Chiyoko Shimakura’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Goodbye, people of Tokyo.Shimakura Chiyoko15rank/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 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.

Parody of ‘Life Is Full of Ups and Downs’: ‘Life in Tatters’Shimakura Chiyoko21rank/position

[Life Has Its Ups and Downs – Parody Song – Life in Tatters] Let’s encourage each other and live with energy. #parodysong #anthemfortheseniorgeneration #lifevaries #ChiyokoShimachura

Here is an idea for a parody of Chiyoko Shimakura’s famous song “Jinsei Iroiro” (Life Has Many Varieties), titled “Jinsei Boroboro” (Life in Tatters).

“Jinsei Iroiro” sings of the turmoil of life—women’s struggles and tears, and rising beyond them toward hope.

In contrast, “Jinsei Boroboro” portrays a senior who still has things he wants to try, values effort, lives humbly, and understands he must appreciate his wife.

It expresses the anxieties awaiting in old age and a man’s resolve to face the life ahead.

Surely many of you can relate not only to the worries, but also to the desire to see hope in one’s later years.

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kojifumi

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