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!
- [Showa Era] A roundup of nostalgic folk song classics and popular tracks you’ll want to sing at karaoke
- [Japanese Music] A Collection of Heart-Touching Hit Folk Songs from the 1970s
- [Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that really move you. Beloved classic Japanese hits of the past.
- Timeless classics only! Showa-era hit songs perfect for acoustic sing-alongs
- A poignant ballad song. A tear-jerking masterpiece of Japanese pop music.
- From classic folk dance staples to hidden gems. Introducing recommended tracks!
- [Resonates with the Heart] Masterpiece Ballads with Beautiful, Poignant Lyrics
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- [Hometown Songs] A curated selection of popular Japanese tracks that fill your heart with nostalgia
- A lineup of timeless masterpieces to pass down to future generations! Ballad songs born in the Reiwa era
- [Touching the Heart] Timeless Ballad Masterpieces. A Collection of Unfading Classics and the Latest Songs [2026]
- 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.
Classic Japanese folk song masterpieces passed down through acoustic performances (1–10)
So sad I can’t bear itZa Fōku Kurusedāzu
Released in 1968, this work is a masterpiece that portrays a heart-wrenching sadness.
It uses the sky and natural scenery symbolically to express a sense of inner loneliness in contrast with the vast beauty around it.
Hachiro Sato’s lyrics and Kazuhiko Kato’s melody are beautifully harmonized, reflecting the chaotic postwar era and the inexpressible emotions of individuals.
Featured in films and TV dramas, it has resonated with many people.
It’s recommended for times of deep sorrow or when you want to empathize with someone’s feelings.
You’ll feel a gentle, enveloping warmth, as if being softly held.
It’s the same wherever you are.NEW!Hanbaato Hanbaato
This song carries a warm message of always wanting to stay connected with you.
It’s included on the 20th-anniversary album “FOLK 3,” released in September 2021.
The music video drew major attention for featuring a collaborative appearance by the Asagaya Sisters, who are close friends of the artists.
This work gently conveys the preciousness of living side by side as a pair.
Give it a listen when you want to feel the presence of someone dear nearby or when you’re seeking a calm, peaceful mood.
MessageNEW!Hanbaato Hanbaato
This is a song that entrusts words—uncertain whether they’ll reach the other person—to the wind.
It was included on their first album, “for hundreds of children,” released in 2001.
Rooted in folk and country, its simple tones gently seep into the listener’s heart.
Considered a work that represents their origins, it opened the commemorative 20th-anniversary release “FOLK 2” in 2018.
It has been cherished in live performances for many years, showcasing the duo’s uniquely well-synced harmonies.
The unadorned words and melody will quietly and kindly stay by your side.
Grand banquetNEW!Hanbaato Hanbaato
While depicting a dazzling banquet, this remarkable piece is in fact singing about a funeral—filled with surprise and warmth.
It is included on the album “Makkurayami no Niramettsuko,” released in June 2008.
Eschewing gloom, it presents a distinctive view of life and death that treats death as a “departure,” which is part of its appeal.
It was also included on the live DVD released in 2015 and re-recorded for the 2018 album “FOLK 2.” Perfect for when you want to face the parting from someone dear with a positive outlook.
Spring, Summer, Autumn, WinterIzumiya Shigeru
Released in 1972 (Showa 47).
Shigeru Izumiya longed to play rock, but after a house fire destroyed his beloved electric guitar and amp, he turned to folk music that he could perform with just one guitar.
While it wasn’t an explosive hit, this song became one of his signature tracks and was later used as a TV drama theme.
Though Izumiya is known as a sharp-tongued singer, this song may be a message to himself—someone who overcame many hardships on the road to his debut.