Chiyoko Shimakura’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

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

Life is full of ups and downs.

This is a gem of a melody that gently sings of the joys and hardships of life.

The strength to live through inner conflict and adversity is warmly embraced by the rich, lustrous vocals.

Once you hear it, it resonates in your heart—a work filled with hope.

Released by Chiyoko Shimakura in 1987, this song, following her 30 consecutive appearances on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, became a major springboard for her participation in the 1988 broadcast.

Brimming with memories, the piece also features lyrics that resonate with the life experiences of older adults.

Humming along together at events such as Respect-for-the-Aged gatherings can create a heartwarming shared moment.

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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Karatachi DiaryShimakura Chiyoko6rank/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.

Higashine Onsen KoutaShimakura Chiyoko7rank/position

Higashine Onsen Ko-uta.wmv

The hot spring area in Higashine City, Yamagata Prefecture is also known as Sakuranbo Higashine Onsen, as the region is famous for cherries.

The singer of this song is Chiyoko Shimakura before her debut, likely around 1957 (Showa 32).

Since her debut song was “Kono Yo no Hana,” this is quite a treasure.