Classic enka songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: recommended popular tracks
Enka, the genre of music that helped energize Japan up through around the 1980s.
Countless masterpieces were born in this field of enka.
This time, we’re featuring the crème de la crème—timeless enka hits that defined their eras and are perfect for singing at karaoke.
From well-known classics to hidden gems known only to aficionados, we’ve selected songs across a wide range of years and styles, so be sure to find the one that suits you.
We’re introducing quite a number of tracks, making this a great pick for anyone who wants to reminisce alongside enka.
Famous enka songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: recommended popular tracks (1–10)
And… a fateful encounterItsuki Hiroshi
It’s sad but a reality of this world that sometimes a man and a woman must part ways even while still in love.
If I were to meet the woman I once longed for after we’d separated with lingering feelings, the song I’d want to sing to her, as if talking over drinks, would be Hiroshi Itsuki’s “Soshite Meguriai (And Then, We Meet Again).” Let yourself be carried away by its wistful, melancholic melody.
I’m falling in love with you againSakamoto Fuyumi
The beautiful, crystal-clear song Mata Kimi ni Koishiteru, sung by Fuyumi Sakamoto, is a masterpiece whose perfect pairing of lyrics and melody is deeply moving.
It was released in January 2009 as Sakamoto’s 37th single.
The song was originally released and performed in 2007 by the famous folk duo Billy BanBan, and Sakamoto’s cover version became a huge hit.
Nostalgic JonkaraHosokawa Takashi
This is a song released by Takashi Hosokawa in 1985.
It depicts someone who moved to Tokyo reminiscing about their hometown in the Tsugaru region.
The song prominently features Hosokawa’s signature high tones and includes folk-style sections.
It was performed four times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
At the 27th Japan Record Awards, it won the Gold Award, and it is considered one of Hosokawa’s signature songs.
pinwheelYoshi Ikuzo
Ikuzo Yoshi is known for his masterful vocals and moving lyrics.
This gentle ballad quietly portrays the lives of people living in the city.
The image of the protagonist carrying unspoken feelings while days spin on like a windmill is especially striking.
Expressed through Yoshi’s unique perspective on life and encounters, the song was released in July 2024.
It stands as a special work within his long career.
It’s best enjoyed alone on a quiet night—the melody and lyrics will seep into your heart and leave a deep impression.
Dotonbori SentimentTendō Yoshimi
This classic song that celebrates Osaka’s warm-hearted spirit is a piece that makes full use of Yoshimi Tendo’s exceptional vocal talent.
It brilliantly captures the lively atmosphere of Dotonbori and the strength of the people who live there.
Released in December 1985, it became a massive hit, selling 800,000 copies within two years.
It was performed multiple times on NHK’s Kouhaku Uta Gassen, and in 2000, Yoshimi Tendo performed it as the Red Team’s final act.
This is the perfect track for anyone who wants to feel the flavor of Osaka or rediscover the appeal of enka.
Sing it at karaoke, and you’re sure to move the people around you.
Kiyoshi’s Zundoko SongHikawa Kiyoshi
For a mood-lifting karaoke pick, I’d go with Hikawa’s “Kiyoshi no Zundoko Bushi,” which has a comfortable tempo and brightens your spirits.
The Zundoko Bushi traces its roots to regional folk music sung in places like coal mines and fishing ports, and it became a popular song in Japan around the mid-1940s.
Woman’s DepartureMatsubara Nobue
A signature work by Nobue Matsubara that brought a fresh breeze to the world of enka.
The lyrics strikingly depict a woman’s delicate feelings and inner strength.
Centered on the theme of setting sail, it skillfully expresses the anticipation and anxiety of a new life, as well as the poignancy of parting.
Released in 1979, this song is also known as Matsubara’s debut single and won the New Artist Award at the Japan Record Awards that year.
Highly recommended not only for enka fans, but also for anyone standing at a crossroads in life.
Sing it at karaoke, and you’re sure to feel a moving resonance in your heart.
Crossing Amagi PassIshikawa Sayuri
If you want an enka-style love song, I recommend Sayuri Ishikawa’s “Amagi-goe.” If you sing it with heartfelt emotion—expressing the passionate feelings of a woman—right in front of the man you like and confess your love, he will surely accept your feelings.
“Amagi-goe” was released in July 1986, and MLB player Ichiro used it as his walk-up song during the 2008 season.
cherry shellItsuki Hiroshi
This is a single released by Hiroshi Itsuki in 2014 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his entertainment career.
Although it was originally included on a 1997 album, the song was re-recorded and released as a single.
It reached No.
1 on the Oricon Enka/Kayō single chart dated March 31 and April 7, 2014, making it a fitting highlight for his 50th anniversary.
Kokoro KaleidoscopeYamauchi Keisuke
A heartfelt song by Keisuke Yamauchi, the “Prince of Enka,” likening life’s complexity and beauty to a kaleidoscope.
Released in March 2023 as his 23rd single, it has drawn attention as a milestone work marking his 40th birthday.
The song portrays the hope that lies beyond one’s limits and the wonder of cherishing each moment, resonating deeply with listeners.
Yamauchi positions it as the “opening of Chapter Three,” embarking on new musical challenges.
Through this track, it conveys a desire to give courage for everyday battles.
For karaoke, it’s recommended to start singing gently with a touch of humidity in your voice, then gradually add dynamics.
Why not try performing this piece yourself with a voice that speaks to the heart?