Shinichi Mori’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Cape ErimoMori Shinichi1rank/position

Shinichi Mori Erimo Misaki (with lyrics)

This is a famous song by Shinichi Mori that depicts the scenery of a cape at the edge of Hokkaido and the feelings of the people who visit it.

Released in January 1974 as his 29th single, it features lyrics by Osami Okamoto and music by Takuro Yoshida.

Celebrated as a remarkable fusion of folk and enka, it won both the Japan Record Award and the Japan Kayō Award that same year.

The song conveys warmth amidst a desolate landscape and a gentle embrace that quietly accepts wounded hearts, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.

It has been performed four times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and remains beloved to this day.

Its melody and lyrics resonate especially in the cold season, making it perfect for singing together at New Year gatherings.

With light handclaps, you can enjoy it at a relaxed pace—ideal for moments when you want to spend a peaceful time.

Winter RivieraMori Shinichi2rank/position

Winter Riviera

It’s a classic song set on a winter coastline that portrays the loneliness of parting.

The poignant lyrics pair perfectly with Shinichi Mori’s deep, expressive vocals.

Released in November 1982, it was also used as the theme song for Suntory’s Winter Gift campaign.

Known as a bold attempt to bridge enka and pop, it remains a piece that lingers in many hearts.

It’s a track that really resonates in the cold season.

Why not listen to it with older folks while reminiscing about cherished memories? You’re sure to share a lovely time together.

MotherMori Shinichi3rank/position

Mother

It is a quintessential enka masterpiece that sings of gratitude to one’s mother.

Its beautiful lyrics blend a universal theme with images of nature, and Shinichi Mori’s deeply expressive vocals resonate with listeners’ hearts.

Released as a single in May 1971, the song won the Japan Record Award for Best Vocal Performance that same year.

A popular number performed eight times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, it was also featured in films and commercials.

The lyrics convey feelings anyone can relate to.

When singing it at karaoke, try to channel Mori’s rich vocal timbre while delivering the song with gentle warmth.

homesicknessMori Shinichi4rank/position

homesickness

Known as a classic of Showa-era enka, this song showcases Shinichi Mori’s rich, resonant voice and outstanding expressive power.

It poignantly portrays a woman’s aching feelings for a lover from whom she has been separated, sung with deep emotion.

Since its release in December 1970, it has captured countless hearts and never let go.

As Mori’s 18th single, it became one of his signature tracks, always included on his best-of albums.

Because it demands enka’s distinctive phrasing and finely nuanced emotion, it’s quite difficult to sing.

Still, it’s a song I especially hope will be heard by those living away from their hometowns or thinking of someone far away.

rabbitMori Shinichi5rank/position

Shinichi Mori — Rabbit

This is a single released by Shinichi Mori in 1989.

The lyrics seem to be inspired by the children’s song Furusato, and they sing about memories of looking after the class rabbit during summer vacation in childhood.

There is a depiction of a crying younger brother in the lyrics.

Port Town BluesMori Shinichi6rank/position

Port Town Blues

This is one of Shinichi Mori’s signature songs, with a melancholy melody and carefully chosen words that touch the heart.

Released in 1969, it portrays the poignant feelings of a woman traveling through port towns across Japan, and it sparked a huge response.

Just over two weeks after its release, it entered the Oricon Top 10 and went on to hold the No.

1 spot for five consecutive weeks.

It became a million-seller and the year’s second-best-selling single, and it won the 2nd Japan Cable Awards and the Best Vocal Performance at the 11th Japan Record Awards.

At that year’s Kohaku Uta Gassen, Mori-san had the honor of closing the show with this song.

It’s a classic that resonates even more deeply when you listen to it while traveling or visiting a port town.

Hard to leave KyotoMori Shinichi7rank/position

Hard to leave Kyoto - Shinichi Mori UPE-0030

“Kyoto Sarigatashi” (Hard to Leave Kyoto) is a song released by Shinichi Mori in May 1988.

The lyrics were written by Masao Urino, and the composition was done by Shinichi Mori himself.

Sung from a woman’s perspective, it conveys, with heartfelt emotion, the lingering memories of a man who has left.