your heartstrings. Tear-jerker songs from the Showa era.
- Recommended ballads for men: classic songs about love, encouragement, and youth.
Timeless Japanese folk song classics passed down through solo performances (11–20)
loveMatsuyama Chiharu
A warm song that gently embraces a bittersweet longing for love.
It delicately portrays the complex emotions of a woman and resonates deeply with listeners.
Chiharu Matsuyama’s powerful yet tender vocals perfectly capture the feelings of a woman weary from love.
Released in 1980, this work remains one of Matsuyama’s signature songs, beloved by many.
Recommended for those struggling with matters of the heart or holding deep feelings for someone special.
Why not listen to it quietly at night? It will surely be an experience that soaks into your heart.
So sad I can’t bear itNEW!Okuda Tamio
This is a deeply evocative track in which Tamio Okuda covers a folk-song standard.
The original’s unique sense of melancholy overlaps with Okuda’s unadorned vocals, resonating deep in the chest.
Rather than forcing the emotion, the guitar plays with a calm yet warmly supportive tone that leaves a strong impression.
It was included as the B-side to the single “Hana ni Naru,” released in March 2002, and has been praised as a hidden masterpiece.
Try listening to it on unbearably lonely nights or when you want to pause for a moment.
It’s sure to make your heart feel a little lighter.
Sugarcane fieldMoriyama Ryoko
A work that is moist, gentle, yet powerfully resonant.
It’s a message song that laments the sorrows of war while embodying a wish for peace.
Ryoko Moriyama’s clear, transparent voice gently nestles close to the heart like a breeze passing through a sugarcane field.
First recorded in 1969, it went on to be widely sung as an anti-war song.
At the 2005 Kohaku Uta Gassen, she performed a duet with her son, Naotaro Moriyama.
It was also adapted into a drama in 2003, leaving a deep impression on many people.
This is a song to listen to when you want to reflect on peace or think of someone dear.
If you listen quietly, you’re sure to discover something new.
Song of DepartureKamijō Tsunehiko & Rokumonsen
This song begins with the protagonist’s gaze lifting to the dry sky.
It carries feelings for days gone by and a determination to make a fresh start.
The words and tones woven by Tsunehiko Kamijō and Rokumonsen gently resonate with listeners’ hearts.
Released in June 1971, the work won the Grand Prix at the World Popular Song Festival, and later became a major hit, selling 700,000 copies as a single.
In 1974, it was included in a high school music textbook and has continued to be cherished by many.
It’s the perfect track for anyone about to take a new step forward—sure to inspire hope for the future.
early summerfuki no tō
A song by Fuyunotou that gently depicts the landscapes of Hokkaido.
Released in May 1975 as their third single, it helped boost their popularity as a folk duo.
The lyrics are striking, featuring local landmarks like the Clock Tower.
It delicately captures the scene of a quiet early-summer afternoon and the loneliness that lingers in the air.
Its acoustic charm and bittersweet melody resonate deeply.
Recommended for those who want to rediscover the appeal of Hokkaido or recall nostalgic scenery.
A track that makes you want to take a peaceful walk.