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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Summer Songs of the Showa Era | A comprehensive introduction from nostalgic Japanese hits to timeless favorites (31–40)
RIDE ON TIMEYamashita Tatsuro
This song features a poppy, upbeat melody that evokes the refreshing breeze of summer.
Tatsuro Yamashita’s clear, crystalline vocals conjure images of blue skies and the sea.
Released as a single from the September 1980 album “RIDE ON TIME,” it became his first Top 10 hit on the Oricon charts.
It also drew attention as the tie-in song for a Maxell cassette tape TV commercial.
With an uplifting message that lights a spark in the heart and sets the spirit soaring, it’s sure to gently encourage anyone taking a new step forward.
Why not enjoy it as driving music while reminiscing about your summer memories?
Shinin’ On-kun is sad.rukku
LOOK is a rock band that was active from 1985 to 1988.
Their career lasted only three years, but they left behind classic songs that represent the 1980s.
One of them is “Shinin’ On Kimi ga Kanashii.” The song portrays a man walking along a beach at night, reminiscing about memories with the one he loves.
Rather than a typical summer song, it’s more about recalling summer, so it’s a good listen during the change of seasons.
Let it stir your thoughts about those wonderful days.
The Little MermaidNagayama Miho
A heartrending love story set on a summer beach.
Miho Nakayama’s translucent vocals vividly portray the image of a mermaid shimmering in the cold sea of the big city.
Released in July 1988 and used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Wakaokusama wa Udemakuri!”, the track topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and ranked high on the year-end chart.
Its pop, melodious composition reflects the trends of the time while showcasing a unique sensibility.
Highly recommended for those with hearts swayed by love or anyone wishing to bask in summer memories.
South Wind – SOUTH WIND –Ōta Hiromi
If you want to savor an open, summery vibe, Hiromi Ohta’s “Minamikaze – SOUTH WIND -” is perfect.
Released in 1980 as her 17th single, it was used in a commercial for Kirin Beer’s “Kirin Orange” at the time.
Its refreshing sound, fitting for a soft drink commercial, puts you in a pleasant mood.
The lyrics, told from the perspective of young people who can’t wait for summer, feel charmingly fresh.
Definitely give “Minamikaze – SOUTH WIND -” a listen and soak up the summer atmosphere!
BoyhoodInoue Yosui
One of the quintessential summer hits of the Showa era is “Shonen Jidai,” released by Yosui Inoue in September 1990.
Its lyrics are beautiful and the melody is easy to sing, so it’s even included in junior high and high school music textbooks.
Another charm of this song is how the season changes as the verses progress.
It begins just after summer has passed, moves to the height of summer in the second verse, and returns again to the time after summer in the final section.
If you get the chance, listen with that in mind.
