Kaori Mizumori Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
Enka singer Kaori Mizumori debuted in 1995 with “Oshiroibana.” She has steadily continued her musical career, and the hit of “Kumano Kodo,” released in 2006, drew attention from beyond enka fans.
She is also known for regional-themed songs such as “Tappi Misaki,” and has been a regular performer on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen since 2003.
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Kaori Mizumori Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (41–50)
Chilly Spring InnMizumori Kaori41rank/position
This is an enka song performed by Kaori Mizumori, known as the Queen of Local Songs, set in the Mimasaka region of Okayama Prefecture.
The lyrics weave in proper place names such as Okayama, Mimasaka, and the Yoshino River, overlaying the scenery of Yunogo Onsen with the emotions of parting.
Titled with the seasonal word hanabie, which refers to a chill in the air during spring, the lyrics strikingly contrast the warmth of the hot springs with the coldness of lingering attachment.
It was released in October 2011 as a track on the album Kayō Kikō X: Shōnai Heiya Kaze no Naka.
It’s a recommended song for those who want to feel the landscapes of Okayama and the atmosphere of its hot spring towns, or who wish to dwell on a bittersweet tale of farewell.
Lake Nojiri AloneMizumori Kaori42rank/position
This is a gem of a regional enka song, richly performed by Kaori Mizumori, capturing the feelings of a woman trying to heal a broken heart on the quiet shores of a Shinshu lake.
Against the beautiful scenery of Lake Nojiri, it vividly portrays her poignant resolve to sever ties with the past.
Released in April 2005 as the B-side to the single “Gonō Line,” it was also included on her 10th anniversary album the same year.
Highly recommended for those facing the end of a romance or seeking a fresh start at a turning point in life.
Oki Travel SentimentMizumori Kaori43rank/position
This is a song by Kaori Mizumori, the “Queen of Local Songs,” that richly portrays the travel sentiments of Shimane.
It is filled with beautiful scenes of Shimane, such as the poignant feeling of gazing toward the mainland from the Oki Islands, the sunset sinking over Lake Shinji, and the picturesque streets of Tsuwano.
The loneliness felt while traveling and the warm thoughts of one’s hometown seep deeply into the heart, carried by her clear voice and gently wistful melody.
The song was released in August 2014 as a related edition to the hit work “Shimane Koitabi” (Shimane Love Journey).
Mizumori herself serves as a Shimane Hometown Goodwill Ambassador, and this work also plays a role in conveying the charms of Shimane.
Nostalgia… TakachihoMizumori Kaori44rank/position
A lyrical song set in the mythic land of Miyazaki, sung by Kaori Mizumori, the “Queen of Local Songs.” It portrays a journey through Takachiho Gorge by someone who cannot forget a past lover, carrying their sorrow along the way.
The pure spray of Manai Falls and the timeless flow of the Gokase River—encountering such majestic nature only deepens the protagonist’s lingering attachment to their beloved, a heartrending emotion that comes through with striking clarity.
Mizumori’s emotive vocals seem to echo through the ravine itself.
Listening while sensing the wind that has blown since the age of myths, you may find yourself drawn deeply into the world of the song, feeling as if you’re traveling together with the protagonist.
Takato Sakura RoadMizumori Kaori45rank/position
Set against the backdrop of Takato Castle Ruins Park in Ina City, Nagano Prefecture, this acclaimed song layers the sight of dancing cherry blossoms over a bittersweet romance.
Sung by Kaori Mizumori, known as the “Queen of Local Songs,” the single was released in January 2019 and became a major hit, debuting at No.
5 on the Oricon weekly overall chart.
It portrays a protagonist who, after a sorrowful parting, travels alone to a famed cherry-blossom spot—an image that powerfully conveys the lyrical world that earned an award at the 52nd Japan Lyricist Awards.
A later special edition featuring a duet with the comedy duo Sandwichman also drew attention.
It’s a perfect song for moments under full-bloom sakura when you want to linger in a touch of melancholy or savor the travel-inspired sentiment unique to enka.
Naruko GorgeMizumori Kaori46rank/position
Set against one of Miyagi Prefecture’s most celebrated autumn foliage spots, this song portrays the feelings of a woman traveling alone while holding the memory of her beloved, now departed.
It’s said that Kaori Mizumori’s own profound grief over the loss of her father is reflected in her vocals, yet the piece is more than sorrow.
Many listeners may be moved by the warmth that feels like the deceased watching over her, as well as the sense of hope that looks toward tomorrow.
Released as a single in January 2021, it became her 18th consecutive Top 10 entry on the Oricon charts.
It’s an ideal companion for a journey spent remembering someone dear.
WashuzanMizumori Kaori47rank/position
Mount Washuzan is a 133-meter-high mountain located in Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture.
The song depicts a breakup between a man and a woman, and it can be interpreted as them visiting Okayama for their final trip together.
By the way, near Mount Washuzan there’s a theme park called Washuzan Highland, so if you visit on a date, why not stop by?
A One-Yen Coin VagabondMizumori Kaori48rank/position
Although it’s a bright and cheerful enka song, Ichien-dama no Tabigarasu became an unexpected smash hit after gaining popularity during its broadcast on NHK’s Minna no Uta.
The lyrics were written by Toyohisa Araki and the music composed by Tetsuya Gen, both of whom are well-known figures in the enka world.
Gono LineMizumori Kaori49rank/position
Kaori Mizumori’s 13th single, released in April 2005 (Heisei 17).
She was already known as the “Queen of Regional Songs,” and this track—modeled on the Gono Line that connects the Sea of Japan coasts of Aomori and Akita—also became a hit.
At the end of the year, she won the Japan Record Award for Best Vocal Performance with this song.
Wajima Morning MarketMizumori Kaori50rank/position
Released in 2008 as Kaori Mizumori’s 16th single.
It reached No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, extending her streak of consecutive Top 10 debuts to five releases.
This local-themed song is inspired by the morning market in Wajima, Ishikawa Prefecture.
It won the Excellent Work Award at the 50th Japan Record Awards and was performed at the 59th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.