Showa-era masterpieces roundup: A must-listen collection of nostalgic oldies and hit songs
In the Showa era, countless masterpieces were created across genres, from pop kayokyoku to enka.
Many of them are still loved today, and we have plenty of chances to hear them.
In recent years, it’s not uncommon for Showa-era songs to experience a revival hit, and I think many younger listeners are also interested in these classics.
In this article, we’d like to reintroduce a generous selection of Showa masterpieces.
We’ve gathered many songs from various genres, so please take your time and give them a careful listen.
- Showa-era nostalgic songs: Popular ranking
- [For Seniors] Popular Kayōkyoku: A Collection of Classic Songs Perfect for Karaoke and Background Music Selection
- A roundup of classic Showa-era kayō songs: a comprehensive introduction to timeless tracks loved across generations.
- Heart-touching, tear-jerking masterpieces from the Showa era
- Just listening to it purifies the heart... A healing song born in the Showa era.
- [Revisited] A roundup of popular and classic Showa-era songs that are trending now [2026]
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
- [Songs from the Showa Era] Introducing classic tracks that are easy to sing at karaoke.
- A collection of iconic, cool Showa-era kayōkyoku classics sung by male vocalists
- Ranking of Popular Nostalgic Songs and Classics [2026]
- Thrilling to Cool Showa-Era Tunes! Classic Songs from Female Singers and Artists of the Showa Period
- [Classic Showa Kayō Hits] The captivating Showa-era pop songs beloved even by younger generations
- [Nostalgic Hits] Smash Hits with the Showa Generation! Classic and Popular Songs Sung by Female Vocalists
Showa Era Masterpieces Collection: Must-Listen Nostalgic Tunes & Hit Songs (111–120)
Isezakicho BluesAoe Mina
There was a time when the sighs that appear several times during the prelude were deemed unsuitable for children’s education, so they were replaced on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
This song, which builds the Mina Aoe world with her distinctive husky voice, has often been used in a parodic way and featured in commercials.
However, it might be a bit difficult to sing at karaoke.
Kanda RiverMinami Kōsetsu & Kaguyahime
Released in 1973 (Showa 48).
It’s no exaggeration to say this is a signature folk song that took the nation by storm as a “four-and-a-half tatami mat” song.
The lyrics portray everyday life, using the then-trendy concept of cohabitation: though poor, the time the two spent together was an irreplaceable treasure.
However, because the song became overwhelmingly popular, Kōsetsu Minami reportedly grew to dislike the idea that this song defined him, and it took time before he reached a new understanding and began singing again.
Premonition of Spring – I’ve been mellowMinami Saori
A refreshing song that evokes the gentle warmth of spring.
Saori Minami’s crystal-clear voice resonates deeply.
Released in January 1978, this piece was also used for Shiseido’s spring campaign.
Written and composed by Ami Ozaki, the recording reportedly proceeded with strict direction to avoid turning it into Minami’s signature “Saori-bushi” style.
The lyrics delicately portray the sense of a new season arriving with spring and the accompanying stirrings of the heart—leaving a strong impression.
In 2008, it was also used as a subtitle for the NHK morning drama series Dandan.
It’s a song that gently gives a nudge to anyone taking a new step in spring.
A snap in yellow-green (moegi)anzenchitai
A masterpiece that vividly portrays the scenery of the Showa era.
Released in February 1982 as Anzen Chitai’s major-label debut single, it features Koji Tamaki’s clear, transparent vocals that seem to herald the arrival of spring.
Meltwater flowing, a song in motion, the sparkle of life, and the anticipation of new encounters—its beautiful imagery is truly captivating.
The song was also performed at Anzen Chitai’s 40th-anniversary concert, surely rekindling the spirit of their debut days.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to with someone special, wrapped in the warmth of spring.
Highly recommended for those looking forward to new encounters or embarking on a new chapter in life.
TouchIwasaki Yoshimi
This is one of Yoshimi Iwasaki’s signature songs, used as the opening theme for the anime adaptation of Mitsuru Adachi’s iconic manga Touch.
Since the story centers on baseball, the song is still performed today by brass bands as a high school baseball cheer, and it remains beloved by people of all ages.
Yanagase BluesMikawa Ken’ichi
It was Kenichi Mikawa’s third single, released in 1966.
This song marked a turning point as he shifted toward the enka/mood kayō style.
It became a hit that sold over 1.2 million copies, making the name Yanagase known nationwide and establishing Mikawa himself as a star singer.
It has become one of his signature songs.
lieNakaijō Kiyoshi
Released in 1974 (Showa 49).
The lyrics, written by author Yoko Yamaguchi, are, in my opinion, brilliant: from a uniquely female perspective, they see through a man’s lies and discern the shadow of another woman.
Until now—and I mean no disrespect—many mood kayō singers gained popularity more for their vocal ability, sweetness of tone, and resonance than for their looks.
But Kiyoshi Nakajo, with a slightly dandy image, has built a new and unprecedented world within mood kayō.