Chiyoko Shimakura’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

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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kappamaki

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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?

Cape ErimoShimakura Chiyoko15rank/position

Cape Erimo

Chiyoko Shimakura’s “Erimo Misaki” is a touching heartbreak song themed around parting from a loved one.

The lyrics, which depict a quiet autumn night brewing coffee alone and the way the couple’s past appears blurred with tears, tighten the chest.

Its wistful melody and Shimakura’s deeply expressive vocals resonate profoundly with listeners.

Released in 1961, the song remains one of Shimakura’s signature works, cherished by many.

While mourning a lost love, it also conveys gratitude for the memories.

It’s a song I especially recommend to anyone who has experienced saying goodbye to someone dear.

Cape ErimoShimakura Chiyoko16rank/position

Cape Erimo

Although it’s quite a different world from Shinichi Mori’s song of the same title, I think this piece makes beautiful use of the high notes.

You can feel the chill of the cape.

The consistently pure feeling comes through in the voice, which I found appealing.

I’ve heard there’s even a monument inscribed with the lyrics at the cape.

It shows how beloved this song is.

Itchorai-bushiShimakura Chiyoko & Moriya Hiroshi17rank/position

Chiyoko Shimakura & Hiroshi Moriya – Itchorai-bushi (Fukui Ondo)

The Itchorai-bushi is another name for the Fukui Ondo; it is a new folk song released in 1962 to commemorate the opening of the Hokuriku Tunnel.

The lyrics mention many famous spots in Fukui Prefecture.

The word “Itchorai” itself has the same meaning as “icchora” (itchora), akin to having one’s best outfit, and by extension means “the very best,” making it full of local pride.

Both hands to the starry skyShimakura Chiyoko / Moriya Hiroshi18rank/position

Hands Raised to the Starry Sky — Chiyoko Shimakura; original song by Hiroshi Moriya

The duet song “Hoshizora ni Ryōte o” by Hiroshi Moriya—known for his sweet yet astringent vocals—and Chiyoko Shimakura—who gained popularity for her charming voice—stands out.

While duet songs in enka and mood kayō often tend to be adult-oriented, depicting sultry romances or messy affairs, this piece is crafted as a pure love song.

The vocal difficulty is low and the melody is catchy, so be sure to try singing it at karaoke or in a snack bar.

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Ryo

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Christmas in the wintry windShimachura Chiyoko / Kataoka Tsurutarou19rank/position

Chiyoko Shimakura & Tsurutaro Kataoka — A Wintry Wind Christmas

It’s an unconventional Christmas duet song.

The heavyweight duo Takashi Miki and Yasushi Akimoto provided the track.

Both the melody and the sound make for a well-crafted Christmas pop number, but since it’s sung by enka singers, it somehow carries a hint of enka.

It’s Tokyo, MomShimakura Chiyoko20rank/position

It's Tokyo, Mom.

Chiyoko Shimakura’s “Tokyo Dayo Okkasan” is a song released on March 10, 1957.

The lyrics were written by Toshio Nomura, and the music was composed by Toru Funamura.

It’s a piece that sings of the bond between parent and child as they visit Tokyo’s famous landmarks, featuring lyrics familiar to many older listeners.

Nostalgic places like Nijubashi, Kudanzaka, and Asakusa make appearances.

At the time of its release, it was also used as a film theme song and became a major hit, selling 1.5 million copies.

It’s great for Mother’s Day events—sing it as a chorus or enjoy it with your mother while reminiscing.

You’re sure to be soothed by Shimakura’s gentle vocals.