When you think of actresses from the Showa era, who comes to mind?
In this article, we’ll introduce some of the most popular actresses who represent the Showa period.
We’ve picked a variety of actresses—those who appeared in classic Showa-era dramas and films that continue to be loved across generations, as well as those who keep captivating many people even as they grow older.
Even if you don’t know their names, you might think, “I’ve seen her in that work!”
If there’s an actress you liked or are curious about, be sure to check out the works she appeared in!
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List of beloved Showa-era popular actresses: Introducing the iconic actresses who bring back memories (1–10)
Hibari Misora
In the history of Showa-era entertainment, this person’s presence is indispensable.
Known as the “Queen of Kayōkyoku,” Hibari Misora also left a brilliant legacy as a film actress.
After debuting at the age of nine, her talent blossomed quickly, and in 1949 she starred in a film for the first time in Sad Girl’s Blues (Kanashiki Kuchibue).
The theme song of the same title was also a major hit, captivating people with both her acting and singing.
Her expressive range was astonishing—not only enka and kayōkyoku but even jazz—and her charming performances as one of the “Three Daughters,” such as in the film Rock, Paper, Scissors Girl (Janken Musume), remain unforgettable.
In July 1989, she received the People’s Honor Award, cementing her achievements for eternity.
If you’d like to see her youthful brilliance in nostalgic films or immerse yourself in her soul-stirring voice, please be sure to explore her works.
Ruriko Asaoka
Ruriko Asaoka, known as a superstar symbolizing Nikkatsu’s golden age.
Since making her film debut in the mid-1950s, she has played the heroine in countless works and led the Japanese film industry.
In addition to her acting career, she was active as a singer and left behind classic mood-kayo songs.
Many people likely remember often listening to her 1969 single “Ai no Kaseki” (“Fossil of Love”) and her duets with Yujiro Ishihara.
Her role as Lily in the “It’s Tough Being a Man” (Otoko wa Tsurai yo) film series was particularly memorable, with her delightful back-and-forth with Tora-san.
Along with numerous accolades such as the Japan Academy Prize, she was also awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon—achievements that shine brightly.
Why not revisit those memories of the time through the nostalgic films and songs?
Machiko Kyō
Machiko Kyō, a former member of the Osaka Shochiku Girls’ Opera Company, was a major star who helped sustain the golden age of postwar Japanese cinema.
She joined Daiei in 1949 and began working in films in earnest, playing the heroine in globally acclaimed masterpieces such as Rashomon and Ugetsu.
Released in 1950, Rashomon won the top prize at the Venice International Film Festival, catapulting her name to worldwide fame.
Her alluring yet powerful performances earned her the moniker “Grand Prix Actress,” and she received numerous awards, including from the Mainichi Film Awards.
In 1987, she was also awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon.
She enjoyed a long career not only in film but also on stage, always maintaining a dignified and truly captivating presence.
For anyone who wants to revisit that overwhelming screen presence in classic Showa-era films, she is an actress I highly recommend.
Meiko Kaji
Speaking of Meiko Kaji, she is one of the iconic actresses who vividly colored the silver screen of the Showa era with her cool gaze and dignified presence.
She joined Nikkatsu and debuted in 1965, delivering a commanding presence as a solitary heroine in film series such as Stray Cat Rock and Female Prisoner Scorpion.
She also displayed talent as a singer, with her self-performed theme song Urami Bushi becoming a major hit.
Her voice, imbued with deep emotion, earned acclaim across the seas and has been paid homage to in international films.
It’s well known that globally renowned filmmakers, including Quentin Tarantino, are ardent admirers of her work.
In recent years, she has continued to be active at the forefront, receiving honors such as the Kinuyo Tanaka Award.
Many are surely inspired by the way she continues to take on new challenges and shine ever brighter as she grows older.
Yuko Tanaka
Yuko Tanaka is one of Japan’s leading actresses known for her powerful performances.
She joined the Bungakuza theater company in 1979 and made a sensational debut, sweeping newcomer awards at various film festivals for works including the 1981 film “Ee ja nai ka.” In NHK’s long-running morning drama “Oshin,” which aired from April 1983, she portrayed the protagonist in her youth, struggling to survive—a role that moved the entire nation to tears.
Many of you probably remember that huge boom.
Beyond acting, she also pursued a singing career, releasing the album “Oyoi deru…” in June 1986, leaving behind urban and captivating works as a vocalist.
Her passionate performance in the film “Amagi-goe” was also outstanding, earning her numerous honors including the Japan Academy Prize.
Please take the time to revisit and savor her many unforgettable performances that resonate deeply in the heart.
Hideko Takamine
Affectionately known by the nickname “Deco-chan,” Hideko Takamine left an indelible mark on the history of Japanese cinema.
She made her debut as a child actor in the 1929 film Mother and quickly drew attention as a prodigy.
She went on to appear in works by directors such as Keisuke Kinoshita and Mikio Naruse, amassing more than 300 screen credits over her lifetime.
Her acclaimed performances in the 1954 film Twenty-Four Eyes and the following year’s Floating Clouds surely still resonate with many today.
In 1965, she won the Best Actress Award at the Locarno International Film Festival for the film Yearning, earning high praise abroad as well.
Beyond acting, she also left a literary legacy as an essayist, including works like My Itinerant Life Diary.
Why not revisit her world, which also showcases her charm as a singer?
Tamao Nakamura
Born into a distinguished kabuki family and also known as the wife of actor Shintaro Katsu, Tamao Nakamura entered the film industry in 1953.
The following year, she signed an exclusive contract with Daiei and appeared in numerous productions.
In 1960, her performances in the films “Bonchi” and “The Great Bodhisattva Pass” earned her the Blue Ribbon Award for Best Supporting Actress, establishing her as a talented young actress.
With her charming personality, she also became very popular on variety shows and expanded her activities as a singer.
At the 57th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2006, she performed “Kumano Kodo,” taking the stage of her dreams.
For those who find comfort in her gentle manner of speaking or who feel nostalgic for the golden era of Daiei films in the Showa period, she is truly irresistible.
Do take the time to revisit her works.