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.
- Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 1970s
- Cool masterpieces of enka, the heart of Japan
- Enka Karaoke Popularity Rankings [2026]
- Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 1980s
- [For Women] A roundup of enka songs that can score high in karaoke
- Enka songs that are easy for men to sing: a roundup of tracks to try at karaoke
- Easy-to-sing enka: A roundup of recommended enka songs for karaoke
- [Showa Era] A Collection of Enka Hits: Timeless Classics Loved Across Generations
- [2026] Representative Famous Enka Songs: A Compilation of Classic Favorites [Beginner-Friendly]
- [Songs from the Showa Era] Introducing classic tracks that are easy to sing at karaoke.
- [Enka] Songs That Are Easy to Sing Even for the Tone-Deaf [Male Singer Edition]
- [Japan’s Best Vocalist] Fukuda Kohei’s Easy-to-Sing Karaoke Songs
- A roundup of hit enka songs from the Heisei era
Enka Masterpieces You’ll Want to Sing at Karaoke: Recommended Popular Songs (71–80)
grandchildŌizumi Itsurō
A signature song by Itsuro Oizumi that sings of deep love for a grandchild.
Released in 1999, it brought a fresh breeze to the enka world.
Told from a grandfather’s perspective, it warmly portrays watching a grandchild grow, conveying family love that transcends generations.
There are versions for a boy and for a girl, each with lyrics tailored to their respective stages of growth, which adds to its charm.
The song won the Excellent Work Award at the 42nd Japan Record Awards.
It’s recommended not only for enka fans but for anyone who cherishes family.
Sing it at karaoke, and it’s sure to warm your heart.
Wharf of TransienceYamauchi Keisuke
This is a single released by Keisuke Yamauchi in 2016, which debuted at No.
5 on the Oricon chart—his first-ever top-five entry since his debut.
Following his previous release, Spotlight, it became another hit for him.
Known for his handsome features and especially popular among women, he is regarded as one of the promising young enka singers to watch.
A Flower of This WorldShimakura Chiyoko
Released in 1955 as Chiyoko Shimakura’s debut single, this work became a massive hit, selling two million copies within six months of its release.
The lyrics, themed around youth and first love, poignantly portray the hearts of young maidens, likened to a variety of flowers.
The melody and lyrics blend beautifully, creating a masterpiece that resonates deeply with listeners.
A film of the same title was produced in 1977, and the song has continued to be cherished by many over the years.
It’s a perfect choice not only for those who want to sing enka at karaoke, but also for anyone seeking a song that speaks to the heart.
Why not revisit your youthful memories through Chiyoko Shimakura’s voice?
Classic enka songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: recommended popular tracks (81–90)
Aizen Katsura Once MoreShimazu Aya
Aya Shimazu is one of Japan’s leading enka singers.
While she is known for her wide-ranging musicality, she also boasts overwhelming vocal prowess in the enka genre.
Speaking of her signature songs, this is the one.
This piece, which passionately expresses deep gratitude to a father and memories of youth, was released in October 2012.
Set against the nightscape of Tokyo, its lyrics portraying life’s challenges and hopes strike a chord.
It’s recommended not only for enka fans but also for anyone who wants to feel the love of family and the truths of life.
Aya Shimazu’s emotionally rich voice will gently warm your heart.
My shopShin Gorō
A triple-meter kayōkyoku by Shingorō Shin, inspired by a real bar in Saitama Prefecture.
The lyrics, told from a regular’s perspective, feature three archetypes: the guy living alone, the married guy, and the first-timer.
Shin’s warm voice gently sings of the bonds among the people who gather at the bar.
Released in January 2024, the song drew attention as his first single after moving to Nippon Crown.
It’s a track you’ll want to savor slowly with your favorite drink in hand—perfect not only for enka fans, but also for anyone longing for the cozy glow of a neighborhood pub.
The Last DrinkKimura Tetsuji
A song by Tetsuji Kimura that brings a sweet, heartrending farewell vividly to life.
With a soda-and-barley drink before them, the lyrics capture the aching emotions of two people who have resolved to part.
Kimura’s powerful vocals convey both the sorrow and the beauty of goodbye, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released in February 2024 and winner of the 65th Japan Record Awards New Artist Award, this track fully showcases Kimura’s talent.
Written by his older brother, Ryuzo Kimura, it’s a wonderful piece that also reflects the brothers’ bond.
It’s a song we especially recommend to anyone feeling the fragility of love or the pain of parting.
a pittanceKatsura Ginshuku
One of Kim Yonja’s signature songs, known for her husky, emotional vocals.
This deeply evocative enka portrays the feelings of a woman who tries to face a heartbreaking farewell with optimism.
Released in April 1987, it became a major hit, staying on the Oricon charts for 47 weeks.
She performed it at the 1988 NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, leaving a lasting impression on many.
It’s also very popular in karaoke and beloved by people of all ages.
When facing a breakup or a crossroads in life, listening to this song may help soothe your heart.
Kim Yonja’s soul-stirring voice will surely be there to comfort you.