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)
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.
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.
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.
Rain at Hase-dera — On the Yamato Road in Late AutumnToba Ichirō
The single “Hasedera no Ame ~Banshū no Yamatoji~,” sung by Ichirō Toba, will be released in April 2026.
It was originally the B-side to the single “Tomobai yo,” released in February 2025, but was promoted to the title track thanks to strong local support.
Set at Hasedera, an ancient temple in Nara Prefecture, this local enka song portrays a man’s heart swaying with an unbreakable love.
Recommended for those nursing the pain of heartbreak.
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.
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.
Snow CountryYoshi Ikuzo
This is a classic ballad written and composed by Ikuzo Yoshi himself, released on February 25, 1986.
It vividly portrays a snow-laden scene and a poignant woman’s heart, becoming a huge hit that even reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
I think many of you have heard the chorus.
The A section is relatively calm, so you can sing it without forcing your voice, but the song’s structure goes straight into the chorus without a B section; the chorus suddenly soars and includes high notes.
If you raise the intensity phrase by phrase, the excitement will build and your voice will come out more.
If you sustain the long notes firmly, it should feel great to sing.
