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 (41–50)
The Harbor of Lingering AffectionMori Shinichi
A bittersweet love song set in a wistful port town.
Shinichi Mori’s distinctive husky voice powerfully gives voice to a heart lost in the name of lingering regrets.
The vivid imagery—so striking you can almost see a woman on the pier, buffeted by the cold sea breeze as she waits for her lover—leaves a lasting impression.
Released in July 2024 as his 130th single, this gem reunites the same creative team behind the 2003 release “Ai no Kawa.” With lyrics that feel like a scene from a film, the song is sure to resonate with anyone struggling in love.
It’s a track brimming with mature allure, one you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night.
Kazahana CapeIshihara Junko
A song by Junko Ishihara that sings of bittersweet emotions set on a northern cape.
Amid harsh nature where snow flurries dance, Ishihara’s clear, translucent voice beautifully conveys the loneliness of a woman standing alone.
Listening to it makes you feel as if you’re surrounded by white snow and a cold wind.
Released in July 2024, the song was featured on an NHK radio program and has become a topic of conversation.
The music video is also available on Ishihara’s official YouTube channel.
It’s a track you’ll want to enjoy on a winter night, relaxing in a warm room.
It’s sure to resonate with anyone struggling with matters of the heart.
Rainy Harbor StationHanasaki Yukimi
Yukimi Hanasaki’s new song paints a heartrending scene in a port town.
It’s a piece that lets you fully savor the charm of a mellow enka ballad.
The emotions of a woman reluctant to part at a rainy train station are beautifully conveyed through Hanasaki’s rich, lustrous vocals.
Released in May 2024 after about a year and a half, the track preserves the strengths of traditional enka while incorporating a modern sensibility, making it enjoyable for listeners of all ages.
It’s a perfect song for the rainy season—be sure to listen closely.
Shirakami-SanchiNagayama Yōko
This is a powerful track distinguished by its standing Tsugaru-shamisen performance.
Released in June 2024, the song fully showcases Yoko Nagayama’s appeal as an enka singer.
The composition is by Tsuyoshi Nishi, with lyrics by Noriyo Suzuki.
The coupling track includes a chanson-style pop song titled “Haru-iro no Asa” (Spring-colored Morning), making it a release that highlights Nagayama’s musical breadth.
Having transitioned from idol to enka singer and produced numerous hits, this single offers a glimpse of a new side of Nagayama.
It’s a recommended listen not only for enka fans but also for anyone looking to explore new music.
Still in YokohamaKadamatsu Miyuki
This is Miyuki Kadomatsu’s sixth single, released in July 2024.
Set in Yokohama, the lyrics portray lingering feelings from a bittersweet romance, made all the more poignant by her clear, powerful vocals.
The song features a mid-tempo melody and conveys a musical approach that honors the traditions of kayōkyoku while exploring new possibilities.
A release live was held on the same day, providing a chance to deepen her connection with fans.
Why not immerse yourself in the scenery and atmosphere of Yokohama and reflect on the bittersweet emotions of love that everyone has experienced at least once?
Tsugaru Shamisen StorySaisei
This is a warm-hearted song themed around the shamisen rooted in the land of Tsugaru.
Written and composed by Ikuzo Yoshi, it was released in February 2025.
It’s an enka number that gently weaves together the protagonist’s feelings toward their parents and pride in the shamisen, having chosen a path away from their hometown.
A modern, rock-like arrangement and effective use of electric guitar shine throughout.
Ayasei’s emotionally rich vocals, singing of gratitude to father and mother and a longing for home, and the shamisen’s evocative tones that resonate like memories, sink deep into the heart.
The scenic descriptions are superb, such as the scene of looking up at the stars on a blizzardy night while thinking of home.
It’s a song that offers comfort to those living apart from their families and hometown.
In conclusion
We’ve introduced a roundup of must-hear enka songs from the Reiwa era. Alongside the timeless appeal of traditional enka, I felt that enka-kayō experimenting with various flavors and creative twists has been spreading. It might be a good idea to start by skimming through a playlist like this to discover some favorites!