The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at your heartstrings. Tear-jerker songs from the Showa era.
The Showa era produced countless timeless masterpieces and legendary artists loved across generations.
In recent years, with the rise of streaming services, it’s become increasingly common to see songs from the Showa period enjoy revival hits.
This time, we’re introducing tear-jerker songs that were born in that Showa era.
While the times and social backdrop differ from today, we’ve compiled a wide-ranging list—from moving tracks to heartrending ones—so you’re sure to find something that resonates with you.
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The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at the heartstrings. Showa-era tearjerker songs (1–10)
Let yourself go with the flow of timeTeresa Ten
This is the 16th single by Teresa Teng, who was enormously popular outside Japan as well and was hailed as the “Songstress of Asia.” The wistful melody carried by her fragile, transparent voice is likely one many people have heard at least once.
Released in 1986, the song became widely known across Asia and has continued to be covered by many musicians even into the 21st century.
Its lyrics, expressing deep love and aching sorrow, continue to resonate across generations.
It is an immortal masterpiece in J-pop history that is sure to liven up not only reunions for those in their 50s and 60s, but also year-end parties where multiple generations gather.
Shadows of Youthchūrippu
This is one of Tulip’s signature songs, imbued with a nostalgic atmosphere.
The lyrics earnestly portray a man’s feelings, and the ballad-style melody matches them exquisitely, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released in June 1974, this track marked an important turning point in Tulip’s musical direction.
Kazuo Zaitsu’s vocals are memorable, and the song has been loved across generations, appearing in many TV dramas and commercials.
Depicting a man’s emotions as he decides to marry, it’s a piece that supports those standing at life’s crossroads.
A heartwarming song recommended both for those who feel nostalgic about their youth and for those stepping into a new stage of life.
CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
A song by Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi known as a tear-jerking, cry-your-eyes-out ballad.
Included on the album “Kanpai,” it’s often sung at life’s milestones such as weddings and graduation ceremonies as an anthem of encouragement.
The lyrics, which sing of the importance of moving forward with love and conviction no matter the hardships, are filled with blessings and support for those stepping onto a new stage in life.
Released in September 1980, the song was even featured in music textbooks.
Covered by numerous musicians, it remains a timeless classic beloved by people of all ages today.
The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at the heartstrings. Shōwa-era tearjerker songs (11–20)
Asakusa KidBīto Takeshi
A song that remains beloved by many as a classic of the Showa era.
Its lyrics, which portray young people chasing their dreams with warmth and bittersweet nuance, resonate across generations.
It was included on the album Asakusa Kid, released in August 1986.
The cover by Masaki Suda and Kenta Kiritani as the theme song for the film Spark (Hibana) also helped the track reach a new audience.
It’s a heart-touching piece to listen to when you feel close to giving up on your dreams or when you want to feel the bond with your friends.
cosmos (flower)Yamaguchi Momoe
This is the 19th single by Momoe Yamaguchi, known as a singer emblematic of the Showa era.
Written and composed by Masashi Sada, the song—released in October 1977—expresses a bride-to-be’s gratitude to her mother.
The lyrics, which use the fragile cosmos flower as a symbol, beautifully capture the delicate emotions of a woman on the verge of marriage.
Blending Yamaguchi’s gentle vocals with Sada’s heartwarming words, it became a classic that has left a deep impression on many.
Frequently performed at weddings and other life milestones, it continues to be cherished across generations.
era; age; time; periodNakajima Miyuki
This is Miyuki Nakajima’s second single, released in December 1975.
Within its calm, narrative delivery, layers of life’s many scenes—parting, loss, and new encounters—overlap, giving it a warmth like a vessel into which listeners can easily pour their own memories and emotions.
Winning the Grand Prix at the 6th World Popular Song Festival held the same year, the song quickly boosted her recognition, and it has continued to be loved across media—for example, it was chosen as the theme song for the film “Memories: You Will Not Be Forgotten,” released in January 2020.
On days when your spirits sink for no particular reason, why not surrender yourself to its gentle melody that feels like a soft push on your back? It’s a song that will stay close when your heart is tired—like a protective charm.
I’ll wait.amin
Released in July 1982 as their debut single, the song is known as the signature work of the female duo Amin.
Its lyrics, depicting a bittersweet love, and its clear, transparent harmonies make it a classic that resonates with many.
The song topped the Oricon annual sales chart and became a massive hit with total sales exceeding 1.2 million copies.
It was also featured in numerous commercials, including Toyota’s “Duet” and SoftBank Mobile’s “ULTRA Wi-Fi,” making it a familiar tune to many.
Delicately expressing the complex feelings of a woman in love, this piece offers solace to those who have experienced heartbreak or harbor unrequited feelings.