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)
Rainy BlueTokunaga Hideaki
This is the major debut single by singer-songwriter Hideaki Tokunaga, who has earned enduring popularity with his distinctive high-tone voice and lyrical singing.
Given how many prominent musicians have covered it, chances are everyone has heard it at least once.
The lingering feelings for an unforgettable, precious person intertwine with the rainy scenery, and Tokunaga’s androgynous, translucent vocals double the sense of poignancy.
Its fragile, beautiful melody soothes a wounded man’s heart, making it a quintessential unrequited-love song.
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.
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.
The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at the heartstrings. Shōwa-era tearjerker songs (11–20)
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.
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.
Sake, Tears, Men, and WomenKawashima Eigo
A signature work by Eigo Kawashima, etched in many hearts as a classic of the Showa era.
The lyrics, which portray the differences between men’s and women’s expressions of sorrow through alcohol and tears, resonate deeply.
Released in June 1976, the song was also used in a commercial for Kizakura Sake Brewery and became a major hit.
Its melody, infused with folk elements, and Kawashima’s powerful vocals are captivating.
It’s a track that offers empathy and solace when you’re feeling life’s hardships and loneliness.
Hugely popular at karaoke, it continues to be sung across generations.
A woman born in OsakaBORO
Set in Showa-era Osaka, this signature song by BORO gives voice to a bittersweet love and quiet resolve.
The lyrics, reflecting the trends of the time, capture the end of youth while expressing feelings for a beloved.
Released in August 1979, the track became a major hit, selling a total of 179,000 copies on the Oricon charts.
The work portrays a woman whose affection for Osaka intersects with her determination to embark on a new life, making it especially resonant for those who relate to the tug-of-war between hometown pride and romantic love.
Its nostalgic, aching vocals may just bring tears to your eyes.