[2026] Songs I Want to Try at Karaoke! A Roundup of Popular Showa-Era Kayōkyoku
Even in the 2020s, the songs that still enjoy unwavering popularity at karaoke are the kayōkyoku hits that colored the Showa era.
The term “Showa kayō” is well known even among younger generations, partly thanks to the global popularity of city pop and more.
Above all, there are simply so many timeless classics—these are beloved tracks that keep getting sung at karaoke across all ages.
For those of you who are eager to try singing Showa-era kayōkyoku, this article rounds up recommended popular karaoke picks, focusing mainly on hits from the 1970s and 1980s.
Every song is a famous tune you’ve likely heard at least once, so teens and people in their 20s—feel free to use this as inspiration for your karaoke repertoire!
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[2026] Songs I Want to Try Singing at Karaoke! Popular Showa-Era Kayōkyoku Tracks (11–20)
Tsugaru Strait – Winter SceneIshikawa Sayuri
This song, which depicts a journey from Aomori to Hokkaido, was released on January 1, 1977 and is known as one of Sayuri Ishikawa’s signature pieces.
It beautifully portrays the harsh winter scenery and the feelings of people returning to their hometowns, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released as a single from the album “365 Days of Love,” it became a major hit, winning numerous music awards that year, including the Japan Record Awards’ Vocal Performance Award and the FNS Music Festival Grand Prix.
Singing it at karaoke can make you feel as if you’re traveling aboard the Seikan ferry.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to in the winter season.
Lingering Snowiruka
Set against the backdrop of an unseasonal snowfall, this song of parting is distinguished by the gentle tones of acoustic guitar and Iruka’s clear, translucent vocals.
Released in 1975, it was written and composed by Shozo Ise and became a major hit when covered by Iruka.
Beloved by many as a song that symbolizes early spring in Japan, it has been passed down across generations.
Iruka debuted in 1971 with the folk group The Shrieks and launched her solo career in 1974.
She broke through the following year with this song, solidifying her status as a singer.
Why not try it as the perfect closing number after a lively karaoke session?
Blue Coral ReefMatsuda Seiko
It’s a classic song that vividly portrays a young woman’s first love against a refreshing tropical backdrop.
Seiko Matsuda’s clear, soaring vocals match perfectly with the cool, invigorating melody.
Released in July 1980, the track was also featured in a commercial for Glico’s “Yorel” ice cream and became a major hit.
As one of Matsuda’s signature early songs, it continues to be loved by many people today.
It’s also a great pick to try at karaoke.
The high notes can be a bit challenging, but if you adjust the key, it’s surprisingly singable—so give it a try!
Rainy MidosujiŌyō Fifi
It’s a masterpiece that beautifully fuses the streets of Osaka with a bittersweet longing for love.
Set along Midosuji, the lyrics depicting a woman searching for her lover in the rain are truly moving.
Released in 1971 as Ouyang Fei Fei’s debut single, it became a massive hit, topping the Oricon charts for nine consecutive weeks.
Seeing this Taiwan-born artist sing in Japanese surely brought a fresh breeze to the music scene of the time.
It’s a perfect song to play when visiting Osaka or when you want to heal the pain of heartbreak.
Sing it at karaoke, and it will surely touch your heart.
Azusa No. 2karyūdō
Here’s a must-hear masterpiece for fans of Showa-era pop.
The debut single by the twin-vocal duo Kariudo is a gem of a ballad themed around parting and new beginnings.
Its lyrics delicately portray the complexities of a woman’s heart, perfectly matched with a melody that truly resonates.
Released in March 1977, the song became a major hit, reaching No.
4 on the Oricon weekly chart.
It also won the New Artist Award at the Japan Record Awards.
If you’re singing it at karaoke, it’s perfect for times when you’re at a crossroads in love or life.
Put your feelings into it, and it’s sure to become a song that moves the heart.