[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.
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[2026] Compilation of Enka Singers from Kumamoto (1–10)
Crossing Amagi PassIshikawa Sayuri
When it comes to legends of the enka world from Kumamoto Prefecture, Sayuri Ishikawa is the first name that comes to mind.
She debuted in 1973 and is known for masterpieces such as “Amagi-goe.” Her voice is captivating, combining deep emotion with powerful delivery.
She boasts a record-setting more than 36 appearances on the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen and has received honors such as the Japan Record Awards and the Japan Singers Association Grand Prize.
Beyond enka, she has appeared on television programs and in films, showcasing her wide-ranging talents.
She also sings local songs from Kumamoto, so why not experience her hometown pride through her music?
Hometown is in the heart.Tsukahara Teppei
Tetsuhei Tsukahara, known as an enka singer from Hitoyoshi City in Kumamoto Prefecture, made his major debut in September 2008 with “Otoko no Kinjitō” (A Man’s Monument).
While upholding the traditional enka style, he captivates many fans with songs infused with contemporary sensibilities.
In 1999, he received a Special Award at the Japan Studio Karaoke Grand Prix national competition and won the championship at NHK’s Nodo Jiman Kumamoto contest the same year.
Released in January 2012, “Ore no Furusato” (My Hometown) is a gem that passionately sings of his roots and has left a deep impression on the people of Kumamoto.
Also known as a baseball enthusiast, Tsukahara formed the band “Ebisu Honjin” in 2024 and has been active in various endeavors, including performing the fight song for a professional baseball team in Kumamoto.
He is highly recommended for anyone who wants to be captivated by a voice overflowing with love for his hometown.
A single dreamAoki Miho
Mihoshi Aoki is an enka singer from Kumamoto Prefecture who was scouted by Hiroshi Itsuki and made her debut with Jinsei Zanmai.
In 1986, she garnered widespread attention with her signature hit, which sold 250,000 copies.
She won various music awards, including the New Artist Award at the Japan Record Awards, and was active as a promising young star in the enka world.
Although she was forced to suspend activities in 2000 due to sudden spasmodic dysphonia, she made a miraculous comeback in 2009.
With her clear voice and rich expressiveness, she continues to capture the hearts of enka fans.
[2026] Compilation of Enka Singers from Kumamoto (11–20)
Tequila of TearsMasaki Yūji
Debuting in 1982 under the stage name “Shiranui Gorō” and adopting his current name after several changes, Yūji Masaki hails from Amakusa City in Kumamoto Prefecture.
He has released numerous hit songs, including “Oyaji Genki ka” and “Fūfu Oiwake.” In 2008, he issued “Sendō Kōuta Monogatari” as the last disciple of Minoru Endō.
Praised by his mentor as “a masterpiece to be passed down to future generations,” the work has become one of Masaki’s signature songs.
While rooted in enka, his flexible musicality—incorporating elements of pop and Latin music—is a key part of his appeal.
In 2016, he also gave a successful performance in San Francisco and continues to be active both in Japan and abroad.
With a rich voice and expressive power nurtured by the culture of Kumamoto, Masaki moves the hearts of enka fans.
Why not give his music a listen?
Spring-Waiting SakeHarada Yuuri
Yuri Harada, originally from Hondo City in Kumamoto Prefecture, has an unusual career path, having transitioned from a music teacher to an enka singer.
She debuted in June 1982 and achieved a million-seller with “Kisoji no Onna” in 1985.
Since then, she has released numerous hit songs, including “Tsugaru no Hana” and “Saga no Yaoya O-Shichi.” Her talent has been highly acclaimed, with six songs receiving the Japan Record Award Gold Prize.
Drawing on her background in classical music, she incorporates elements of opera and folk music into a distinctive style.
Her emotionally rich and powerful voice is sure to move not only enka fans but listeners across generations.
a secret trystAikawa Masaki
Masaki Aikawa, an enka and kayōkyoku singer who made his debut in 2008 with “Minato Tazunebito,” hails from Yatsushiro City in Kumamoto Prefecture.
With a sweet, lustrous low voice that has earned him the nickname “the Shy Prince of the Kayō world,” Aikawa gained popularity with his second single—centered on a woman’s feelings—leading to a fan base that is 80% female.
In 2013, he released “Furusato wa Amakusa” as a support song for World Heritage registration and held a new-song presentation in his home prefecture of Kumamoto.
His cover album “Kokorone -Kokoro Oto-” features songs by a wide range of artists, including MISIA and Miyuki Nakajima, showcasing his strong vocal abilities.
He appeals not only to enka and kayōkyoku fans but also to listeners drawn to works that incorporate a contemporary sensibility.
Amakusa KatagiAmakusa Jirō
Jiro Amakusa is known as an enka singer from Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture.
He made his debut in May 2005 with Nippon Crown.
His debut song, “Amakusa Katagi,” composed by Tetsuya Funamura, is themed around his hometown of Amakusa.
He has since released many songs based on Amakusa and won the Nippon Crown Hit Award for New Artists in 2005.
In April 2006, he appeared on NHK Kayō Concert, among other notable achievements.
Jiro Amakusa’s vocal style is rooted in the traditional enka approach inherited from his mentor, Tetsuya Funamura, while also incorporating his own sensibilities.
His songs, imbued with affection for his hometown, are sure to resonate deeply with those who feel nostalgia for their roots.