Popular Enka Singers Ranking [2026]

Koizakura in Monzen-nakachōSaisei91rank/position

Ryusei / Koizakura of Monzen-Nakacho

Hailing from Iwamizawa, Hokkaido, the singer Saisei is known as a “three-blade master,” excelling not only in folk singing but also in the shamisen and shakuhachi.

With rock-solid vocal technique inherited from his mentor and performances that weave in live instrumental playing, he captivates many fans.

His song “Monzen-nakachō no Koizakura” is his eighth single, released in January 2026.

Set in Monzen-nakachō, where the atmosphere of old Edo still lingers, the piece gently sings of memories of love tied to cherry blossoms, carried by a tender melody.

It’s a work imbued with a quietly reflective elegance.

Take your time and let this warm love song sink in.

Sakura, sakuraHattori Hiroko92rank/position

Sakura Sakura

Hiroko Hattori is known for having many songs with a mature melody, but among her works are some wrapped in a pop atmosphere.

The one I especially recommend is Sakura Sakura.

While this piece retains elements of traditional enka, it leans more toward kayōkyoku, featuring a vocal line with gently rising and falling pitches throughout.

There’s only one instance of kobushi (the characteristic enka vocal ornament) just before the chorus, so even those who aren’t fond of enka’s distinctive singing style should be able to sing it without trouble.

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Pathway of the HeartAsahna Miho93rank/position

Asaka Miho “Kokoro no Hanamichi” MV [Official]

Miho Asaka is a female singer from Yonago City in Tottori Prefecture who is drawing attention for her “uta-shibai,” a fusion of singing and theater.

From a young age, she performed on stage with her grandmother, continually captivating audiences with new-style dance and songs that include spoken lines.

Her song Kokoro no Hanamichi was composed by her mentor, Kenji Miyashita.

It’s a powerful, classic enka-style cheer song that encourages those who are single-mindedly pursuing their dreams—perfect for anyone ready to take a new step forward!

Woman’s DepartureMatsubara Nobue94rank/position

Woman’s Departure

A signature work by Nobue Matsubara that brought a fresh breeze to the world of enka.

The lyrics strikingly depict a woman’s delicate feelings and inner strength.

Centered on the theme of setting sail, it skillfully expresses the anticipation and anxiety of a new life, as well as the poignancy of parting.

Released in 1979, this song is also known as Matsubara’s debut single and won the New Artist Award at the Japan Record Awards that year.

Highly recommended not only for enka fans, but also for anyone standing at a crossroads in life.

Sing it at karaoke, and you’re sure to feel a moving resonance in your heart.

Strings of TearsTonosama Kingusu95rank/position

Strings of Tears

A signature work by the Tonomama Kings that symbolizes the enka boom of the 1970s and continues to be loved by many to this day.

The lyrics, depicting a woman’s devoted love and life-risking fidelity, strongly reflect the social climate and values of the time, leaving a deep emotional impact on listeners.

Released in November 1973, the song drew wide attention as the opening theme for Fuji TV’s variety program “Aisuru Futari Wakareru Futari.” The following year, it won the Popularity Award at the 16th Japan Record Awards.

It topped the Oricon charts for nine consecutive weeks, ranked first on the year-end singles chart, and became a massive hit with total sales of 1.973 million copies.

It is recommended not only for enka fans but also for those interested in the history of Japanese music.