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.
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- [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.
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- [Showa Era] A Collection of Enka Hits: Timeless Classics Loved Across Generations
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- 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 (1–10)
Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu
One of the iconic songs of the Showa era, it continues to resonate closely with many people.
The lyrics, which gently depict young people gazing up at the night sky, pursuing modest happiness and their dreams, are especially memorable.
Originally written as the theme song for a 1960 musical, it became a massive hit after Kyu Sakamoto covered it in 1963, earning the Composer’s Award at the 5th Japan Record Awards.
Set against the backdrop of Japan’s period of rapid economic growth, it has been cherished as a song symbolizing the hopes and efforts of young people who worked by day and studied by night.
It’s a track that gives you the courage to keep moving forward no matter what.
Message of RougeMatsutoya Yumi
This is a song distinguished by its lively rhythm and refreshing melody.
The story of a woman who discovers her boyfriend’s infidelity, leaves a message written in lipstick on the bathroom mirror, and boards a train to visit his mother is bold and humorous, making it especially appealing.
While it carries a cautionary message about cheating, it also presents a positive, strong female figure—one of Yumi Matsutoya’s masterpieces.
Released in February 1975 and included on the album COBALT HOUR, the track features chorus contributions from Tatsuro Yamashita and others, resulting in a vibrant sound.
In 1989, it was chosen as the opening theme for the film Kiki’s Delivery Service, and it has continued to be loved across generations.
With its bright and cheerful tone expressing powerful feelings toward a lover, this song gently encourages women struggling with romance and is highly recommended to many listeners.
clownNakajima Miyuki
This is a masterpiece by Miyuki Nakajima, whose melancholy waltz melody seeps deep into the heart.
Released in September 1979 as part of the single “Revival,” the song portrays a protagonist bound by unforgettable memories of love, trying to dull the pain with alcohol.
The way they hide their true sorrow and carry themselves with composure makes them seem like a lonely clown.
The piece is also known as a song provided to actor Jinhachi Nezu and has been covered by artists such as Naoko Ken.
It’s a track that quietly stays by the side of a solitary heart on nights when one cannot take a step forward from memories of the past.
Please give me wingsakai tori
Among the classic songs of the Showa era, this piece stands out with a special presence.
Its hope-filled lyrics and beautiful harmonies resonate deeply.
Released in February 1971 as a single by Akaitori (The Red Birds), it has continued to be loved by many people ever since.
It has even crossed eras to capture hearts, being used at the 1998 Nagano Olympics and the 2021 Tokyo Olympic opening ceremony.
This song is perfect for anyone who longs for dreams and freedom.
It’s a wonderful piece that reminds us of the importance of holding on to hope, no matter the times.
Strawberry Statement Once Againbanban
When I was a child, I won tickets to a live public recording of a Kansai local radio show, and the song Banba Hirofumi sang there still stays with me.
I imagine many people also looked up what kind of movie the title, “Strawberry Statement Once Again,” referred to.
Youth takes many forms depending on the era, but regardless of generation, the song poignantly captures emotions you can only feel at that time in your life, and I related to it deeply.
UFOpinku redii
Speaking of classic Showa-era hits, this song is indispensable.
Its unique lyrics about a romance with an alien and its catchy melody are irresistible.
The fresh storyline—of a woman bored with Earth men who falls in love with an extraterrestrial—sparks listeners’ imaginations.
Released in December 1977, it became a massive hit, selling about 1.55 million copies.
It also won the 20th Japan Record Award, dominating the music scene of the time.
The song was used in a Nissin Yakisoba U.F.O.
commercial and remains beloved across generations.
It’s highly recommended for fans of sci-fi films and those interested in innovative lyrics.
era; age; time; periodNakajima Miyuki
This song, known as an iconic masterpiece of the Showa era, is loved across generations for its lyrics that lead from deep sorrow to hope.
With the gentle message, “There were times like that, too,” it softly tells us that hardships will one day pass.
Released in 1975, it won the Grand Prix at a contest hosted by Yamaha.
In 2007, it was selected as one of the “100 Japanese Songs,” and in 2010 it was used as the ending theme for the Fuji TV drama Our Family’s History.
When you lose your way in life, listening to this song will surely give you the courage to look forward.
Wrapped in Miyuki Nakajima’s warm voice, let yourself feel the message that stays close to your heart.