A roundup of classic Showa-era kayō songs: a comprehensive introduction to timeless tracks loved across generations.
Songs released in the Showa era—what we call Showa kayokyoku—are truly full of timeless masterpieces!
If you’re an adult born in the Showa period, you probably know just how wildly popular Showa kayokyoku was with the entire nation back then.
Meanwhile, even for younger people born in the Heisei era and later, there are still plenty of Showa kayokyoku songs you hear all the time today, and I’m sure many of you can sing quite a few of them without looking at the lyrics.
In this article, we’ll introduce a whole lineup of Showa kayokyoku classics that have continued to be loved across generations.
Take this opportunity to listen again with fresh ears and immerse yourself fully in the world of kayokyoku.
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Showa Kayō greatest hits roundup: a comprehensive introduction to timeless songs loved across generations (121–130)
Beach of MemoriesZa Wairudowanzu
The Wild Ones, who helped fuel the Group Sounds boom, made a sensational debut with this song, which became a massive hit as their first single.
Its soothing guitar ensemble and choral work not only defined an era but also turned it into a timeless classic that continues to be sung by the next generation.
Leaving sunny Tosa behindPegī Hayama
Precisely because she is one of Japan’s leading jazz singers, this kind of local song—evoking the atmosphere of the tropics and nostalgia for her hometown—can be appreciated without feeling like it’s aping the West.
Also, the scene in the movie Truck Yaro where Sayuri Ishikawa sang a cappella was outstanding.
Kanda RiverMinami Kōsetsu & Kaguyahime
Released in 1973, this song is now famous as one of Japan’s representative folk songs.
Its singing style, filled with a poignant, wistful feeling that vividly evokes the scenes in the lyrics, continues to inspire many artists to cover it.
It became Kaguya-hime’s biggest hit.
Dramatic RainInagaki Junichi
Even though it only peaked at No.
8 on the Oricon chart at the time, it stayed on the charts for half a year as a long-running hit.
Because the second single sold so poorly, the record company asked Kyohei Tsutsumi to provide a song; the lyrics were won in a competition by Yasushi Akimoto—who now seems practically exclusive to the AKB group—and it became Akimoto’s first hit as well.
Compilation of classic Showa-era kayōkyoku hits: A comprehensive showcase of timeless songs loved across generations (131–140)
Hometown of TsugaruMisora Hibari
There are many famous songs by Hibari Misora, and among them, Ringo Oiwake—evoking Aomori’s apples—was a massive hit, ranking as her fifth best-selling single of all time.
Also set in Aomori Prefecture, this song was performed in 1951 (Showa 26).
Even after decades, it conveys the charm of one’s hometown with simple warmth and never feels dated, making it a masterpiece that, along with her vocal prowess, truly stands out.
Journey of the Heartchūrippu
This is Tulip’s third single, released in 1973.
It has been covered by a variety of artists, including Eisaku Yoshida and Masaharu Fukuyama, and continues to be covered today.
Even as time passes, the music and lyrics slip effortlessly into the heart—truly a timeless classic.
Roppongi LullabyNaitō Yasuko
This song opens with a moody, grown-up vibe, and it’s truly pleasing how Yasuko Naito—known for her tough, soulful vocals—begins with a gentle, unhurried delivery.
While maintaining exceptional stability throughout, she finally lets loose that much-anticipated powerhouse voice at the end, making it a deeply nuanced track.