Old songs from the Showa to Heisei eras: a collection of timeless classics loved across generations
These days, thanks to the widespread use of Spotify and Apple Music, people of all ages can easily listen to a wide variety of songs.
Social media platforms like TikTok have also sparked an increase in older songs becoming revival hits among young people.
In this article, we’ll be showcasing a selection of hit tracks from the Showa and Heisei eras all at once!
There are plenty of timeless masterpieces that haven’t lost their charm, so take this opportunity to give them another listen.
- [Songs from the Showa Era] Introducing classic tracks that are easy to sing at karaoke.
- Showa-era love songs: A roundup of timeless love songs cherished across generations
- Showa-era songs that went viral on TikTok / revival hit songs
- [Classic Showa Kayō Hits] The captivating Showa-era pop songs beloved even by younger generations
- Songs from the Heisei retro era that will get any generation excited! Timeless tracks you’ll want to listen to now.
- Popular Showa-era pop. Timeless hit songs.
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- [Nostalgic Songs] A compilation of classic anime themes that hit home for those born in the Showa and Heisei eras
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
- Hits that resonate across generations! Popular 1990s songs on TikTok
- [Showa Era] A Collection of Enka Hits: Timeless Classics Loved Across Generations
- Thrilling to Cool Showa-Era Tunes! Classic Songs from Female Singers and Artists of the Showa Period
- Songs to Enjoy in Summer! Classic Hits Special (Showa & Heisei)
Old songs from the Showa to Heisei eras: A collection of timeless classics loved across generations (61–70)
High-Teen BoogieGorin Mayumi
This is the seventh single, released in 1982, which also served as the theme song for the film High Teen Boogie.
With lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and music by Tatsuro Yamashita, it’s a number brimming with a sense of speed and youthful energy.
Try singing it while appreciating its high level of quality.
You are in full color.Ohtaki Eiichi
Even though he sadly passed away in 2013, this is one of the many masterpieces by Eiichi Ohtaki that continue to shine with his voice and distinctive world.
First released on the hit album “A LONG VACATION,” it was later included on a best-of album after his death in 2014 and put on CD.
I feel grateful for the evolution of our music culture that lets us still hear that softly spreading voice in CD-quality sound.
Cotton HandkerchiefŌta Hiromi
A Showa-era classic has become a revival hit in the Reiwa era! This song is hugely popular on YouTube Shorts as well.
Hiromi Ohta’s clear, delicate voice and the bittersweet love story make it a track that truly touches the heart.
Released in 1975, it became a massive hit, selling 867,000 copies.
As a song that bridged folk and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular music), it brought a fresh breeze to the music scene of the time.
The lyrics—evoking the sadness of a long-distance relationship and the contrast between city life and one’s hometown—remain deeply relatable to many even today.
It’s perfect for short videos to create a nostalgic mood.
An ideal pick for fans of love songs or anyone searching for something nostalgically timeless.
Love on the Yamanote LineKobayashi Akira
Known as the “Mighty Guy,” Akira Kobayashi not only starred in Nikkatsu’s Wataridori film series but also excelled as a singer across mood kayō and many other styles.
Surprisingly, he has quite a few comic songs as well.
“The Automobile Show Song” is pretty entertaining, but some lyrics refer to cars so old that only enthusiasts would get them, so here’s this track instead.
Released in 1964, it cleverly parodies the stations on the Yamanote Line within the lyrics.
Time has passed, but the station names haven’t changed, so it’s still easy to follow today.
The arrival of springKoyanagi Rumiko
It’s a warm, classic song that heralds the arrival of spring.
It delicately portrays scenes where happiness and bittersweetness intertwine: two people walking along the seaside, a girl’s feelings as she invites her boyfriend home for the first time, and conversations with her family.
Released in February 1973 as Rumiko Koyanagi’s seventh single, it was a popular hit that reached No.
4 on the Oricon charts.
The lyrics were written by Michio Yamagami, and the music was composed by Koichi Morita.
It’s recommended for moments when you want to reflect on the promise of new love and the bonds of family while wrapped in the warmth of spring.
Listen to the gentle vocals, and your heart will feel warmer.
Playback Part 2Yamaguchi Momoe
A signature hit by Momoe Yamaguchi—an idol from the Showa era whose image differs a bit from today’s idols.
Following “Akai Shogeki,” it sold over 500,000 copies.
Thanks to a TikTok trend where the performer glares at the camera and then, without changing expression, goes straight into the choreography, many young people today know this song.
When she performed it on NHK, it made news that the lyric mentioning “Porsche” was changed to “car.” A nostalgic track distinguished by its cool, well-placed breaks.
spring hazeIwasaki Hiromi
It’s a classic song that beautifully captures spring in the Showa era.
Set against a scene of cherry blossoms at sixty percent bloom, it poignantly sings of parting with a lover.
Hiromi Iwasaki’s transparent vocals perfectly express Michio Yamagami’s delicate lyrics and Kyohei Tsutsumi’s flowing melody.
Released on February 5, 1979, it was also featured on TBS Television’s “The Best Ten.” The lyrics, depicting emotions that sway with spring’s fickle weather, resonate with many listeners.
It’s a recommended track for those troubled by love or wishing to look back on bittersweet spring memories.