A hugely popular star who colored the Showa era, known by everyone.
When you think of the Showa era, who comes to mind? Who is the star that represents Showa for you?
During the Showa period, there were countless “stars” across many fields—actors, singers, rakugo performers—people everyone knew and admired.
In this article, we’ll introduce some of the iconic stars who defined the Showa era.
We’ve gathered a variety of luminaries: those who appeared in numerous films and TV dramas, multi-talented figures who thrived as both actors and singers, and artists who gave us countless beloved classic songs.
Be sure to check out these stars who shone with a brilliance unlike anyone else!
- List of popular Showa-era actresses that bring back memories: introducing iconic stars who evoke nostalgia
- A compilation of beautiful actresses and singers from the Showa era: the beauties who captivated countless fans.
- Recommended love songs for people in their 80s: A collection of classic love songs that colored the Showa era
- [Karaoke] Recommended Songs for Men in Their 80s: A Collection of Showa-Era Classics You’ll Want to Belt Out
- A directory of popular women’s pro wrestlers from the Showa era: the star players who energized the times.
- Songs that get men in their 90s excited: A roundup of classic karaoke recommendations
- [For Seniors] Winter songs you'll want to hum along to. A collection of classic tunes recommended for BGM and recreational activities
- For seniors: Recommended youthful songs for people in their 90s. A collection of classic Showa-era hits.
- A must-see for the Showa generation! Nostalgic popular snacks from the old days
- Karaoke songs you’ll want to sing for men in their 70s: Enka and nostalgic Showa-era pop
- The Complete Guide to Showa-Era Toys: From Showa retro to toys still loved today
- Who is your favorite idol? Popular idols from the Showa era.
- Easy-to-sing songs recommended for men in their 80s: Showa-era classics to perform at karaoke
Beloved superstars who colored the Showa era that everyone knows (11–20)
Kiyoshi Atsumi

Speaking of Kiyoshi Atsumi, many people probably know him from the film series “It’s Tough Being a Man.” He was a Showa-era actor who gained nationwide popularity as “Tora-san.” After paying his dues in Asakusa, he shot to fame on the variety show “Yume de Aimashou.” He is also known for having been posthumously awarded the People’s Honor Award by the Japanese government in connection with the “It’s Tough Being a Man” films.
He’s such a nationally beloved actor that I’d say not only the Showa generation but even younger people all know who Kiyoshi Atsumi is.
In conclusion
We’ve introduced some stars who represent the Showa era—how did you like it? They’re all legendary actors and singers who are still talked about today, and even those who didn’t watch or listen to their works in real time have probably seen or heard of them at some point.
While there are plenty of stars in the Heisei and Reiwa eras as well, we encourage you to take another look and listen to the works of Showa-era stars!


