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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Summary of classic Showa-era kayōkyoku hits: a comprehensive showcase of timeless songs loved across generations (11–20)
17 years oldMinami Saori
A song depicting the sparkle of youth and the stirrings of first love became Saori Minami’s debut single, released in 1971.
Her clear, translucent vocals blend beautifully with the fresh melody crafted by Kyohei Tsutsumi, propelling the track to a major hit that ranked high on the Oricon charts.
It garnered numerous awards, including the New Artist Award at the 13th Japan Record Awards.
The lyrics, exquisitely expressing the delicate emotions of a 17-year-old girl, resonated with many and have continued to be cherished across generations.
This work sings of a yearning to affirm love by the sea and a powerful longing for the object of one’s affection, evoking a vivid snapshot of youth in the listener’s heart.
Cape ErimoMori Shinichi
A signature song by Shinichi Mori that recorded total sales of about one million.
It won the Japan Record Award and the Japan Kayō Award in 1974.
The music was composed by Takuro Yoshida, with lyrics by Osami Okamoto, and it has been covered by many enka singers, including Teresa Teng.
Tsugaru Strait Winter SceneIshikawa Sayuri
As one of the most iconic songs of the Showa era, it continues to be loved by many to this day.
Sayuri Ishikawa’s vocals brilliantly capture the emotions of those crossing the Tsugaru Strait.
Released in April 1977, it created a huge buzz, including being performed at that year’s NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen.
The lyrics weave in images of the snowy scenery at Aomori Station and people quietly returning north, vividly conveying what travel on the Seikan Ferry was like at the time.
It’s a song I especially recommend to those living away from their hometowns or those who love to travel.
If you listen to it during the bone-chilling winter season, it will resonate with you even more.
Imperial Regent Declarationsadamasashi
This is a classic song that humorously captures a man’s true feelings on the eve of marriage.
When it was released in July 1979, it sparked debate over gender roles, yet also won support from listeners who didn’t usually buy pop songs, becoming a major talking point.
It reached as high as No.
2 on TBS’s “The Best Ten.” At concerts, it’s customary for the audience to sing along to the ending section.
The charm lies in how, beneath the clumsy words, you can sense his single-minded desire to protect his family and his deep affection.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants to convey feelings that are usually too embarrassing to say out loud—through this song.
From the northern innMiyako Harumi
A song that presses on the heart with the poignant feelings woven into a sweater.
Harumi Miyako’s powerful vocals leave a strong impression.
Released in 1975, the single sold over 1.4 million copies and ranked third on Oricon’s annual singles chart in 1976.
That same year, Miyako won the 18th Japan Record Award with this song.
The lyrics, depicting the cold and loneliness of the northern country, are sure to resonate with anyone nursing a broken heart.
It’s best listened to on a winter night while gazing out the window.
Do whatever the hell you want.sawada kenji
This is a song that continues to be loved as a quintessential Showa-era pop classic.
Its striking chorus sticks in your ears and resonates with your heart every time you listen.
It portrays the complex emotions of a heartbroken man with a chic, mature melancholy, showcasing Kenji Sawada’s charm to the fullest.
Released in May 1977, it spent five consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Oricon weekly chart and ranked fourth on the year-end chart.
It became a massive hit, selling 890,000 copies.
It’s a must-listen not only for those nursing a broken heart, but also for younger listeners who admire adult romance.
Why not let yourself be intoxicated by Kenji Sawada’s captivating vocals?
Compilation of Showa-era Kayōkyoku masterpieces: A comprehensive showcase of timeless songs loved across generations (21–30)
TOKIOsawada kenji
One of Kenji Sawada’s signature songs with a devoted fanbase.
It carries an urban vibe that makes Tokyo’s cityscape spring to mind just by listening.
Featured on the 1979 album “TOKIO,” this track has become so popular that many artists have covered it.
It was also used as the commercial song for the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation’s Toei Oedo Line full-line opening.
Sawada’s distinctive vocals pair perfectly with the sound that captures the bustle of the city.
It’s a song not only for those living in the metropolis but also one that people in the countryside should hear.