Yujiro Ishihara Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Thank you, night fog, again tonight.Ishihara Yūjirō8rank/position

Yujiro Ishihara “Thank You, Fog, Again Tonight”

A timeless masterpiece by Yujiro Ishihara, whose sweet, wistful voice and emotionally rich lyrics gently seep into the heart.

Its calm, elegant mood is captivating, as if it symbolizes mature romance in the Showa era.

Released by Teichiku Records in February 1967, the song was also used as the theme for a film of the same name and became a major hit.

In the movie, Ishihara’s character experiences a heartrending love story that perfectly matches the world of the song.

This is a piece that quietly stays by the side of those carrying a hidden love or the pain of parting.

It’s also recommended for nights when you want to reflect on memories with someone dear.

Sunset HillIshihara Yūjirō & Asaoka Ruriko9rank/position

The Hill of the Setting Sun — Yujiro Ishihara & Ruriko Asaoka

How about a lyrical duet that conjures a melancholy scene of swaying on a bus at dusk in autumn? Its heartrending melody, hinting at a forbidden love and the farewell that lies ahead, will resonate deeply with listeners.

This classic piece was created in September 1963 to commemorate the record label’s 30th anniversary, performed by Yujiro Ishihara and Ruriko Asaoka.

It is also known as the theme song for the film “Sunset Hill,” in which the two co-starred, and many of you may already be familiar with it.

Perfectly overlapping with a tragic love story set in Hakodate, it vividly captures the atmosphere of the time.

It would be lovely to listen on a long autumn night while reminiscing about cherished moments or youthful memories with someone dear.

Humming it together with friends will warm the heart and make for a delightful time.

A Love Story in GinzaMakimura Junko / Ishihara Yūjirō10rank/position

Yujiro Ishihara and Junko Makimura: 'The Love Story of Ginza'

It’s a song whose popularity is evident: it became a hit as an insert song in the film “From Town to Town Like a Whirlwind,” and another movie, “A Love Story in Ginza,” was even released using it as the theme.

It’s a staple male–female duet, memorable for its relaxed tempo and a mature, sensual atmosphere.

While the sound suggests a calm, adult romance, a closer look at the lyrics reveals a passionate love between a man and a woman, conveying the strength of their feelings for each other.

It’s a piece that calls for a faithful rendition—honoring the mood while singing with heartfelt passion.

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Memory HotelIshihara Yūjirō11rank/position

Yujiro Ishihara: Memory Hotel

You can almost picture a man standing alone at a seaside hotel, far from the bustle of the city.

He quietly reflects on a once-in-a-lifetime love with someone he can no longer see, the bittersweet scene unfolding through Yujiro Ishihara’s conversational singing voice—a style befitting a performer who also excelled as an actor.

Released in September 1984, the track is marked by an urban, sophisticated sound featuring saxophone and synthesizer.

Here, the melancholy of mood kayō and the refined timbres blend exquisitely, accentuating the protagonist’s loneliness.

It’s the perfect number for a night when you want to sip a drink in solitude and let your thoughts drift to days gone by.

Longing for the Chikuma RiverIshihara Yūjirō12rank/position

Yujiro Ishihara - Chikuma River Yearning

The Chikuma River sounds like a song that layers the images of Toson Shimazaki’s “First Love”—‘beneath the apple tree where the bangs had only just begun to be raised’—and “Chikuma River Travel Sentiments”—‘By the old castle in Komoro, the clouds are white and the wanderer is sad.’ Mr.

Yūjirō also sang quite a few local-themed songs.

HellflowerIshihara Yūjirō13rank/position

Yujiro Ishihara, Ruriko Asaoka “Hell Flower”

A single released in 1971.

Born in 1934.

An actor and singer from Hyogo Prefecture.

Ruriko Asaoka participates with spoken lines during the instrumental interlude.

The title “Jigokubana” is another name for the red spider lily (higanbana).

Set to a mood-kayo melody with a Showa-era fragrance, Yujiro’s cool, husky voice makes him feel very nihilistic.

Harbor Town in the FogIshihara Yūjirō14rank/position

Yujiro Ishihara - Foggy Harbor Town

How about spending a heartwarming moment with a nostalgic Showa-era classic? Yujiro Ishihara’s voice vividly paints the scene of a fog-shrouded harbor town.

This poignant piece, steeped in the ache of unrequited love and parting, is included on the album “Yujiro Ishihara Big Hits 12 ~ Foggy Harbor Town ~,” released in October 1983.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s perfect for immersing yourself in the world of the lyrics and reminiscing about days gone by.

Why not sing it together with older listeners and share fond memories of the past?