Autumn songs from the Showa era: A collection of classic masterpieces that colored the J-POP scene
On a somewhat wistful autumn evening, standing by the window and watching the sunset, it’s the season when you feel like listening to nostalgic Showa-era pop songs.
As the maples and ginkgoes turn color, a trove of gem-like autumn classics soothes the heart.
Songs of autumn we heard as children reveal a strangely different expression when we listen to them now as adults.
In this article, we’ll introduce beloved autumn-themed masterpieces from the Showa period, along with numbers that evoke an autumnal mood.
Whether you’re reminiscing about your youth or discovering them for the first time, please enjoy the wonderful world of song.
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Autumn Songs of the Showa Era: A Collection of J-POP Masterpieces (51–60)
September RainŌta Hiromi
Often regarded as an iconic song symbolizing autumn in the Showa era, this track is Hiromi Ohta’s ninth single, released in September 1977.
With lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and music by Kyohei Tsutsumi, its wistful melody beautifully captures the poignant scenes of autumn.
Following “Momen no Handkerchief” and “Akai High Heels,” it became another major hit for Ohta, breaking into the weekly top 10 on the Oricon charts.
She performed it at the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen at the end of the same year, leaving a deep impression on many listeners.
It is a gem that resonates with a mature sensibility—perfect for listening alone on a long autumn night.
October StormNakamori Akina
A masterpiece that vividly captures an October storm.
Within this ballad, which fuses pop and synth-pop, threads of romantic misunderstandings and the premonition of parting are woven together, blending poignancy with strength.
Akina Nakamori’s richly expressive vocals further elevate the song’s world.
Included on the album “POSSIBILITY,” released on October 10, 1984, the track had no official tie-in, yet it has remained a steadfast favorite among fans.
It’s recommended not only for those troubled by love, but also for anyone standing at a crossroads in life.
Listen on a long autumn night, and it’s sure to resonate in your heart.
Savor this gem of a song, brimming with Nakamori’s allure.
Autumn breeze in a puzzle gameKojima Misan
It’s a classic that evokes the wistfulness of autumn and the end of a romance.
Included on the album “MICHILLE,” released in September 1986, this track showcases Mishio Kojima’s delicate vocals.
Against the backdrop of autumn winds, the protagonist’s emotions—complex like a puzzle—are portrayed alongside a melancholic melody.
Chiro Ru Tanio’s poignant lyrics and Masaki Matsubara’s urbane composition blend beautifully, resonating deeply with listeners.
This work continues to be loved by many as a song best enjoyed quietly on long autumn nights.
Stay by my side even after autumnMinamino Yoko
A hit song by Nanno, Yoko Minamino, from 1988—the era when single cassette tapes and slim long-jacket single CDs were being released.
It also made headlines for being Japan’s first “color CD,” with a tinted disc.
The straightforward expressions of affection—saying “I like you” and “I love you”—feel like a scene unique to autumn, and they suit the slightly more mature Yoko Minamino perfectly.
The “autumn = romance” formula is a classic in idol music, but this is still a wonderful Showa-era autumn song you’ll want to hear.
Autumn Songs of the Showa Era: A Collection of Classic J-POP Highlights (61–70)
Love, my deepest apologies for troubling you when you are so busy.Harayuko
Many songs themed around autumn were created in the Showa era, but among them, this track featuring Haru Yoko Hara of Southern All Stars has enjoyed immense popularity ever since its 1983 release.
Its lyrics—beloved across generations—and a sound that evokes Southern All Stars while sounding refreshingly clear thanks to Hara’s vocals are distinctive, conjuring an image of fun-filled days that continue even after summer ends.
Spend a long autumn night with this song, and you’ll savor an autumn with a unique twist.
Among the countless masterpieces of the Showa era, this song’s charm makes it truly special.
Christmas in OctoberAsaka Yui
A bittersweet love song that portrays an autumn romance.
Yui Asaka’s clear, translucent vocals beautifully capture the feelings of a girl in love.
Released in September 1986, the song was also featured in a commercial for Snow Brand’s “Yogur.” It was Asaka’s fifth single and has become one of the signature tracks of her early career.
The lyrics are memorable for overlaying the feelings of lovers who can’t wait for Christmas onto the month of October.
It’s recommended for anyone who wants to feel the flutter of a sweet romance or needs a perfect song for a long autumn night.
Asaka’s music possesses a timeless appeal that resonates with new generations of fans as well.
The smell of September rainIijima Mari
It’s an autumn masterpiece, rendered with a delicate sensibility that makes the cityscape soaked in September rain unfold before your eyes.
Mari Iijima’s transparent vocals ride a gently wistful melody, beautifully expressing the changing seasons and tender sentiments.
Included on the album “Miss Lemon,” released in April 1988, the song shines with a refined musicality that incorporates elements of city pop and AOR.
With a quietly reflective mood that makes you want to listen on a rainy day, it’s perfect for those who wish to spend a long autumn night at ease.