[1970s] Collection of Japanese hit songs. Nostalgic masterpieces of Japan
Japanese music in the 1970s saw incredible evolution across folk songs, Showa-era pop, idols, bands, and more.
From among them, we’ll introduce classic Japanese hits that everyone knows and that evoke a sense of nostalgia.
Many of these songs are still featured on music programs today and are covered by various artists—this song and that song alike.
You might use this list to immerse yourself in fond memories.
Of course, it’s also great for discovering something new.
Please enjoy the many massive hits and wonderful masterpieces that colored Japan in those days!
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1970s Japanese Hit Songs Collection: Nostalgic Classics of Japan (11–20)
The Bride of SetoKoyanagi Rumiko
A lyrical classic set against the Seto Inland Sea.
Rumiko Koyanagi’s crystal-clear voice beautifully captures the complex emotions of a bride.
Released in April 1972, the song’s lyrics, reflecting Japanese views on marriage at the time, leave a strong impression.
Against a backdrop of seas tinted by the evening glow, it weaves together hopes and anxieties about a new life.
It was so popular that it ranked 7th on NHK’s “200 Showa Songs That Stay in the Heart,” and has been covered by many artists.
It’s best enjoyed while picturing the beautiful scenery of Setouchi.
A perfect track for anyone wanting to savor the nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa era.
To Marie on Fifth AvenuePedoro & Kapurishasu
Formed in 1971.
In 1973, they released many classic ballads such as “Goban-gai no Marie e” (To Marie on Fifth Avenue) and “A Message to Johnny,” featuring Mariko Takahashi as the lead vocalist.
With Takahashi’s assured vocal ability, they deliver a smooth, mature world that is a pleasure to listen to.
applausechiaki naomi
A classic that is almost always featured on special programs about Showa-era pop.
It’s one of Naomi Chiaki’s signature songs, representing Japan’s music scene of the 1970s.
Praised for its dramatic vocal delivery and profound emotional expression, the song was released in September 1972 and won that year’s Japan Record Award.
The contrast between the singer’s radiant presence on stage and the deep sense of loss hidden within is striking.
The lyrics skillfully employ black-and-white imagery to portray the conflict between public and private selves.
It was remarkable in real time, of course, and it may resonate even more emotionally as time goes by.
A café in a student districtGaro
A classic song that portrays youthful days spent in a beloved coffee shop.
Its gentle melody and delicate lyrics resonate deeply with many listeners.
Released in June 1972, it became a major hit, topping the Oricon Singles Chart for seven consecutive weeks the following year.
Known as one of Garo’s signature songs, it has since been covered by various artists.
Set against the backdrop of Bob Dylan’s music, this piece evokes memories of the casual conversations shared with friends and lovers.
It’s a recommended track for when you want to rekindle nostalgic memories or reflect on time spent with someone special.
Whenever I arrive, it’s always raining.Za Moppusu
During the era when Group Sounds were popular, The Mops stood apart as a distinctly psychedelic rock band.
This song was a hit in 1972.
The vocalist, Hiromitsu Suzuki, later found success as a TV personality as well.
red lanternkaguya hime
An iconic presence of the folk song boom of the 1970s was the trio ‘Kaguyahime’—Kosetsu Minami, Shozo Ise, and Panda Yamada.
This song, in which vocalist Kosetsu gently sings of the melancholy everyday life of young people living in the city, won widespread support.
Strings of TearsTonosama Kingusu
A classic enka masterpiece that passionately sings of aching, unrequited love.
Released in 1973, it became a major hit and is one of Tonomama Kings’ signature songs.
The lyrics, which richly express a woman’s single-minded devotion, resonated with many listeners.
It topped the Oricon annual singles chart and garnered numerous honors, including the Popular Award at the Japan Record Awards.
Another draw is the many cover versions by artists such as Aki Yashiro and Kiyoshi Hikawa.
It’s the perfect song not only for those who have experienced heartbreak or parting, but also for moments when you want to savor your feelings for someone dear.
You’re sure to relate to the heartfelt vocals and lyrics filled with deep affection.
Black Cat TangoMinagawa Osamu
A children’s song released in October 1969 as Osamu Minagawa’s debut single.
Based on an original Italian song, Mizuho Miota wrote the Japanese lyrics.
The lyrics, which liken a black cat’s capricious personality to a lover, are distinctive and beautifully depict a cat’s eyes shining at night.
Released when he was six years old, the single sold over 2.6 million copies, setting the record for the youngest million-selling artist.
The song made Minagawa instantly famous, and he also thrived as a child actor.
Many listeners may feel a sense of nostalgia.
It’s a charming tune loved by a wide range of ages, from children to adults.
Woman’s PathMiya Shirō to Pinkara Torio
This song is known as a signature piece by Shiro Miya & Pinkara Trio.
It’s a classic that’s almost always featured on special programs about Showa-era pop.
Some people may also remember it being sung during a police-officer skit by Cha Kato on the variety show “It’s 8 o’clock! Everyone Gather!” Shiro Miya’s distinctive, velvety vocals draw you right in.
The lyrics evoke both delicate feelings of love and a sense of nostalgia.
Released in October 1972, the song topped the Oricon annual singles chart two years in a row, in 1972 and 1973.
It was remarkable in real time, of course, and it may resonate even more emotionally as time goes by.
The Scent of CyclamenFuse Akira
A masterpiece that likens the changing feelings of love to the colors of cyclamen, shifting with the seasons.
Akira Fuse’s overwhelming vocal prowess vividly depicts the fleeting yet beautiful scenes of love.
Released in April 1975, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon chart on May 19 of the same year.
It won numerous music awards and became a major hit, ranking second on Oricon’s year-end chart that year.
The song was performed multiple times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, including in 1975, and has continued to be cherished as one of Akira Fuse’s signature songs.
Highly recommended for those who want to feel the delicate nuances of emotion from the beginning of a romance to the farewell.