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 to everything from nostalgic Japanese hits to timeless favorites (41–50)
white parasolMatsuda Seiko
This is one of Seiko Matsuda’s signature songs, where a translucent singing voice and refreshing summer scenery resonate in the heart.
You can almost picture a girl walking along the seaside under a blue sky, holding a white parasol.
It delicately captures the fluttering emotions and uncertainty of being in love, conveying both the poignancy and sweetness of a summer romance.
Released in July 1981, the song debuted at No.
1 on TBS’s “The Best Ten,” the first time in the show’s history.
It’s a perfect track for reminiscing about summer memories or when you want to feel refreshed.
Songs of Summer from the Showa Era | A comprehensive showcase from nostalgic Japanese hits to enduring favorites (51–60)
Give Up on SummerNaoko Ken
A classic song that paints a poignant scene at summer’s end.
Naoko Ken’s uniquely languid, wistful vocals beautifully capture the fleeting nature of youth.
Released in September 1982, the track reached No.
5 on the weekly Oricon chart and won the Gold Prize at the 24th Japan Record Awards, winning the hearts of many.
Closely associated with the Shonan/Enoshima image, it’s perfect for when you want to look back on summer memories—walking along a rain-soaked beach, reminiscing about a love from those days.
An ideal song for anyone who wants to sink into that mood.
A Midsummer Night’s DreamNoguchi Goro
Goro Noguchi’s 30th single, released in 1978, is “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Known for his guitar skills, Noguchi would sing this song while playing electric guitar during TV appearances and concerts.
It reached No.
8 on Showa-era flagship music program “The Best Ten.” It also drew attention when impressionist Korokke performed a fast-forward version of the song as part of his act.
The mature, sexy lyrics themed around a midsummer night are another major attraction.
Waltz of StarlightSen Masao
A summer love song said to reflect its historical background is “Hoshikage no Waltz.” This piece was released by enka singer Masao Sen.
Set to a gentle, subdued sound, it gives voice to the sorrow of a man and woman who don’t want to part but must.
Another hallmark is its focus on the moments just before and after the separation, delving deeply into their emotional states.
That makes it easy to empathize with.
In fact, two versions were released in the 1960s, so try finding the one that holds the most memories for you.
Ah, summer vacation.TUBE
It’s a song that truly conveys the exhilaration of summer and can be considered one of TUBE’s signature tracks.
The bright, clear sound that evokes a summer blue sky and the vocals that carry a sense of smiling joy create a lively summer atmosphere.
The lyrics throughout depict the thrill of being swept up in the season, leaving an impression that heightens anticipation for summer.
It’s a track that seems to tell you to surrender to the heat, charge headlong into summer with all your energy, and that good times are waiting.
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.