[2025] A Collection of Classic Enka and Kayōkyoku Duets by Women
When you hear the term “duet song,” most of you probably think of songs sung by a man and a woman.
In Japan in particular, duet songs are strongly associated with mood-rich numbers in the realms of Showa-era kayōkyoku and enka, themed around romantic relationships between men and women.
So this time, I’ve deliberately limited the scope to enka and kayōkyoku and compiled a list of duets performed by two women.
What I discovered through my research is that there are very few songs that fit this category.
That rarity gives them special value, so please also take a look at what themes the lyrics of enka and kayōkyoku duets sung by two women tend to explore.
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[2025] A Collection of Classic Enka and Kayōkyoku Duets by Two Women (1–10)
Nihongo OndoAki Yashiro · Momoe
A heartwarming classic by a female duo where nostalgia and novelty blend together.
AkI Yashiro’s powerful vocals and Momoe’s charming interjections are woven into an exquisite balance, brimming with the charm of a summertime tradition.
It was first broadcast in July 2017 on NHK E-tele’s children’s program “Shakiin!” and released as a single in November of the same year.
Incorporating the rhythms of bon odori—an icon of Japanese summer—the song features lyrics that highlight the beauty of the Japanese language.
It’s a perfect track for summer events, enjoyable for listeners of all ages, from children to adults.
Sisters of the SeagullHiroko Matsumae / Hitomi Nakamura
The duet by Hiroko Matsumae and Hitomi Nakamura, both born in Hokkaido, is igniting the hearts of enka fans.
Released in April 2020, this work is a powerful anthem that portrays two women overcoming harsh circumstances to forge new lives.
As the lyric “We crossed the snowy strait” suggests, you can feel the bond between the two who have weathered hardships together.
The perfectly synchronized vocals of Matsumae and Nakamura, who share a mentor–disciple relationship, are another highlight.
It’s a song that gives you the courage to ride out life’s waves, so why not give it a listen when you need encouragement or want to do your best?
Duo female friendsSaori Nonaka · Ayumi Koga
A song that delicately portrays women’s friendships and subtle emotional nuances has been released by Saori Nonaka and Ayumi Koga.
Featuring lyrics that vividly express women’s feelings and beautifully blended harmonies by the two singers, the track was included as the B-side to Nonaka’s single “Hidamari-zaka” in February 2021.
Their collaboration—sparked when Koga won the grand prize in a purchaser application event for the previous release “Natsuyukisou”—drew attention as a fresh pairing.
While honoring classic enka style, the gentle melody line highlights their perfectly synchronized vocals.
Centered on the theme of bonds between women, the song is also popular for karaoke, and its relatable lyrics make it especially recommended for female friends to sing together.
[2025] A Collection of Classic Enka and Kayōkyoku Duets by Two Women (11–20)
Let life shineKomadori - Toshiko & Midori
This is a hymn to life performed by the duo of Toshiko Osanai—the younger of the Komadori Sisters who brightened the Showa-era pop scene—and Midori Ishioka.
It’s a remake by Toshiko Osanai herself of the Komadori Sisters’ classic released in 1981, revisited more than 40 years later.
The lyrics, which portray someone carrying their late father’s words in their heart and striving to live strongly through sorrow, are deeply moving.
If you listen to it when you’re at a crossroads and feel close to breaking, it may give you a warm sense of courage.
In conclusion
As mentioned at the outset, in the realm of enka and kayōkyoku, duets between women are far rarer than those between men, so each one could be said to have a special value.
I’m sure many people were surprised to learn that these two actually formed a duet.
Of course, if you keep looking you may find more examples, so if you’re interested, by all means dig deeper!