Sayuri Ishikawa Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Love comes firstIshikawa Sayuri36rank/position

Love comes first

When you think of anison sung by an enka singer, does this song come to mind? “Ai ga Ichiban” is a single released by Sayuri Ishikawa in 1999, and it was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Nintama Rantarō from the episodes aired between April and July of the same year.

It has a bright, energetic vibe that parents and kids can enjoy, with a very catchy melody.

Ishikawa also leans more toward a J-pop style rather than enka in her performance, so it seems like a very easy song to sing at karaoke.

If you’re at karaoke with people who were kids back then, definitely give it a try!

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KOH-1

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Spring, summer, autumn, winter—with sake.Ishikawa Sayuri37rank/position

Spring, summer, autumn, winter—with sake.

Since her debut in 1973, Sayuri Ishikawa has been an iconic artist in Japan’s enka scene.

Her song “Shunka Shūtō: Sake Arite,” released on May 25, 2005, centers on Japan’s four seasons, portraying beautiful seasonal scenes alongside the enjoyment of sake suited to each time of year.

The autumn section in particular highlights moon-viewing sake (tsukimi-zake), and the melody and lyrics, rich with the ambiance of each season, resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a perfect song to enjoy while savoring the atmosphere of autumn, gently rekindling an appreciation for the beauty of Japan’s seasons with a touch of wistfulness.

Daphne (winter daphne)Ishikawa Sayuri38rank/position

Daphne (winter daphne)

Released in 1977, “Jinchoge” is an early masterpiece by Sayuri Ishikawa, who had transitioned from an idol to an enka singer and was riding a wave of success after her 1977 hit “Tsugaru Strait—Winter Scene.” While she had been releasing songs by the duo Yū Aku (lyrics) and Takashi Miki (composition), this track is notably penned by Ryo Shoji, composed by Katsuo Ōno, and arranged by Koji Makaino—a fascinating shift.

The overall key is on the higher side, which can be challenging for those who struggle with high notes; however, the kobushi and vibrato are not overly intense, and the pitch movement is relatively restrained, making the melody itself quite singable.

With its strong kayōkyoku flavor, it’s also recommended for fans of Showa-era Japanese pop.

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KOH-1

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Yunohana KOUTAIshikawa Sayuri39rank/position

Sayuri Ishikawa “Yunohana KOUTA” Music Video (full ver.)

This classic song, released in 2003, marks Sayuri Ishikawa’s 30th anniversary as a singer and cheerfully captures the lovestruck heart of a geisha in a hot spring town.

With lyrics by Osamu Yoshioka and music by Masato Sugimoto, the track brings together the fun of a traditional ozashiki kouta with contemporary pop in brilliant fashion.

It’s striking how everyday words like kotatsu and futon sketch a bittersweet woman’s heart, yet in Ishikawa’s sultry voice they somehow ring bright and buoyant.

The rhythm, complete with handclaps and English-style calls, is perfect for parties, and just listening to it makes you feel giddy—like you want to head straight to a hot spring.

There’s none of the heaviness people associate with enka; it’s a song you’ll want to pick when everyone’s in the mood to have a lively, good time!

Night Parade of One Hundred DemonsIshikawa Sayuri40rank/position

Hyakkiyakou

This commercial brings together a star-studded lineup led by Sayuri Ishikawa, with LUNA SEA’s SUGIZO, RIZE’s KenKen, DJ RENA, and Nyangostar.

It’s a PEPSI J-Cola spot featuring an awe-inspiring, festival-like spectacle: dancers marching around a massive float carrying the musicians.

The piece performed in the video is “Hyakki Yagyo.” It’s a track that feels like an arrangement of the Soran Bushi folk song, and above all, Ishikawa’s soaring vocals command an overwhelming presence.

Not to be outdone, SUGIZO’s guitar and KenKen’s bass fire back in kind.

It’s a powerful number whose intensity can only be experienced through a collaboration of such lavish artists.

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Hane Keisuke

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Sunset Steps, ContinuedIshikawa Sayuri41rank/position

Sequel: Yuyake Dandan

Since this song has “Continuation” in the title, of course there is a first part, and this is a sequel to “Yuyake Dandan.” “Yuyake Dandan” refers to the slope that descends to Yanaka Ginza in Arakawa Ward, Tokyo, and the sunset seen from the top of its stairs is a famous scenic spot.

Set in this warm, close-knit neighborhood, the song depicts the everyday life of a widow who continues to live cheerfully even after losing her husband.

Higo Bon SongIshikawa Sayuri42rank/position

Higo Bon Festival Song ~Flame~

This is a passionate enka number sung by Sayuri Ishikawa, who was born in Kumamoto City, pouring her burning feelings for her hometown into every note.

Her overwhelming vocal prowess seizes listeners’ hearts and draws them instantly into the world of the song.

With lyrics by Hiroo Takada and music by Takashi Miki, it was released as a single in April 2008.

The coupling track features “Yanesen Kouta.” Whether you want to reflect on the spirit of Kumamoto’s landscape or experience a soul-stirring voice, this song is sure to sink deeply into your heart.