Songs of Summer from the Showa Era: A comprehensive introduction, from nostalgic Japanese hits to timeless favorites still popular today
Summer is packed with fun events like seaside drives, camping, and all-you-can-eat buffets.
And to make summer even more exciting, the right BGM is essential, isn’t it? If you’re struggling with your summer playlist, why not try some classic Japanese hits from the Showa era? In this article, we introduce a variety of “summer songs” mainly from the 1960s to the 1980s—ranging from Showa pop and Group Sounds to New Music, city pop, idol tunes, and rock bands.
For some, it’ll be a nostalgic trip; for younger listeners, a fresh discovery.
Enjoy!
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Songs of Summer from the Showa Era | A comprehensive showcase from nostalgic Japanese hits to enduring favorites (51–60)
17 years oldMinami Saori
This song is the debut single of Saori Minami, released in 1971.
As the title suggests, she was 17 at the time, and many listeners were likely captivated by her fresh, youthful voice.
The lyrics depict a couple spending time by the seaside, and as you read them, you can almost see the bright summer sky and the beautiful sandy beach unfold before your eyes.
On the other hand, the composer was Kyohei Tsutsumi.
Its light rhythm and ear-pleasing melodic line convey the approachable charm that epitomizes Showa-era pop.
The High-Class Mermaid of the ShoreKoizumi Kyoko
This song was released by Kyoko Koizumi in 1984.
As the title “Nagisa no Haikara Ningyo” suggests, the lyrics portray a popular woman who seems to attract advances from many men.
The song describes her going to the seaside alone with a certain man, conveying the fluttering excitement between the two.
The track itself is up-tempo and cheerful, perfectly matching Koizumi’s fresh and cute vocals.
The aggressive sax solo that appears in the middle is a must-hear and really brings out a summery vibe.
Blue Coral ReefMatsuda Seiko
Blue Lagoon is one of Seiko Matsuda’s signature songs, released in July 1980 as her second single.
With a fresh, summery vibe, it was also used in a commercial for Glico’s “Yolel” ice cream.
Even today, it’s often featured on TV as a classic of the Showa era.
It’s familiar not only to those who heard it in real time but also to many younger listeners, and its enduring popularity across generations speaks to just how polished and well-crafted the song is.
Two People’s Love IslandIshikawa Yuko & Chage
The duet song by Chage from Chage & Aska and singer-songwriter Yuko Ishikawa is “Futari no Ai Land.” Many people have probably heard its catchy chorus.
Released as a single in 1984, it was used in a JAL commercial and reached No.
3 on the Oricon singles chart.
The lyrics, written with Okinawa in mind, are sprinkled with words that evoke summer.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while basking in the hot sunshine!
summer vacationyoshida takurou
Takuro Yoshida, known as a pioneer who brought folk rock to the Japanese music scene.
In 1971, he released “Natsuyasumi” (“Summer Vacation”).
The song depicts his childhood summer memories, conjuring up images of rich natural scenery and the sounds of insects.
Its band sound carries a subtly nostalgic atmosphere that’s full of charm.
From Yoshida’s conversational singing style, you can sense a poignant emotion as well.
Lend an ear to this folk song that gently lets summer memories unfold.
