Nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1970s: the golden age of idols and kayōkyoku (Japanese pop songs)
What songs come to mind when you think of Japanese hit songs from the 1970s?
Those who lived through that era in real time probably recall a wide range of hits.
With the spread of color television, people began to enjoy music from a visual perspective as well.
The 1970s are often called the golden age of kayōkyoku and idols.
Even generations who weren’t yet born will find many familiar, approachable songs that make you think, “Hey, I’ve heard this before!”
Please enjoy these captivating hit songs from the 1970s!
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Nostalgic Japanese Hit Songs of the 1970s: The Golden Age of Idols and Kayōkyoku (31–40)
Polyushka-PolyeNaka Masami
A hit song from 1971.
Known for being sung by the Red Army Choir, it is a piece that praises the exploits of the Red Army during the Russian Revolution, to which lyricist Jun Hashimoto added Japanese lyrics that can be read as a love song, yet remain as grand and expansive as the Russian land.
It was an unusual song even at the time, but doesn’t it still feel fresh today?
Swim! Taiyaki-kunShimon Masato
The year 1976 was when an overwhelmingly monumental single that would go down in the records of Japan’s music scene was released.
It was “Oyoge! Taiyaki-kun,” which recorded higher record sales than any hit by Utada, AKB, Southern All Stars, or Fukuyama.
Journey of the Heartchūrippu
Although we had released two singles and two albums since our debut, none were hits, and this song was born at a time when we were saying that if the next one didn’t sell, we’d go back to our hometown.
It was released by Toshiba Musical Industries on April 20, 1973, and sold 508,000 copies.
Lyrics and music by Kazuo Zaitsu.
The Day the Seagulls FlewWatanabe Machiko
Machiko Watanabe’s second single, released in April 1978.
Its brisk, up-tempo feel is striking, and the lyrics—overlaying thoughts of a former lover with the free flight of a seagull—resonate deeply.
The evocative imagery that recalls the sea of Yokosuka is another highlight.
The single sold 460,000 copies and achieved the feat of winning the Japan Record Award for Best New Artist.
In 2007, a special stadium version was produced for use at Chiba Lotte Marines games.
This song explores universal themes—parting with a lover and the yearning for freedom—that anyone can relate to.
ChampionArisu
It’s a signature song by the folk trio composed of Shinji Tanimura, Takao Horiuchi, and Toru Yazawa.
It’s an empowering track about a champion who, after time has passed and their peak is behind them, rises to their feet once more.
Perhaps some in the father’s generation—who have aged and now see the next generation in the spotlight—find courage in this song.
Nostalgic Japanese hit songs of the 1970s: The golden era of idols and kayōkyoku (41–50)
interaction; friendly contact; bondingNakamura Masatoshi
This is Masatoshi Nakamura’s biggest hit song, and he became extremely popular through his standout performances in youth dramas like “Oretachi no Tabi.” It’s one of those masterpieces where the tenderly sung feelings of love’s sorrow, pain, and emptiness resonate quietly like a ballad, gently reaching the ears and deeply touching the heart.
My Pure LadyOzaki Ami
A hit song from 1977.
I was captivated by its refreshing melody and vocals, but even more so by its use in Shiseido’s lipstick commercial—the sleek beauty of Asami Kobayashi, appearing with a short haircut, made this song feel exceptionally beautiful.