[Classic Hits] Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs!
There are so many masterpieces from the Showa-era anime that have gone down in history, aren’t there?
Even if you don’t remember the plots that well, many people can still sing the theme songs—or the moment they hear a song, the anime comes rushing back.
Here, we’re showcasing a generous selection, including anime songs that were big hits in the Showa period and tracks that are being reappraised today through the lens of city pop’s popularity.
When you get together with friends from the same generation who watched those shows, a karaoke session with a “Showa anime songs only” rule is sure to be a blast.
And of course, even if you don’t know much about anime from that era but are curious, please give these songs a listen!
- [Showa Classics] A Collection of Nostalgic 70s Anime Songs
- [Nostalgic] A roundup of anime songs and theme songs that were hits in the 1980s
- Recommended anime songs for people in their 50s. Classic and popular anime theme songs.
- Anime songs recommended for people in their 40s, from nostalgic classics to the latest hits.
- Anime songs recommended for people in their 60s: from nostalgic classics to the latest hits
- [Nostalgic Songs] A compilation of classic anime themes that hit home for those born in the Showa and Heisei eras
- Moving and iconic anime songs, popular tracks
- [Nostalgic] A special feature on legendary anime theme songs: revisiting those classic tracks
- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z
- Hit songs in Japan in the late 1960s
- [Nostalgic] Classic and Popular Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 30s
Classic Hits: Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs! (41–50)
Dororon Enma-kunChinatsu Nakayama
A song that vividly depicts the mysterious world of yokai was released in 1973 as the opening theme for a TV anime.
With lyrics by Chinatsu Nakayama and music by Asei Kobayashi, the melody wonderfully captures the strange yet humorous nature of these spirits.
The piece playfully recounts the mischief of yokai emerging from the underworld with a bright, light rhythm, offering a friendly charm that appeals to both children and adults.
Its lyrics, imbued with affection for Japan’s traditional yokai culture, harmonize beautifully with a catchy melody.
It’s a recommended track for anyone who wants to spend a fun time with yokai or enjoy a nostalgic Showa-era anime song.
Fight! PolymerIsao Sasaki
This is a powerful, up-tempo track brimming with the spirit of 1970s hero anime.
A forceful rock-style performance pairs with fiery vocals reminiscent of steel-like strength, brilliantly conveying the protagonist’s courage and power.
The tense developments and high-velocity rhythm further heighten the realism of battle scenes, making it a superb piece.
Released in October 1974 as a tie-in song for the third installment of Tatsunoko Production’s sci-fi action hero TV anime series, it was later used in a live-action film as well.
Showcasing Isao Sasaki’s overwhelming vocal prowess, this track is perfect for moments when you want to stoke your fighting spirit or boost your motivation.
Tetsujin 28-goDuke Aces
Here is a classic anime song that represents the Showa era.
Released in 1963 as the theme song for the anime Tetsujin 28-go, this track—sung by Duke Aces with a powerful melody and memorable lyrics—has been loved by generations, from children to adults.
Through the dual nature of Tetsujin 28-go as both a “champion of justice” and a “pawn of evil,” it expresses universal themes such as how technology is used and human responsibility.
Also included on the album CM WORKS, the song carries the atmosphere of the Showa period while presenting profound questions relevant to modern society.
It’s a recommended listen not only for anime fans but also for anyone seeking a sense of Showa-era nostalgia.
Daichan Counting SongYoshimi Yoshida
Known as an anime song with the flavor of enka, this piece was released in 1970.
It was put out under the name Yoshimi Yoshida by Yoshimi Tendo, who was a junior high school student at the time.
Beloved as the opening theme for the anime Inakappe Taisho, it features counting-song style lyrics.
The powerful vocals vividly express the protagonist’s growth, dreams, and earnest—if slightly clumsy—spirit.
The melody shaped by the rhythm of Japanese taiko drums and lyrics in the traditional 7-5 meter is striking, and it continues to be loved across generations, having been featured on NHK’s Shin BS Nihon no Uta in April 2023.
It’s a song that gives courage and energy to anyone setting out on a new step in life.
The Star of the SeineColumbia Cradle Society
Set in Paris during the French Revolution, this work, which colors the story of a young girl, is marked by the beautiful vocals of Arène and the Columbia Yurikago-kai.
Carried by a brave yet wistful melody, it conveys the heroine’s steadfast will and solitude as she fights for freedom and love.
French phrases woven throughout further enhance the work’s distinctive world.
The LP record was released by Nippon Columbia in June 1975 and was used as the opening theme for the television anime of the same name.
One month after the anime began airing, Arène visited Japan and held six events mainly in the Kanto region.
With its moving, beautiful melody and crystalline vocals, this is a recommended track for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the story’s world along with nostalgic memories.
Oak Wood MocKumiko Onogi
With a bright, lively rhythm and a catchy, child-friendly melody, this heartwarming song conveys the importance of kindness and human bonds.
It expresses the protagonist’s innocence and positive spirit through simple yet memorable phrases, resulting in a familiar tune that anyone can hum along to.
The clear, gentle vocals of Kumiko Onogi and the Columbia Yurikago Kai softly deliver the story’s message.
Released in January 1972, it was used as the opening theme for an anime produced by Tatsunoko Production.
It has continued to be loved for many years and cherished by people of all ages.
It’s a nostalgic track that can be enjoyed with family and friends.
Together with Don ChuckKumiko Osugi
The charming theme song born from a beloved 1970s anime is full of appeal that captivates children’s hearts.
Its lively melody and cheerful calls joyfully portray the wonderful friendships among the forest animals.
Kumiko Ōsugi’s clear, transparent voice gently sings of the protagonist’s sense of adventure and bonds with friends.
Released by Canyon Records in June 1975, it was also included on the album “Time of Radiance: Songs of Kindness.” The song was cherished as the opening theme for the anime of the same name, which aired from April to September 1975.
It’s a bright, uplifting tune you can enjoy humming along to and moving your body with together with your children.