Songs We Want to Listen to and Sing! Masterpieces and Popular Hits of Reiwa-era Enka
In this article, we’ll introduce standout enka songs delivered in the Reiwa era—recommended not only for devoted enka fans but for music lovers of all kinds.
We’ve compared various rankings to bring you not only the most popular tracks but also essential gems you should know.
From classic, traditional enka to fresh, new-wave enka that incorporates innovative styles, you’ll find plenty to enjoy across a wide range of appeals.
If you’re interested in Reiwa-era enka—from famous veteran singers to noteworthy up-and-coming artists—this is a must-check!
We hope this article gives you a chance to discover and connect with enka, even just a little.
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[Want to Listen, Want to Sing!] Masterpieces and Popular Songs of Reiwa Enka (1–10)
The Bells of Santa MariaTakeshima Hiroshi
Hiroshi Takeshima’s “Santa Maria no Kane,” released on March 15, 2023, brings a fresh breeze to the enka scene of the Reiwa era.
As the final piece in his Europe trilogy, the song delicately portrays a story of love and reunion set against the beautiful backdrop of Florence.
Takeshima’s narration-like vocal technique further heightens the song’s emotional impact.
With a mature romantic flavor, it can be said to have opened a new horizon for Reiwa-era enka.
Highly recommended for those who want to savor the depth and poignancy of love, and for anyone who wishes to surrender to a beautiful story.
Thanks to Takeshima’s superb expressive power, the song’s world is conveyed more deeply and is sure to captivate a broad range of listeners.
Kokoro KaleidoscopeYamauchi Keisuke
Keisuke Yamauchi’s “Kokoro Mangekyo” (Heart Kaleidoscope) is a single released on March 1, 2023, symbolizing a new musical challenge.
Comparing life’s complexity and beauty to a kaleidoscope, the song is crafted to give each listener courage for their daily battles.
The phrases layered over the image of a kaleidoscope reflecting many colors are striking, conveying the importance of living in the present.
A signature hit of 2023 that topped the USEN HIT year-end rankings, it’s a track with a well-balanced lift that makes it great for karaoke, too.
Marking a turning point as Yamauchi turned 40, this work refreshes his image and is a masterpiece recommended not only for enka fans but for all music lovers.
Cape HyugaMizumori Kaori
Known as the Queen of Local Songs, Kaori Mizumori’s “Hyuga Misaki” is a track I’d recommend not only to enka fans but to a wide range of music listeners.
Released on January 24, 2023, it offers a profound portrayal of heartbreak and new beginnings.
Mizumori, moved by the natural beauty she encountered during an actual visit to Cape Hyuga in Miyazaki Prefecture, poured those impressions into the song; if you listen while picturing that scenery, the emotional highs and lows and the inner conflicts embedded in the music come through even more vividly.
It expresses the strength and hope found after overcoming heartbreak, and its powerful message is sure to resonate with many.
second generationKimura Tetsuji
Released on November 16, 2022, Tetsuji Kimura’s “Nidaime” can rightly be said to have opened up a new frontier for enka.
Kimura, the second son of Ichiro Toba, grew up in a musically rich household.
In “Nidaime,” he powerfully expresses both the expectations he bears and his determination to honor and carry on his predecessor’s legacy.
The song resonates deeply with its profound respect for his mentor and family, as well as its message of reflecting on one’s own path in life.
In particular, phrases like “If you can’t cherish your family, there’s no way you can do a fine job” teach values that are fundamental to us as people.
It’s a work that offers fresh inspiration not only to younger fans but also to those who have loved enka for many years.
A highly recommended track for anyone seeking the essence of classic enka!
The camellia princess has bloomed.Oka Midori
Released on February 22, 2023, Midori Oka’s single “Tsubaki-hime Saita” portrays the delicate emotions of love and parting through the image of the camellia flower.
Inspired by the opera La Traviata, the song’s depiction of a woman’s inner feelings pierces the heart, elevated by Oka’s expressive vocals.
Its film-like, dramatic narrative arc is equally moving—enough to bring tears to your eyes.
Even those who aren’t avid music fans will find themselves drawn in by its charm.
“Tsubaki-hime Saita,” which can be seen as a new challenge for Midori Oka, is truly a new masterpiece of Reiwa-era enka—one that resonates deeply.