[2025] Thriving in the enka and kayōkyoku scene! A roundup of beautiful enka singers
Among female enka singers who, with exceptional vocal prowess, draw out the full charm of a song—sometimes seductively, sometimes sweetly—there are many who are also celebrated for their beauty and enjoy great popularity.
If you remember the late Showa to early Heisei era, you may know the term “endoru,” coined to describe enka singers who enjoyed idol-like popularity at the time.
In this article, we researched and introduce singers who are reputed to be beautiful enka performers.
Of course, standards of beauty vary from person to person, but we hope this is an opportunity to discover the appeal of various beautiful enka singers—from the legendary divas of the Showa era to the young talents born in the 2000s who are active today in the Reiwa era.
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[2025] Active in the Enka and Kayō World! A Roundup of Beautiful Enka Singers (1–10)
abandonedYoko Nagayama
Yoko Nagayama is known as a charismatic figure in the enka world.
She made her debut in 1984 with “Haru wa SA·RA SA·RA,” gaining popularity as an idol singer.
Later, in 1993, she relaunched her career as an enka singer and went on to produce a string of hits such as “Higurashi” and “Suterarete.” Her talent has been highly recognized in many circles, including winning the top prize at the Japan Cable Awards in 1995.
Though an enka singer, she also captivates with the glamorous charm honed during her idol days and her versatile skills, including mastery of the Tsugaru shamisen.
Blessed with beauty and exceptional vocal ability, Nagayama’s singing is recommended not only for enka fans but for music lovers of all ages.
hay feverYukino Ichikawa
Yukino Ichikawa, known as a beautiful singer in the enka world, made her debut in 1993 and showcased her vocal prowess with “Onna no Matsuri.” After returning with “Kaikyō Deshutsu” in 2006, she achieved remarkable success, including 11 consecutive No.
1 entries on the Oricon rankings.
She performed at the Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 2016 and 2017; in 2016, her heartfelt performance dedicated to her late brother deeply moved many.
Standing 170.
5 cm tall with refined features, she is admired not only by enka fans but also by a wide audience.
With her emotionally rich voice and superb expressiveness, Ichikawa delivers enka that resonates with the heart—be sure to experience her charm.
Crossing Amagi PassSayuri Ishikawa
Born in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture in 1958, Sayuri Ishikawa made her debut as an enka singer at the age of 15 and remains an active force even in the Reiwa era.
Her signature song Amagi-goe, with its deep emotion and heartrending lyrics, has captured the hearts of many.
Released in 1986, the song was performed on the Kouhaku Uta Gassen and left a significant mark on that year’s music scene.
Enka as performed by Ishikawa—showcasing her outstanding vocal ability and expressive power—has earned numerous awards, including the Japan Record Awards and the Japan Singers Association Grand Prize.
She has also been active across television programs, films, and concert tours, while valuing close connections with her fans.
She is a must-listen not only for enka enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in traditional Japanese music.
[2025] Active in the enka and kayō world! A roundup of beautiful enka singers (11–20)
Boat SongAki Yashiro
Aki Yashiro, known as the “Queen of Enka,” debuted in 1971 and quickly rose to the top with a string of hits such as “Namida Koi” and “Shinobi Koi.” In 1980, she won the Japan Record Award for “Ame no Bojo,” and she captivated many with her vocal prowess and beauty, including serving as the final performer on NHK’s Kohaku Uta Gassen for two consecutive years.
She ventured beyond enka into jazz and blues as well, earning international recognition, such as performing live at a jazz club in New York.
Yashiro’s rich, sultry voice and expressive singing are recommended not only for enka fans but also for anyone who enjoys a wide range of musical genres.
Still in YokohamaMiyuki Kadomatsu
Miyuki Kadomatsu is a singer who combines remarkable vocal ability with outstanding beauty.
Born in 1993 in Odawara, Kanagawa Prefecture, she made her major debut in February 2019 with the single “Michinoku Bōkyōka.” With a powerful yet emotionally rich voice, she has released a string of hits such as “Hamakiyu Shigure” and “Hana no Inochi.” In 2021, she won THE Karaoke★Battle, and the following year received the Encouragement Prize at the Japan Composers’ Association Music Festival 2022, earning high acclaim within the music industry.
While cherishing the elements of traditional enka, her songs incorporate modern arrangements, offering a fresh appeal not only to enka fans but also to younger listeners.
She is also notably multi-talented, excelling at playing the Tsugaru shamisen and the trombone.
River of TimeNatsuko Godai
Natsuko Godai made a dazzling debut as an enka singer in 1987.
With her captivating appearance and richly expressive vocals, she quickly drew attention and released a string of hits such as “Modorigawa” and “Shinobu Ame.” Godai’s appeal lies in a voice that conveys strength even within a melancholic musical style.
In 1988, she achieved the remarkable feat of winning Best New Artist at both the Japan Cable Awards and the All-Japan Cable Broadcasting Awards.
Beyond her work as an enka singer, Godai is also dedicated to international exchange and welfare activities.
Her multifaceted talent and passionate commitment continue to move not only enka fans but audiences across generations.
I'm falling in love with you againFuyumi Sakamoto
Fuyumi Sakamoto is a diva who represents the enka world, known for her mysterious beauty and overwhelming vocal prowess.
She made her debut in March 1987 with Abare Daiko, winning numerous newcomer awards that same year.
The following year, she made her first appearance on the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, and since then she has performed there 35 times.
While rooted in enka, her versatile musicality—venturing into J-pop and other genres—continues to captivate fans across generations.
In 2007, her cover song for Sanwa Shurui’s barley shochu iichiko commercial became a major hit.
In 2011, she won the JASRAC Awards Bronze Prize, among other accolades, demonstrating the high esteem in which she is held across the industry.
She is a recommended artist not only for enka enthusiasts but also for anyone looking to experience music that transcends genre boundaries.