[2026] Idol-Worthy! A Roundup of Handsome Male Enka Singers
When people think of enka, many might still picture a cool, stoic man in a kimono or a suit—even in the Reiwa era.
In the 2000s, figures like Kiyoshi Hikawa, who stood out at the time with dyed brown hair and earrings, come to mind.
But in today’s enka and kayōkyoku scene, a wave of young male enka singers with looks rivaling those of idols have been debuting one after another, stirring up excitement among younger audiences as well.
This article rounds up various young enka singers who have earned a reputation as heartthrobs in the enka and kayōkyoku world.
Once you discover their charm, you might just find yourself hooked on enka, too.
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[2026] Idol-Tier Looks! A Roundup of Handsome Male Enka Singers (11–20)
Mantōrō (Festival of Ten Thousand Lanterns)Harada Namito
Born in 2002, Namito Harada, an enka singer from Wakayama Prefecture, is gaining attention.
Influenced by his grandfather, he became familiar with enka from a young age and began singing at the age of four.
In January 2022, he made his debut with a pop-tinged enka song themed around a refreshing parting, earning popularity especially among karaoke fans and younger audiences.
Since then, he has continued to push beyond the boundaries of enka with challenges such as a collaboration with Tsunku♂.
In March 2024, he released his first full-fledged “onnagata” enka (a song from a woman’s perspective), showcasing his wide expressive range.
Standing 175 cm tall with handsome looks, Harada boasts idol-level popularity.
As he continues to take on new challenges as a next-generation enka singer while staying true to his love for the genre, he’s someone you won’t want to take your eyes off.
The bridges of PragueTakeshima Hiroshi
With a voice that combines refined allure and youthful energy, Hiroshi Takeshima is making waves as a rising star in the enka world.
Since his debut in July 2002, he has released numerous songs set against sophisticated European backdrops, such as “The Bridge of Prague.” In 2008, he formed the trio “Ikemen 3” with Daisuke Kitagawa and Keisuke Yamauchi, drawing major attention.
In 2021, he won the Composer’s Association Recommendation at the 63rd Japan Record Awards for “The Bridge of Prague,” further cementing his reputation.
Takeshima’s vocals—marked by narrative-rich lyrics and polished melodies—breathe new life into enka, evoking a mature atmosphere while feeling fresh.
Balancing tradition with continual innovation, Takeshima’s music is sure to captivate you.
Great Catch TaikoIchijō Kanta
Kanta Ichijo is a young enka singer from Chiba Prefecture who has been attracting attention.
After graduating from Rissho University, he pursued a career in enka and made his major debut in 2018 with “Futari no Shihatsu-eki.” Known for his powerful vocals and contemporary arrangements, he has steadily gained recognition, winning the Japan Singers Association’s Best New Artist Award in 2018 and the New Artist Award at the 30th NAK Japan Popular Song Awards in 2020.
While he has a deep love for Showa-era enka, his versatility is also a draw, as he takes on mood kayō and jazz-infused kayō.
He often prefers leather jackets and jeans for his stage attire, showcasing a masculine and casual side.
He is a recommended artist for those who want to introduce the appeal of enka to younger generations.
promiseNakazawa Takuya
Takuya Nakazawa is gaining attention as a handsome enka singer.
Born in 1995 in Niigata Prefecture, he focuses on enka and kayōkyoku.
He made his major debut in January 2017 with “Aoi Diamond” and won the Newcomer Award at that year’s Japan Record Awards.
His clear voice and solid vocal technique captivate many fans.
Interestingly, Nakazawa also has an unusual background as a racing driver.
In 2023, he took his first victory in the Fuji 86/BRZ Challenge Cup, showcasing his talents in both music and motorsports.
Even if you’re not into enka, he’s highly recommended if you’re looking for a handsome, multi-talented singer.
A Man’s FistKimura Tetsuji
Teiji Kimura, who was born and raised in an enka family, made his debut as an enka singer in November 2022.
With his father being Ichirō Toba and his uncle Yutaka Yamakawa—both giants in the enka world—Kimura has drawn attention for a powerful singing voice that reflects his lineage.
His debut song, Nidaime (Second Generation), was written and composed by his older brother, Ryūzō Kimura, making it a work that conveys strong family ties.
In December 2023, he won the New Artist Award at the 65th Japan Record Awards, raising expectations for him as a rising star in the enka scene.
His voice, praised as a “hard-hitting, iron voice,” combines strength with delicacy and has gained popularity among younger listeners.
He’s also known for his hobby of weight training, making him a figure who challenges the conventional image of enka singers.
Even those who weren’t interested in enka may find themselves drawn to Kimura’s appeal.
The flower of NadeshikoYūji Matsuo
Yushi Matsuo, a native of Isahaya City in Nagasaki Prefecture, is an enka singer born in 1991.
He captivates audiences with his 180 cm tall stature and a distinctive vocal style that features rolled r’s, while the contrast between his sweet looks and hard-edged singing draws fans in.
Debuting in 2012 as a newcomer commemorating the 50th anniversary of Nippon Crown, Matsuo won the “Inquiry Award” at the Japan Cable Awards with his debut single Kuchi-nashi Bojo (Gardenia Longing).
He has continued to work vigorously, achieving the remarkable feat of debuting at No.
1 on the Oricon enka chart for four consecutive releases.
In June 2021, he held his 8th-anniversary concert at the Nerima Cultural Center’s large hall in Tokyo, enchanting many fans.
As a leading young enka singer, he continues to bring fresh winds to the enka world with a unique style that honors tradition while blending in contemporary sensibilities.
[2026] Idol-tier! Handsome Male Enka Singers Roundup (21–30)
I Won’t Forget ~Promise~Hyōgo Ken’ichi
Kenichi Hyogo is a talented singer from Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, known for his wide-ranging repertoire from kayōkyoku to J-pop.
He made his full-fledged debut in 2007 and is recognized for songs that have been used as TV program theme songs.
In fact, he has the distinction of winning the Prime Minister’s Award at the 2001 Jaccom Music Festival, selected from about 10,000 applicants.
After working as a company employee, he embarked on a “solo singing journey,” driving his own campaign car across the country—his earnest dedication has won the hearts of many fans.
His warm voice, which gently resonates with listeners, is also one of his charms.
If you love straightforward kayōkyoku that values human bonds and kindness, he’s an artist we highly recommend.