[2026] A roundup of enka singers from Niigata

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

When you think of Niigata Prefecture, you think of a snowy region with the fifth-largest land area in Japan.

It’s variously grouped with the Chubu region, the Kanto-Koshinetsu area, the Hokuriku region, and even, according to some views, the Tohoku region—testament to just how expansive it is.

Niigata has also inspired many classic enka and kayōkyoku songs, such as Kenichi Mikawa’s “Niigata Blues,” Hibari Misora’s “Hibari no Sado Jōwa,” and “Yuki Tsubaki” by Sachiko Kobayashi, a star born in Niigata.

In this article, we’ll spotlight enka singers from Niigata Prefecture, introducing a wide range of artists from up-and-coming talents to seasoned veterans all at once!

[2026] A roundup of enka singers from Niigata (11–20)

Wistful Oke-saSakuragawa Tatsuru

Tatsuru Sakuragawa “Melancholy Okesa”

Wistful Oke-saSakuragawa Tatsuru

Tatsuru Sakuragawa, from Niigata City in Niigata Prefecture, is a skilled enka singer who gained local popularity from a young age.

In June 2017, he made his major debut with “Tokyo no Hito” under Teichiku Entertainment.

His powerful vocals and richly emotional expression are truly captivating.

In October 2024, he made a re-debut, releasing “Aishuu O-kesa” from Yume Records.

This song is a fine work themed around his hometown of Niigata—perfect for late autumn, singing of love on Sado Island.

The coupling tracks are “Datte Ai Dakara” and “Nomo Nomo!” Since this release, he has been actively performing at events and live shows across various regions.

Highly recommended not only for enka fans but also for those interested in the rising careers of young enka singers.

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In conclusion

We’ve introduced enka singers from Niigata Prefecture so far—did your favorite singer make an appearance? Or perhaps you discovered that one of them is from your hometown.

Since Takuya Nakazawa, it seems there haven’t yet been any young enka singers who’ve attracted nationwide attention, but please keep an eye out for future debuts from this vast snowy region—there are sure to be more enka talents to come!