Ichiro Toba’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Shima PeninsulaToba Ichirō15rank/position

Shima Peninsula

A locally rooted enka that rises with the scent of the tide and the shimmer of pearl rafts.

Born and raised by the sea, Ichiro Toba’s voice vividly portrays Wagu, Oshima, Maehama Fishing Port, and the “Shiokake Festival,” powerfully conveying pride and human warmth.

The weight of someone from Toba City in Mie Prefecture with experience in deep-sea fishing resonates, letting you feel, almost on your skin, the heat of the port’s labor and festivities.

In some years the event draws around 10,000 visitors, and there is a monument inscribed with the song at Shima Fureai Park.

Released as a single in August 2001, with lyrics by Ryuichi Satomura, composition by Katsuhiko Miki, and arrangement by Masakane Tsuta.

It was included on the October 2001 album “Ichiro Toba: Complete Collection,” and later on the album “Kono Michi.” The B-side is “Daio no Shippu” (Gale of Daio).

It was performed at the 52nd NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2001.

This track is recommended for coastal drives or nights when you’re thinking of your hometown.

Its surging rhythm stirs your memories.

Hyuga-nada (Hyuga Sea)Toba Ichirō16rank/position

Hyuga-nada / Ichiro Toba cover by Keizo

Because the Kuroshio Current flows through the Pacific waters off the eastern coast of Miyazaki Prefecture, the Hyuga-nada is ideal for fishing and, as mentioned in the lyrics, serves as a fishing ground for tuna and bonito.

While the song powerfully portrays rugged, manly fishermen, it also conveys the loneliness of their work—thinking of their mothers and the lovers waiting for them back home as they head out to sea.

Showa-era manToba Ichirō17rank/position

Ichiro Toba “Showa no Otoko” MUSIC VIDEO

Enka singer Ichiro Toba, who has long sung of the spirit of “men of the sea.” As its title suggests, “Showa no Otoko” is a classic enka number that portrays the way of life of a man who ran straight through the Showa era.

The protagonist, clumsy yet unwavering in his convictions and walking through life with sincerity, is brought to life by Toba’s powerful yet warm vocals.

Toba himself has said he poured his strong feelings for his father, who survived the Showa era, into the song—and you can feel that intensity resonating in his voice.

Perfect for those who want to hear a song about a man with an unshakable backbone, or when you want to touch the heart of good old Japan.

Kurushima StraitToba Ichirō18rank/position

Kurushima Strait ~ Osaka Bay.wmv

Located off the coast of Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture, the Kurushima Strait has long been known as one of the most treacherous parts of the sea—first Kurushima, second Naruto, and third Kanmon.

This song likens its swift currents to a man’s way of life.

Although Raymund Matsuya also has a song with the same title, it is a completely different piece.

Rain at Hase-dera — On the Yamato Road in Late AutumnToba Ichirō19rank/position

Rain at Hase-dera — Late Autumn on the Yamato Road

The single “Hasedera no Ame ~Banshū no Yamatoji~,” sung by Ichirō Toba, will be released in April 2026.

It was originally the B-side to the single “Tomobai yo,” released in February 2025, but was promoted to the title track thanks to strong local support.

Set at Hasedera, an ancient temple in Nara Prefecture, this local enka song portrays a man’s heart swaying with an unbreakable love.

Recommended for those nursing the pain of heartbreak.

Ama divers of TobaToba Ichirō20rank/position

Ichirō Toba “Toba no Ama” MUSIC VIDEO

A song distinguished by a melody that resonates with the heartstrings and gentle lyrics.

Its poignant yet powerful words portray the life of an ama diver and the bonds of family, permeating through with Ichiro Toba’s rich, resonant voice.

Released in May 2024, this work has become one of the most personally meaningful songs in his long career.

Filled with love for his hometown of Toba, it’s perfect for those who feel nostalgic for their roots or cherish family ties.

It’s a song with a quiet, lingering savor—one that makes you want to relax with a drink as you breathe in the scent of the sea.

two peopleIchirō Toba, Yuri Harada21rank/position

Ichiro Toba & Yuri Harada “Futari” Music Video

The duet song Futari by Ichiro Toba and Yuri Harada is a moving piece that portrays the strong bond of couples and lovers who overcome trials together.

The work is memorable for its phrases that convey a sense of complete unity when the two are together, and the seasoned vocals of both singers powerfully express the strength to find hope in the darkness and face hardships side by side.

It’s a perfect choice for karaoke duets that let you feel the bond between two people.

When you look back on the difficulties you’ve overcome with the one you love, be sure to listen to Futari.