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 Introduction, from Nostalgic Japanese Hits to Ever-Popular Classics (21–30)
Women Who Fall in Love in SummerOhnuki Taeko
Taeko Onuki’s “Women in Love in Summer” evokes the image of a summer night in the city.
Released in 1983 as her 10th single, it was used as the theme song for the TBS drama of the same name.
It’s also a signature track from her acclaimed album SIGNIFIE.
Arranged by Ryuichi Sakamoto, the song features a romantic sound crafted with extensive use of synthesizers.
The lyrics, which conjure images of romance between adult men and women living in the city, are also quite striking.
Summer Dayofukōsu
This is a classic song that poignantly sings of a summer romance.
Released in July 1984 by Off Course, this ballad depicts a faint first love and the fleeting beauty of summer.
Kazumasa Oda’s clear, pure vocals resonate deeply with the heart.
Included in the Complete Singles Collection CD box set, it has remained beloved by fans.
With lyrics themed around summer memories and the fragility of love, it’s sure to strike a chord with many listeners.
When you feel like looking back on summers past, give it a listen—it will surely become a song that stays with you.
Be my bride.Kayama Yūzō
It’s one of the signature songs of Yuzo Kayama, who is affectionately known by the nickname Wakadaisho.
Its success even led to the production of a kayō film based on the song.
The piece was composed under the name Hachiro “Dan Atsusaku,” Kayama’s pen name for composing.
It is sometimes performed in a ukulele-and-vocal style, showcasing Kayama’s talent as a ukulele player.
The light, tropical ukulele timbre and the guitar’s floating tones—like drifting on waves—leave a striking impression.
Set to a refreshing sound, the song portrays passionate love, evoking a sense of rising emotion.
Equator Girl: Dokki!Yamashita Kumiko
Kumiko Yamashita is known for songs that incorporate New Music and City Pop.
Her hit “Equator Girl Doki!” was released in 1982, with lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and music by Haruomi Hosono.
It’s memorable for her delivering cute phrases over soft, airy synth tones.
The song portrays a youthful love that makes your heart flutter just by being near someone you like.
It conjures images of lovers swept up in a passionate romance under the blazing sun.
Summer MissSakakibara Ikue
This is Ikue Sakakibara’s biggest hit, beloved alongside Yukiko Shimizu and Mizue Takada as part of the “Fresh Trio.” Its light, fast-paced sound is striking, vividly conveying the rising excitement as summer approaches.
Though it’s an idol song with a cute image, it’s unique in that the lyrics are written from a male perspective.
While weaving in words that evoke summer, it praises the young lady and straightforwardly sings of being in love.