Sayuri Ishikawa Popular Song Ranking [2026]

A Midsummer Night’s DreamIshikawa Sayuri22rank/position

A Midsummer Night's Dream

Sayuri Ishikawa is a grand dame of the enka world who debuted in 1973 and is known for numerous hit songs, including “Tsugaru Straits—Winter Scene.” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” released on September 28, 2000, portrays the passion and transience of a woman who lives for love.

With a melody that paints vivid summer scenes and Ishikawa’s rich, resonant vocals, the song delicately expresses the emotions of a woman in love.

In particular, the lyrics—depicting the joy of a summer spent with a beloved and the loneliness when it ends—are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a track that evokes a certain nostalgia while also giving listeners the courage to welcome a new season with optimism.

Marital AffectionIshikawa Sayuri23rank/position

Sayuri Ishikawa / A Couple’s Affection

Set against the nostalgic backdrop of old Naniwa, this song richly portrays the bond between husband and wife.

The lyrics mention Tsutenkaku and Sennichimae, conveying how deeply Osaka’s culture is intertwined with married life.

It sings of an inseparable relationship—like actors in a traditional takekomi-shibai—and of walking together along life’s uphill paths, leaving listeners with a warm, cozy feeling.

Released in January 2018, the piece was also used as an in-play song for Sayuri Ishikawa’s special stage production “Meoto Zenzei.” It’s perfect not only for couples to enjoy together, but also for expressing gratitude to someone important.

Flowers are blooming.Ishikawa Sayuri24rank/position

Sayuri Ishikawa / The Flowers Are Blooming

Seiji Kameda has also produced songs for Sayuri Ishikawa, a grand dame of enka.

This particular track was written and composed by Yoshiki Mizuno of Ikimonogakari.

While the piano and strings arrangement has the gentle feel of a kayōkyoku-style tune, the strength of the melody really stands out.

Ishikawa’s vocals have an expected commanding presence, and I can feel Kameda’s prowess in how he harnesses that voice within a pop framework.

fireworksIshikawa Sayuri25rank/position

fireworks

Since her debut in 1973, Sayuri Ishikawa has been a leading figure in Japan’s enka scene.

Among her works, the 2012 release “Hanabi” (“Fireworks”) portrays memories of the past and bittersweet emotions that resurface at summer’s end.

The song drew attention for being written by singer-songwriter Hako Yamasaki.

Through the motif of fireworks—a hallmark of summer—it delicately expresses memories of a childhood friend and a secret, unspoken love.

Ishikawa’s richly expressive vocals and the song’s poetic diction blend beautifully, leaving a deep impression on listeners.

Sayuri Ishikawa’s “Hanabi” is a memorable piece that epitomizes the wistfulness of late summer.

Hotel Minato-yaIshikawa Sayuri26rank/position

Hotel Minato-ya, Sayuri Ishikawa, 1993

When it comes to songs about a woman’s heartbreak set in the northern country, it has to be Sayuri Ishikawa.

Even with commonplace words like harbor, sake, and tears, her vocal prowess naturally conjures vivid images.

It seems there isn’t actually a “Hotel Minatoya” in the north, but there was a Hotel Minatoya in Kochi Prefecture.

Safflower Picking SongIshikawa Sayuri27rank/position

Safflower Picking Song - Sayuri Ishikawa - 1979

This is a new folk song from Yamagata Prefecture—a drinking song.

Safflower belongs to the daisy family, but like a rose it has thorns.

There are thornless varieties used for fresh flowers, but for dyeing, thorny safflowers are used.

They are picked in the morning because the thorns soften with the early-morning dew.

It’s a folk song that sings of Yamagata along with the wisdom of the past.

I want us to be happy.Ishikawa Sayuri28rank/position

[MV] Sayuri Ishikawa / I Want to Be Happy (full ver.)

Sayuri Ishikawa, who showcases her beautiful voice not only in the enka genre but also in the pop music field, released “Shiawase ni Naritai ne” in March 2020, right as the COVID-19 pandemic was taking hold.

Many people were likely comforted by her gentle delivery of the simple melody and heartwarming lyrics.

She sets aside the enka-style vocal approach here, opting for a J-pop singing style instead, so even those who aren’t fond of enka should find it easy to sing.

Because the song is built mainly around acoustic guitar and strings, you might find it a bit tricky to catch the rhythm, but it helps to count the relaxed tempo yourself as you sing.

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