Chiyoko Shimakura’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Who Would Not Think of Their HometownShimakura Chiyoko8rank/position

Who Would Not Think of Their Hometown

Chiyoko Shimakura’s “Dareka Kokyō o Omowazaru” is a classic that brings back nostalgic memories.

The lyrics are filled with recollections of childhood friends and family.

It’s a moving song that sings of the feelings people living in the city have for their hometowns.

Shimakura’s clear, pure voice enhances the song’s charm even more.

When seniors listen to it, they will surely picture the familiar landscapes of their hometowns.

Although it was included on an album released in 2003, the song has been loved by many for a long time.

It’s also nice to sing it together during recreation time—it might spark lively reminiscences.

touch-me-not (balsam; Impatiens balsamina)Shimakura Chiyoko9rank/position

touch-me-not (balsam; Impatiens balsamina)

Chiyoko Shimakura created numerous hit songs throughout her life and was widely beloved for pieces like “Tokyo Dayo, Okkasan.” “Balsam” (Hōsenka) was released in 1981 and portrays a straightforward romantic heart by likening it to a balsam flower.

The song expresses, with earnest sincerity despite some awkwardness, the depth of the singer’s love for the man she cherishes, deeply resonating with listeners.

While its lyrics speak across generations, I believe they will especially resonate with those who have rich life experience.

Naniwa SistersShimakura Chiyoko, Ishikawa Sayuri10rank/position

Naniwa Sisters - Sayuri Ishikawa + Chiyoko Shimakura (Chinese and Japanese Subtitles)

For fans of enka and kayōkyoku, this is an unmissable duet: a song released in October 1987 by Chiyoko Shimakura and Sayuri Ishikawa.

Set in the back alleys of Osaka, its lyrics—sprinkled with Kansai dialect lines—vividly depict the bond of two sisters helping each other.

Carried by a gently flowing enka-style melody, their voices blend beautifully, evoking the feeling of real sisters.

Place names like “Iroha Yokocho” and “Sumiyoshi-san” also appear, steeping the song in Osaka’s atmosphere.

It’s a must for enka fans and a great pick for anyone who wants to savor the mood of the Showa era.

It’s Tokyo, Mom.Shimakura Chiyoko11rank/position

It's Tokyo, Mom.

This is a song by Chiyoko Shimakura that depicts a cheerful scene of sightseeing in Tokyo together with one’s mother.

The song strongly conveys the desire to make the mother happy, bringing to mind the image of a Mother’s Day gift.

Through its gentle atmosphere and lyrics that feel like speaking directly to the mother, it expresses deep love and kindness toward her.

It also conveys a heartfelt wish for the mother to live a long life.

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Burning KagoshimaShimakura Chiyoko12rank/position

Ms.

Shimakura has many hit songs, but I didn’t know this one.

Her gentle, beautiful voice resonates.

It specifically sings about Kagoshima, and I like how she occasionally delivers the phrases in a charming way.

It’s delicate and, I think, suits Japanese traditional dance as well.

It’s Tokyo, Mom.Shimakura Chiyoko13rank/position

Tokyo, Mom — Chiyoko Shimakura

This is one of Shimakura’s signature songs, depicting the scenes and emotions of guiding her mother around Tokyo.

There’s an episode that it couldn’t be performed on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen because the second verse was interpreted as having militaristic lyrics.

It’s tricky how just the word “Kudanshita” can make it so difficult.

Goodbye, people of Tokyo.Shimakura Chiyoko14rank/position

Goodbye, people of Tokyo.

Chiyoko Shimakura’s “Goodbye, People of Tokyo” is a masterpiece that vividly portrays a farewell in the big city.

The delicate imagery—the sea and harbor scenes, the sound of a ship’s whistle that evokes the sorrow of parting—deeply resonates.

Released in 1957, the song became one of Shimakura’s signature works, was adapted into a film, and has been loved by many.

For older listeners, it may bring back memories of the past and farewells with loved ones.

Why not savor its unforgettable lyrics alongside the nostalgic scenery of the Showa era?