A collection of masterpieces! A roundup of enka love songs
Within enka, there are works spanning a variety of genres and vivid scene depictions, but many people probably feel that “enka means love songs.”
So this time, we’re introducing enka love songs!
We’ll cover a wide range—from songs that sing as if narrating a heartrending tragic romance, to ones where love wells up endlessly.
We’ve focused on hit songs, so it’s perfect for choosing tracks for karaoke, too.
Be sure to check it out to the end!
A Collection of Masterpieces! Enka Love Songs (1–10)
Love in Kyoto is a passing showerNEW!Seiji Takamiyagi
Seiji Takamiyagi, an enka singer from Kumamoto with the unique background of debuting at age 69, released his sixth single in October 2025—a nostalgic kayōkyoku set against the scenery of Sagano and Arashiyama in Kyoto.
The song depicts a fleeting romance amid the ancient capital’s landscape glistening in a passing shower.
Its gentle melody pairs exquisitely with Takamiyagi’s warm vocals, making for a beautifully crafted track.
If you’re in the mood for travel-inspired sentiment, be sure to give it a listen.
The Camellia Sasanqua InnEisaku Okawa
Eisaku Okawa’s signature song “Sazanka no Yado,” released in 1982, has remained a timeless classic beloved by many.
The song centers on the theme of an affair, and the complex, profound emotions embedded in the lyrics pierce the listener’s heart.
The opening image of wiping a fogged-up window symbolizes the uncertainty of the future and a poignant sense of sorrow, drawing you into the story’s world.
It’s an enka ballad that seeps into the soul—one you’ll want to savor alone on a quiet, long night.
Last Train to the NorthAlan
Alan, known for his strikingly deep, rich voice.
Hailing from Hokkaido and having studied under composer Akihiro Otani, he is a seasoned talent who won numerous song contests even before his debut.
His memorable debut single, “Kitaguni Saishūbin” (The Last Flight North), was released in September 2025.
Set in an airport, the song expresses an unshakable longing for a departing lover.
The poignant scene of entrusting love to the last flight disappearing into the night sky is portrayed with a melody that blends sprightliness and wistful melancholy.
A street corner in loveKeisuke Yamauchi
The prince of the enka world, Keisuke Yamauchi, released his single “Koisuru Machikado” on October 1, 2008.
This song richly portrays love stories unfolding across various regions of Japan.
By depicting the moments people fall in love against the backdrop of local scenery and everyday life, it invites listeners’ empathy.
A defining feature of the track is that, while it follows the traditional enka style, it also weaves in contemporary views on romance.
That blend makes it feel familiar and conveys the diversity of love.
Ephemeral FlowerSayoko Mizuki
Though they know it’s a forbidden love, they can’t stop the feelings that keep growing.
Utakata no Hana, sung by enka vocalist Sayoko Mizuki—whose expressive power honed through Japanese dance is striking—gives voice to that aching, bittersweet longing.
It’s a ballad of deep emotion that portrays the perilous feelings of a married career woman who finds herself drawn to a younger man.
As she’s unsettled by his straightforward, youthful gaze, her heart sways beyond her control, and the protagonist’s inner conflict is conveyed with piercing clarity through Mizuki’s gently resonant voice.
If you’re struggling with the complications of adult love, this song might quietly stay by your side.
Tears and laughterChisato
Chisato is a singer with authentic vocal technique honed through classical training.
Since her re-debut in June 2010, she has captivated fans with her rich expressiveness.
This track commemorates the 15th anniversary of her singing career.
With lyrics by Toyohisa Araki and music by Tetsuya Gen, the song adopts a relaxed “spoken-song” style, weaving a portrayal of the complex emotions felt toward a loved one.
It’s a gem that blends an urbane mood with a deeply human mix of affection and frustration.
Be sure to check it out.
Koisame (Love Rain)Ishihara Junko
Junko Ishihara, who captivates listeners with the assured expressiveness honed through shigin recitation, saw her 1999 release Miren-zake sell over 400,000 copies.
Now, her 48th single has been released in September 2025.
This work portrays a yearning love that deepens despite knowing it will never be rewarded, layered over a wintry scene where cold rain turns into snow.
The lyrics were written by Ishihara herself under the name Itō Fujiko, and the composition is by Kazuto Miura, the artist she has long professed to be a fan of.
Its lyrical melody, imbued with the aroma of folk kayō, gently nestles against the ache of the heart.