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 tracks to timeless hits still popular today (11–20)
I hope you are keeping well in the summer heat.kyandīzu
Many people likely have a special attachment to Candies’ “Shochū Omimai Moushiagemasu,” a classic Japanese summer song by the idol trio who were active in the 1970s.
The song was their 14th single, released in June 1977.
However, they announced their breakup in July of the same year, and Candies disbanded in April 1978.
As a celebrated song from just before their breakup, fans might still feel a tinge of sadness when they listen to it today.
The Door to SummerMatsuda Seiko
When it comes to Seiko Matsuda’s summer songs, you can’t leave out “Natsu no Tobira” (“The Summer Door”).
Released in 1981 as her fifth single, it topped the Oricon singles chart and was featured in various commercials for soft drinks, cosmetics, and more.
Its fresh, catchy sound is perfectly suited to an idol.
The memorable chorus is something even people who aren’t from the “Seiko-chan generation” have probably heard.
Around the time “Natsu no Tobira” came out, she also switched from the “Seiko-chan cut” to a short haircut, which tied in with the lyrics and became a hot topic.
Heart-throbbing for you. — A Fickle Vacation —Yellow Magic Orchestra
YMO, the pioneering technopop band in Japan.
As a group that represents the country, they have a wide fan base, and many were deeply saddened by the members’ passing.
Their cute summer song “Kimi ni, Mune Kyun” was released in 1983 as their seventh single.
It was a summer track that completely changed the usual YMO vibe and surprised the public.
Even people from generations unfamiliar with YMO have likely heard the chorus.
The song also became widely known at home as it was used in a Kanebo cosmetics commercial.
Harmony at Summer’s EndInoue Yosui & Anzen Chitai
Since its release in 1986, this song has continued to be cherished as a classic for the end of summer.
Speaking of Anzenchitai, it’s the band fronted by Koji Tamaki, and they’re also known for having performed as Yosui Inoue’s backing band before their debut.
It was within the exchange between these two acts that this song was born.
Both Yosui Inoue and Koji Tamaki have uniquely captivating voices, but the harmony created when their voices blend is truly one of a kind.
The poignant lyrics—woven with exquisite harmonies—overlay the end of summer with the parting of a man and a woman, deeply moving countless listeners.
A summer to rememberYamaguchi Momoe
Momoe Yamaguchi, known as a legendary singer of the Showa-era kayōkyoku scene, released Hitonatsu no Keiken in 1974.
The lyrics were written by Kazuya Senke, and the composition was by Shunichi Tokura, who created many idol songs in the Showa era.
The band arrangement, which evokes a passionate romance, is striking.
The song expresses a girl’s honest feelings for the one she loves, perfectly matching her powerful yet sultry vocals.
For some listeners, it may bring back memories of summer dates or a first love.
It’s a summer song that captures both girlish charm and the allure of a grown woman at the same time.
Beach of MemoriesZa Wairudowanzu
The debut song of The Wild Ones, a pioneering Group Sounds band, is “Omoide no Nagisa” (Beach of Memories).
The band was formed by leader Kunihiko Kase after his stints with groups like The Spiders and Takeshi Terauchi & Blue Jeans, aiming to create a new sound unlike anything before.
Kase’s signature 12-string guitar tone gives “Omoide no Nagisa” its ineffably resort-like atmosphere.
Lyricist Shigeki Torizuka was working gigs playing by a pool at the time of production, and he came up with the lyrics while watching that scene.
Songs of Summer from the Showa Era | A Comprehensive Introduction, from Nostalgic Japanese Hits to Ever-Popular Classics (21–30)
Suddenly, SinbadSazan Ōrusutāzu
This song, which evokes a refreshing summer breeze, is the debut single by Southern All Stars.
Released in June 1978, it brought a breath of fresh air to the Japanese music scene.
Set against the shores of Shonan, it portrays young love with a light, upbeat rhythm.
Keisuke Kuwata’s distinctive vocals and the innovative lyrics known as “Kuwata-go” captured the hearts of many listeners.
It’s a perfect track for those nostalgic for summer memories and their youth—great for livening up a karaoke session or for a seaside drive.