![[2026] Compilation of Enka Singers from Kumamoto](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/lJTaDlw79zQ/maxresdefault.webp)
[2026] Compilation of Enka Singers from Kumamoto
When you hear “Kumamoto Prefecture and enka,” which singers or songs come to mind?
There’s the legendary enka singer born in Kumamoto, Sayuri Ishikawa, who sang the local Kumamoto song Hinokuni e.
And while she isn’t from Kumamoto, many will also recall Fuyumi Sakamoto scoring a hit with another classic Kumamoto local song, Hinokuni no Onna.
In this article, we’ve put together a roundup of enka singers hailing from Kumamoto, the so-called “Land of Fire.”
Be sure to check it out.
[2026] Compilation of Enka Singers from Kumamoto (1–10)
road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)Shimazu Aya
Aya Shimazu is an enka singer from Ueki-machi, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, who was called a “child prodigy” from a young age.
She debuted in 1986 with “Hakama o Haita Wataridori.” In 1991, she scored a hit selling over 300,000 copies with “Aizen Katsura o Mou Ichido,” and in 2001 she made her first appearance on the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen.
In recent years, she has ventured into pop with her “SINGER” series, and in 2024 she made her overseas debut.
At the 2018 Kohaku, she covered a famous song by Miyuki Nakajima, earning major acclaim for her vocal prowess.
She is a highly recommended artist not only for enka fans but also for anyone who wants to enjoy a wide range of musical genres.
Boat SongYashiro Aki
Aki Yashiro, known for her distinctive husky voice and celebrated as the queen of enka who thrived across genres, hails from Yatsushiro City in Kumamoto Prefecture.
She debuted in 1971 with “Ai wa Shindemo” and went on to release numerous hits, including “Namida Koi,” “Funauta,” and “Ame no Bojo.” In 1980 she won the Japan Record Award, and her talent is indisputable, having also closed out NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen two years in a row.
Beyond enka, she ventured into jazz and blues, earning international acclaim.
Why not experience the voice of this songstress Kumamoto is so proud of? It’s sure to resonate in your heart.
The Diva’s Grand StageHoriuchi Haruna
Haruna Horiuchi, known as a talented singer who grew up with enka from an early age and began her full-fledged activities at the age of 10, hails from Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture.
In April 2017, she released her first original CD, “Utahime Harubutai / Kagefumi,” and in 2019 she proved her ability by winning the Grand Prix at the 41st Kumamoto Prefectural Folk Song Championship.
With a powerful yet delicate voice and lyrics that resonate deeply, she has earned support from a wide audience.
In August 2021, she moved her base of activities to Tokyo to aim for further growth.
She is a recommended artist for those who want to deliver moving experiences across generations through enka.
Kumamoto BluesTakamiyagi Seiji
Seiji Takamiyagi, an enka singer from Kumamoto City in Kumamoto Prefecture, delivers a voice that resonates deeply with listeners’ hearts.
Born in 1948, Takamiyagi is active in the enka and kayōkyoku genres.
His signature songs include “Kumamoto Blues” and “Yokohama Blues,” through which he sings of various landscapes and the emotions of the people who live there.
He made his CD debut in May 2018 with “Yokohama Blues,” and has continued to release music energetically since.
In May 2020, he released the album “Seiji Takamiyagi ~Singing of Hometown~,” themed around his native land.
Takamiyagi’s appeal lies in his deep love for his hometown of Kumamoto and a singing voice that gently accompanies people’s hearts.
He is a recommended artist for those who feel nostalgic for their hometown or who seek enka that truly moves the heart.
I cry over a bad love.Shiranui Suzuka
Suzuka Shiranui is attracting attention as a rising enka star proudly representing Kumamoto Prefecture.
Based in her hometown of Kumamoto, Shiranui has drawn headlines for her tumultuous life story: while raising seven children, she never gave up on her dream of becoming a singer.
In September 2024, she made her major-label debut with “Yokunai Koi Naku yo,” capturing the hearts of many listeners with her distinctive voice and powerful kobushi vocal ornaments.
Having overcome her experience as a Kumamoto earthquake survivor, she has built a community-rooted career as a “Roadside Station Enka Singer.” Since her debut, she has seen remarkable success, including winning the 2024 Japan Enka Awards Newcomer Prize and appearing on NHK enka programs.
She is highly recommended not only for enka fans but also for those interested in regional revitalization.
Man’s HourglassFukuda Minoru
Minoru Fukuda, from Kumamoto City in Kumamoto Prefecture, is an enka singer who debuted in 1998.
With a background as a former actor, he is known for his appealing low voice and expressive singing.
He gained recognition with hits such as “Omae to Futari” and “Amanojaku.” While rooted in the Showa-era mood-kayō style, his distinctive approach incorporates modern arrangements.
In July 2023, he released a new single, “Otoko no Sunadokei,” to commemorate the 25th anniversary of his debut.
With hobbies ranging from jogging to watching martial arts, Fukuda’s music is recommended not only for enka fans but also for listeners across generations.
March of 365 StepsSuizenji Kiyoko
Kiyoko Suizenji, a grand dame of the enka world from Kumamoto Prefecture, made her debut in 1965 with “Namida o Daite Wataridori” and has remained at the forefront for over half a century.
She appeared in the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen for 22 consecutive years and served as host four times—proof of her widely recognized talent.
While rooted in enka, her broad musicality—embracing elements of pop and Latin music—is part of her appeal.
In 2020, she marked the 55th anniversary of her debut and released new songs.
Suizenji’s voice, which conveys the charms of Kumamoto through song, is sure to resonate with anyone who holds their hometown dear.