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Yuzo Kayama’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

For younger generations, he might only be known as the older guy who sings “Sarai” on 24-Hour TV or the guy who hosts a walking show on television, but Yuzo Kayama is a pioneering singer-songwriter in Japan.

His starring film series, the Wakadaisho (Young Guy) films, were hugely popular at the time, and he has many signature songs—he’s truly one of Japan’s most beloved singers.

Here is a ranking of Kayama’s popular songs.

Yuzo Kayama’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (1–10)

SaraiKayama Yūzō8rank/position

Yuzo Kayama - Sarai (with lyrics)
SaraiKayama Yūzō

This is a heartwarming classic that brings back nostalgic memories.

It delicately portrays the feelings of people who leave their hometowns to chase their dreams, and was created by Yuzo Kayama and Shinji Tanimura in November 1992 as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “24-Hour Television.” Its title derives from a Persian word meaning a desert oasis or a staging post, and the soothing melody—like a spiritual homeland—leaves a lasting impression.

The piece was composed based on messages of love sent in by viewers from across the country, and even after more than 30 years, it remains deeply etched in many hearts.

It’s a recommended song for times when you want to quietly bask in memories or connect heart-to-heart with someone special.

Stars in the night skyKayama Yūzō9rank/position

Yuzo Kayama’s “Yozora no Hoshi” (Stars in the Night Sky) is a classic released in December 1965.

With romantic lyrics that depict the beauty of the night sky and the bond between lovers, paired with Kayama’s warm vocals, the song truly moves the heart.

It was also used as a memorable theme song for the film “The Young Guy with an Electric Guitar,” and can be considered a piece that symbolizes Kayama’s versatile talent.

It’s the perfect song for gazing up at the night sky and envisioning a future walked together with someone special.

Be sure to listen to it while looking at the stars—it will surely kindle a light of hope in your heart.

Beautiful SpringKayama Yūzō10rank/position

Beautiful Spring [Yuzo Kayama] - The audio is bad.
Beautiful SpringKayama Yūzō

This is a classic song that sweetly celebrates the arrival of spring.

Warmly portrayed are pure feelings that make the heart flutter like a first love.

Carried by Yuzo Kayama’s gentle voice, evocative scenes quietly unfold and resonate within.

The lyrics, expressing a fresh young love alongside the springtime nature, evoke kindness and nostalgia in listeners.

Released in April 1968 and included on the album “For You,” it stands alongside contemporary hits like “Oyome ni Oide” and “Kimi to Itsu Made mo” as a song that colors youth.

It’s perfect for sharing fond spring memories or enjoying with handclaps in music therapy settings.

A calm, pleasant work that offers seniors a heartwarming moment.

Yuzo Kayama Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (11–20)

My ChristmasKayama Yūzō11rank/position

A warm song by Yuzo Kayama that celebrates the joy of Christmas and friendship.

Although released in 1966, it’s a timeless classic loved across generations.

Kayama’s signature refreshing vocals blend with the jingle of sleigh bells to create a pleasing melody that leaves a lasting impression.

You can almost picture friends enjoying Christmas together.

The lyrics, which gently reach out to children who are sad, are filled with compassion for people.

It’s perfect not only for the Christmas season but also for special days spent with loved ones.

The Young Boss of HawaiiKayama Yūzō12rank/position

Young Boss of Hawaii (Original Movie Version) / Yuzo Kayama
The Young Boss of HawaiiKayama Yūzō

Just hearing the lively guitar in the intro instantly conjures up the blue seas of Hawaii—the mark of a classic brimming with a tropical vibe! Written for a film series starring Yuzo Kayama, the movie was released in August 1963.

Its bright, hopeful melody calls to mind a young man cutting swiftly through the waves on a yacht.

It also served as the theme song for the series’ first film shot on location overseas, and you can feel those once-dreamed-of landscapes coming through the music.

It’s perfect for lifting your spirits, and also for sharing fond memories of fun summer days with your family.

Sea, That LoveKayama Yūzō13rank/position

This sea-themed song by Yuzo Kayama was actually included on an album of the same name released in May 1976.

Kayama composed the music himself, with lyrics by Tokiko Iwatani.

It portrays the sea as a “mother,” a presence that soothes a man’s loneliness and emptiness.

With its grand melody and moving lyrics, it’s a masterpiece that resonates with listeners.

It was re-released in March 2002 and has continued to be loved by people across generations.

It’s great for listening while driving, and if you listen while gazing at the sea, you’ll feel the song’s appeal even more.

Coca-ColaKayama Yūzō14rank/position

Coca-Cola Commercial – Young General Surfing Edition – 1967
Coca-ColaKayama Yūzō

In a 1966 Coca-Cola commercial featuring a young Yuzo Kayama, you can clearly see the media strategy suggesting that Coca-Cola goes well with winter sports.

The scene where he pulls a bottled Coke out of the snow is particularly evocative.