Heart-touching, tear-jerking masterpieces from the Showa era
When you think of tear-jerking songs from the Showa era, timeless classics come to mind, don’t they?
In this article, we’ve gathered moving masterpieces from the Showa period, including Showa kayō (pop), New Music, folk songs, and more.
Many of these songs have a relaxed tempo, letting you really listen to the lyrics—one of the charms of Showa music.
Each genre and artist has its own distinct flavor, yet they all have a gentle, lingering impact.
We’ll spotlight not only the standard classics and farewell songs, but also some uniquely moving tracks with a different edge.
Now, let’s listen to the tear-jerking masterpieces of the Showa era.
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Soul-stirring Tearjerker Classics from the Showa Era (41–50)
Fall in LoveKobayashi Akiko
A gem of a love song that portrays the aching feelings of a woman in love.
With moving lyrics by Reiko Yukawa and a beautiful melody composed by Akiko Kobayashi herself, this work harmonizes perfectly to vividly depict the delicate emotions of a woman suffering from a forbidden love.
Released in August 1985, it was also used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Friday Wives.” It topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart seven times and became a massive hit, ranking third on the 1985 year-end chart.
Even today, it continues to be beloved by people of all ages as a song that stays close to the hearts of those who harbor secret affections and wavering emotions.
Orphan Hachishimazaki yuri
Feelings for a mother and hope are woven through a voice that balances gentleness and strength.
With her clear, translucent vocals, Yuri Shimazaki paints scenes that tenderly envelop the story of a small protagonist’s adventure and growth.
You can’t help but empathize with the figure who continues their journey with love and courage in their heart, making this a heartwarming work that gives you the strength to move forward step by step.
Released as a single by Nippon Columbia in May 1970, it captured the hearts of many viewers as the opening theme for the anime “Mitsubachi Māya no Bōken” (Insect Story: Orphan Hacchi).
In 1974, she also performed the theme for the sequel, successfully enriching the world of the series.
It’s the perfect song for when you need encouragement or want to lift someone’s spirits.
Song of Hakushon Daimaoshimazaki yuri
Starting with adorable opening sound effects, the friendly lyrics vividly conjure the image of a great demon king emerging from a magic jar.
His character—honest, quick to tears, and full of human warmth—is wonderfully portrayed, making this a heartwarming piece that children and adults alike can enjoy.
Yuri Shimazaki’s bright, soaring vocals further enhance the comedic storytelling atmosphere.
Released by Nippon Columbia in October 1969, it gained popularity as the opening theme for a Fuji TV–broadcast anime airing at the same time.
It’s a perfect track for moments when everyone wants to have fun together—like family time on holidays or children’s events.
Cape TourYamamoto Kōtarō to Uīkuendo
It’s a classic song that poignantly portrays a bittersweet love journey, marked by striking images of a beautiful sea and cape.
The gentle, refreshing melody harmonizes beautifully with lyrical verses that circle around memories of a cherished person who has been lost.
The delicate depiction of traveling alone on a trip once promised to a loved one conveys a quiet resilience—a resolve to move forward while carrying sorrow.
Yamamoto Kotaro and The Weekend debuted with this song in June 1974, and it became a major hit, reaching No.
5 on the Oricon charts.
It has long been beloved as the station melody on the Keikyu Kurihama Line and was also used as the ending theme for the anime Heaven’s Lost Property.
For those who have experienced parting from someone dear or who carry deep feelings in their hearts, this song will gently keep them company.
In conclusion
I introduced some tear-jerking classics from the Showa era.
There were many different types of songs, but I felt that many Showa tearjerkers gently seep into your heart.
The tempos are relaxed, and the words flow in smoothly.
I’d be happy if you found a song that moves you to tears.