Chiyoko Shimakura’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Life is full of ups and downs.Shimakura Chiyoko1rank/position

Chiyoko Shimakura – Life Has Its Ups and Downs

This is her biggest hit, released on April 21, 1987.

She performed it at that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, which helped broaden its appeal among younger generations, and it became a major hit that sets the joys and sorrows of life to a light, upbeat rhythm.

The overall vocal range of the song is a calm F3–G4, so the key is that you can sing it without forcing your voice from the start.

When singing, instead of projecting with a big voice, try placing the voice right in front of you to maintain a composed tone.

In the latter half, the key changes and the range goes higher, so open your eyes wide and be careful not to let the pitch drop.

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Kubota Mami

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Cape TappiShimakura Chiyoko2rank/position

Cape Tappi

The single “Tappi Misaki,” released by Chiyoko Shimakura in 1971, is a particularly memorable song in her long career.

Its appeal lies in the unique world it creates through elements of traditional Japanese music, including the Tsugaru shamisen, the emotionally rich lyrics by Miyuki Ishimoto, and Shimakura’s deep, resonant vocals.

The work portrays a Japanese landscape where poignancy and beauty intersect, stirring the hearts of listeners.

It is especially recommended for fans of enka or for moments when you want to contemplate Japan’s beautiful scenery.

Shimakura’s expressive singing is sure to deeply move listeners of any generation.

Tanabata DanceShimakura Chiyoko3rank/position

Tanabata Dance / Chiyoko Shimakura / With Lyrics

This is a classic song that continues to be cherished locally as a quintessential summer tradition coloring Sendai’s Tanabata Festival.

Released in July 1962 as a single by Chiyoko Shimakura, the piece features folk-like melodic turns and a light, lively rhythm that instantly puts you in a festive mood just by listening.

The lyrics depict scenes of Sendai, such as Aoba Castle and the Hirose River, conjuring images of people in yukata joyfully dancing.

Widely beloved as a Bon-odori song for the Sendai Tanabata Festival, it is also famous for its distinctive fan dance.

Listening to it with people connected to Tohoku might spark lively conversations filled with memories of bustling festivals from days gone by!

Rindō PassShimakura Chiyoko4rank/position

Rindō Pass

We would like to introduce a classic by Chiyoko Shimakura that’s perfect for the autumn season.

Its poignant lyrics, depicting an older sister getting married around the time when gentian flowers bloom, truly resonate.

Released in 1955, this song is known as her second single following her debut.

Because it centers on gentian—an iconic flower of autumn—it’s a great choice to sing with older adults.

Singing while picturing the scenes in the lyrics can stimulate and activate the brain.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to enjoy in a calm mood.

Why not savor the feeling of autumn along with fond memories?

Gion Festival OndoShimakura Chiyoko5rank/position

Gion Festival Ondo — Chiyoko Shimakura / Hideo Yamagata

An indispensable song for Kyoto’s Bon Odori is Gion Festival Ondo.

It’s also used during the Gion Festival, Kyoto’s major summer event, and incorporates the festival’s distinctive chant, “Konkonchikichin.” Released in 1957 as a locally sold record available only in Kyoto, it’s a duet by Chiyoko Shimakura and Hideo Yamagata.

For those living in Kyoto, it’s a familiar tune; for those who once lived there, it’s a nostalgic sound.

Be sure to visit the Gion Festival and listen to Gion Festival Ondo!

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Hamada Takuya

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Naniwa SistersShimakura Chiyoko, Ishikawa Sayuri6rank/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.

Karatachi DiaryShimakura Chiyoko7rank/position

Karatachi Diary

A gem of a classic by Chiyoko Shimakura, delivered with heartfelt emotion.

Released in 1958, this song is characterized by lyrics that vividly depict the pain of heartbreak and loneliness, paired with a melody that stirs poignant feelings.

With lyrics by Sawayaka Nishizawa and music by Shinichi Yoneda, the piece showcases Shimakura’s full vocal and expressive prowess.

The spoken interludes woven into the lyrics and the mid-song shift to a minor key are among the elements that resonate deeply with listeners.

Cherished for decades as a Showa-era masterpiece and featured in television dramas, this work may be a bit challenging—but do give it a try.