Nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1960s. A collection of popular Showa-era classic melodies.
The Tokaido Shinkansen opening, the advent of color TV, the Beatles’ visit to Japan, Astro Boy, the Apollo 11 moon landing, and more…
The 1960s were a decade energized by a wide array of new cultural phenomena amid the era of rapid economic growth.
In 1964, Tokyo also hosted the Olympic Games.
In music, from kayōkyoku to sounds influenced by foreign styles, one of the charms of the ’60s is that you can actually enjoy a rich variety of tastes.
Some legendary artists from that time are still active today! From among the classic songs that lit up the hit charts of the tumultuous Shōwa era, we’ve thoroughly researched a selection of nothing-but-recommended nostalgic tracks from the ’60s.
You might rediscover a longtime favorite or stumble upon a wonderful new tune! Please enjoy these timeless masterpieces that continue to resonate in the hearts of the Japanese people, even as the times keep changing.
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Nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1960s: A collection of popular Showa-era oldies (71–80)
Season of LovePinkī to Kirāzu
It was released in 1968 as Pinky and the Killers’ debut single.
The song was a massive hit, selling a total of 2.7 million copies, and it won the New Artist Award at the 10th Japan Record Awards.
It was also so popular at the time that they made their first appearance at the 19th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen at the end of 1968.
Song of Circumnavigating Lake BiwaPegī Hayama
A classic song that sings of travel and the bittersweetness of youth against the backdrop of Shiga’s beautiful nature.
Peggy Hayama’s warm, wistful vocals resonate with many listeners.
Covered in 1962, this piece gained popularity second only to the big hits by Yukio Hashi and Sayuri Yoshinaga.
The lyrics, which trace a clockwise journey around Lake Biwa, vividly portray the lakeside scenery and a lovestruck young woman.
Conveying a sense of unity with nature and the romance of travel, the song evokes the beauty and culture of Japan.
It’s a perfect choice for those who want to savor the nostalgic Showa-era atmosphere or seek a gentle, soothing melody.
A rose has bloomed.Maiku Maki
This song, released by Mike Maki in 1966, was broadcast on NHK’s television and radio program Minna no Uta from June to July 1966.
On Minna no Uta, it was performed in a choral style by Mike Maki and the Nishi-Rokugo Children’s Choir.
Thanks to the song’s success, he made his first appearance at the 17th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
Song of the DawnKishi Yoko
Released in 1964 by Yoko Kishi, the song was also used as the theme for a Nikkatsu-produced musical film of the same name starring Ruriko Asaoka.
Known as one of Kishi’s signature songs, it earned her the Singing Award at the 6th Japan Record Awards and led to her first appearance at the 15th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen in 1964.
Misty Lake MashuFuse Akira
It was Akira Fuse’s fifth single, released in 1966.
The lyrics were written by Tetsu Mizushima, who was also a reporter for the Yomiuri Shimbun, and the music was composed by Masaaki Hirao.
Set at Lake Mashu—known as the clearest lake in Japan—it is also well known as a local song of Teshikaga in Kawakami District, Hokkaido, and is one of Akira Fuse’s signature songs.
king (shogi piece)Murata Hideo
Released in 1961, this song by Hideo Murata became his biggest hit, selling over 1.5 million copies at the time.
The lyrics are based on Sankata Sankichi, a shogi player who was active in Osaka, and it is a classic that Murata performed four times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
I love you more than anyone.Matsuo Kazuko & Wada Hiroshi & Mahina Sutāzu
A timeless classic that colored the music scene of the Showa era.
This gem of a song was born from the collaboration between Kazuko Matsuo and Hiroshi Wada & Mahina Stars.
Its wistful melody and heartfelt lyrics strike a deep chord with listeners.
Released in December 1959, it won the 2nd Japan Record Award, and in 1960 it became the theme song for a film of the same name.
Singing of true love, the piece has an approachable feel that makes you hum along when you hear it at a snack bar.
It’s a warm track that makes you want to lean on someone’s shoulder.
While evoking the spirit of Japan’s period of rapid economic growth, it continues to be beloved by many to this day.