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Popular Enka Singers Ranking [2026]
Enka, which has long been passed down as a song close to the hearts of the Japanese people, remains deeply popular even today.
This time, we present a ranking of popular enka singers who perform this beloved genre.
From nationally renowned stars to lesser-known artists cherished by dedicated fans, a wide range of singers have made the list—be sure to give them a listen.
Popular Enka Singers Ranking [2026] (1–10)
A Love Like Ephemeral LightSakishima Jun1rank/position
This is a Japanese-style ballad that captures the fleeting beauty of love.
Jun Sakishima’s translucent vocals exquisitely convey a dreamlike world.
While honoring traditional Japanese melodies, the modern arrangement draws out a fresh allure.
Released in March 2025, the piece pairs a lyrical melody with gentle vocals that deeply resonate with listeners.
Its artistic quality has been highly praised, including a nomination as a candidate work for the Japan Music Authors Association’s “Songs of the Heart Concert.” It’s recommended for anyone who wants to connect with the delicacy and poignancy of being in love, or who seeks the soothing comfort of a tender voice.
Grazioso LoveMegumi Sakino2rank/position
A track defined by its graceful, sophisticated melody.
This is Megumi Sakino’s debut single, slated for release in December 2024.
True to its title, which means “gracefully,” her calm, soothing vocals leave a strong impression.
The lyrics, which gently look back on days gone by, resonate deeply with listeners.
Created in collaboration with Terumi Takaoka, the song has a warm finish that evokes the essence of Showa-era kayōkyoku.
Filled with Sakino’s heartfelt emotions, it’s a must-listen for fans of classic Japanese pop.
Recommended for those who seek the comforting blend of nostalgia and freshness in her voice.
Headwind InnocenceTakeshima Hiroshi3rank/position
Released in 2021 and peaking at No.
5 on the Oricon chart, the hit song “Mukaikaze Junjō” is a track that showcases Hiroshi Takeshima’s refined vocals and is also known as the theme song for the NHK BS drama “Daifugō Dōshin 2.” With lyrics by Goro Matsui and composition by Takashi Toshimi—both giants in the field—it’s a killer tune that evokes the golden era of Showa-era pop.
Many people will likely want to try it at karaoke.
When singing it at karaoke, be sure to pronounce each word clearly, and consciously create contrast between the crisp, rhythmic parts and the expansive, sustained phrases.
While recreating the choreography that drew attention in the music video, don’t be shy—go all in and sing with bold, stylish flair, even to the point of overdoing it.
Rhapsody at MidnightMatsushima Mami4rank/position
This song showcases a new side of Mami Matsushima, whose gently enveloping vocals are her signature charm.
It’s a danceable, mysteriously tinged kayōkyoku track released in November 2024.
The poetic lyrics, themed around the stillness and madness of the night, leave a strong impression, conjuring the image of a woman possessed by love.
You can sense both inner strength and a fragile, ephemeral beauty.
This passionate, dramatic piece might be the perfect companion for a nighttime drive.
AfterglowYamauchi Keisuke5rank/position
It’s a moody masterpiece of kayōkyoku built on a 6/8 rhythm, with an impactful drum sound in the intro and an impressive slap bass line.
For Keisuke Yamauchi, it’s also a song commemorating his 20th debut anniversary, and it fully showcases the charm of his distinctive voice—powerful, sensual, and uniquely his.
He does use the characteristic kobushi of an enka singer, of course, but since the song leans more toward kayōkyoku, the kobushi itself is restrained, making it a great choice even for those not used to straight-up enka.
The A melody section is also good practice for singing low notes carefully, so try performing it while being mindful of the contrast with the soaring chorus!
I’m falling in love with you againSakamoto Fuyumi6rank/position
This is a famous song by Fuyumi Sakamoto that portrays how love for a longtime partner deepens over time and blooms anew.
Even the scars born of youthful folly turn into cherished memories as the two share their days together.
Those warm feelings soak into the heart, carried by a gentle melody.
The song was released in January 2009 as the B-side to the single “Asia no Kaizoku,” and was later included on the acclaimed album “Love Songs ~ Mata Kimi ni Koishiteru ~.” It also gained widespread recognition as the theme song for Sanwa Shurui’s barley shochu “iichiko,” and in 2010 it reached No.
3 on the Oricon weekly chart.
Why not listen when you want to reflect anew on the preciousness of the days you spend with someone dear?
Crossing Amagi PassIshikawa Sayuri7rank/position
It’s no exaggeration to say this is one of the most famous songs in the enka genre.
Sayuri Ishikawa’s 1986 release “Amagi-goe” won the Gold Prize at the 28th Japan Record Awards, and thanks in part to being performed alternately with her other signature song “Tsugaru Kaikyō Fuyugeshiki” on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, it enjoys nationwide recognition and is a perennial karaoke favorite.
That said, as you’ll find if you actually try singing it, it’s not a song you can pull off easily.
It demands techniques characteristic of enka—such as the dramatic rises and falls in pitch that accentuate the contrast between the restrained delivery of the A-melody and the soaring chorus, as well as expansive vibrato and kobushi ornamentation made possible by the leisurely tempo.
Be sure to study the lyrics closely—written in exquisite Japanese and saturated with a fierce lament that vividly portrays a woman’s passion—and try to recreate “Amagi-goe” in your own expressive way!