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 roundup of timeless classics loved across generations (21–30)
Fall in LoveKobayashi Akiko
A gem of a love song that portrays the aching feelings of a woman in love.
With moving lyrics by Reiko Yukawa and a beautiful melody composed by Akiko Kobayashi herself, this work harmonizes perfectly to vividly depict the delicate emotions of a woman suffering from a forbidden love.
Released in August 1985, it was also used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Friday Wives.” It topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart seven times and became a massive hit, ranking third on the 1985 year-end chart.
Even today, it continues to be beloved by people of all ages as a song that stays close to the hearts of those who harbor secret affections and wavering emotions.
Tokyo Boogie-WoogieKasaogi Shizuko
Sung during a performance in a Japanese stage play, this song rode the then-trendy boogie rhythm, and the sight of Shizuko Kasagi singing while dancing comically left a strong impression, bringing smiles across Japan.
As an aside, Miracle Hikaru’s impersonation—capturing even the texture of an old SP-recording—was also outstanding.
You are more beautiful than a rose.Fuse Akira
A breathtakingly beautiful masterpiece by Akira Fuse that deeply moves listeners’ hearts.
The lyrics, which marvel at the changes in a woman he meets again after a long time and praise her beauty by likening it to a rose, go beyond simple admiration of appearance to express her inner growth and confidence.
Released by King Records in January 1979, the song was also featured in a Kanebo Cosmetics commercial and became a major talking point.
It was performed four times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, and in 2007 former Takarazuka Revue performers rallied to support it on stage—proof of its enduring popularity across generations.
With lyrics that convey the complexities of love and mutual growth, this is the perfect song for those who want to feel the joy of reuniting with someone special and recognizing the true beauty that time reveals.
outdatedKawashima Eigo
This song is meant for men who get depressed by comparing themselves after seeing other people’s flashy lives on social media, and for the women who love such awkward men.
It’s filled with a passionate message that serves as a guide to staying grounded and living a life that isn’t swept away by the tides of the times.
Lullaby of a Serrated HeartChekkāzu
A classic hit from the Showa era is enjoying a revival in today’s times.
This song has been gaining popularity on YouTube Shorts.
Known as The Checkers’ debut single, it features distinctive lyrics that depict the rebellious feelings of youth.
Its 7-5 rhythmic pattern and sharp guitar sound leave a strong impression, drawing attention on YouTube Shorts.
Released in September 1983, the track was reappraised following its success the following year.
It was also used in the TV drama “Uchi no Ko ni Kagitte…,” becoming beloved by many.
On short-form videos, it seems to be trending to post youthful photos accompanied by personal anecdotes.
Meeting at ShuishiyingOkanoteiichi
The celebrated song that extols a sincere reconciliation between soldiers is a work by Teiichi Okano, included in 1910 (Meiji 43) in the fifth-year edition of the Elementary School Songbook.
While praising morale and valor, it portrays deep human compassion with the idea that “yesterday’s enemy is today’s friend,” and its message of respect and friendship toward a former foe still resonates today.
Recorded by the Barn Jacks on the album “Songs of Sorrow from the Battlefield” and featured as well in “Koichi Miura Collection: Masterpieces of Military Songs,” this piece vividly depicts raw scenes—bullet-scarred battle sites and collapsed homes—while powerfully singing of reconciliation and the wish for peace.
It is a song we especially recommend to those who wish to pass on the history of war and the preciousness of peace to the next generation, and to those who want to experience the spirit of Japan’s school songs and military songs.
TouchIwasaki Yoshimi
Classic Shōwa-era songs are enjoying revival hits on TikTok and YouTube Shorts.
The lyrics of Yoshimi Iwasaki’s song for a coming-of-age anime skillfully express feelings of love and heartbreak.
With impactful phrases penned by lyricist Chinfa Kan, it brilliantly captures the deep emotions of youth.
Released in 1985, the song is also included on the album “Touch” and is beloved by anime fans.
Composed and arranged by Hiroaki Serizawa, the intro—especially Ken Yajima’s guitar performance—is particularly memorable.
With its catchy melody and nostalgic vibe, it’s one of the popular tracks on YouTube Shorts.