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)
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.
SUMMER DREAMTUBE
TUBE is a Japanese rock band known for summer classics like “A Natsu Yasumi” and “Season in the Sun.” One of their essential summer songs is “SUMMER DREAM.” The crisp acoustic guitar and percussion blend with vocalist Nobutoki Maeda’s soaring voice to create a shimmering track that perfectly suits the season.
There’s also a saxophone solo in the interlude, which heightens the summertime vibe—another highlight to listen for.
If you haven’t paid much attention to the solo before, I recommend revisiting the song and focusing on that section at least once!
Songs of Summer from the Showa Era | A comprehensive showcase from nostalgic Japanese hits to timeless favorites still popular today (61–70)
TouchIwasaki Yoshimi
This is a song released in 1985, known as the theme song for the anime Touch.
It was also included on the album Touch, and gained popularity alongside other anime-related tracks.
The lyrics, which sing of the bittersweet feelings of youthful love and the importance of human connection, resonate with many listeners.
Combined with Yoshimi Iwasaki’s clear, pure vocals, it’s a track that makes hearts flutter.
It’s recommended not only for anime fans but also for anyone who wants to recall the innocence of first love.
Nancy of Summer ColorsHayami Yū
A refreshing song that evokes the blue sea and the shining sun.
Yū Hayami’s clear, translucent vocals match perfectly with the lyrics that portray a summer romance.
Released in April 1983, the track was also used in a Coca-Cola commercial and became a memorable classic for many people.
The lyrics, which capture the emotional fluctuations of a girl in love and hint at her transformation into a grown woman, express the bittersweetness of summer love that anyone can relate to.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to by the seaside or poolside—perfect for reminiscing about summer memories or when you’re excited by the promise of a new romance.
Dance, fish.Yamashita Tatsuro
Singer-songwriter Tatsuro Yamashita, renowned as a meticulous craftsman of sound, has continually evolved his music in step with the times.
His 16th single, “Odoroyo, Fish,” drew attention when its remastered version was released on CD for the first time in 2020, 33 years after the original release.
The lyrics conjure images of sun and sea, and the urban atmosphere evokes the comfortable charm of classic city pop.
It’s a refreshing pop tune that brings to mind a clear, beautiful seascape.
