[October 2025] Latest Enka and Kayōkyoku roundup. Check out the buzzworthy new songs!
If you’ve found your way here, that probably means you love enka and kayōkyoku! Often called the “heart of Japan,” enka and kayōkyoku are full of timeless songs that resonate with everyone.
Maybe you head out to concerts with friends to see your favorite singers, or you hone your skills at karaoke aiming to become a great singer—everyone has their own way to enjoy them.
In this article, we’ve put together the latest, newly released enka and kayōkyoku tracks! Get a jump on the hits that are sure to come next!
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Enka New Song Releases (81–90)
Shiawase ShigureYuji Sanri
A heartwarming number that sings about envisioning and cherishing a life walked together with someone dear.
It’s a song by Yuji Misato, an enka singer from Saitama Prefecture, released as a single in July 2025.
The bright melody pairs beautifully with Misato’s gentle vocals.
The lyrics portray a path of love: though the couple once parted, they join hands again and stride toward the same dream.
It’s the kind of song that makes you reflect on your own life as you listen.
Please take your time with it and savor the experience!
Tokachi Autumn and WinterHiroshi Oe
It’s a song that vividly evokes the sweeping scenery of Hokkaido’s Tokachi Plain as autumn turns to winter.
Released in July 2025, this track is the second installment in the Hokkaido series following “Hokkai Nagare Uta” from November 2024.
It’s a heartwarming piece that carefully portrays family bonds nurtured in harsh nature and a deep sense of gratitude toward one’s parents.
Hiroshi Oe’s warm yet powerful vocals add depth to the storytelling, truly moving listeners.
For those striving far from their hometown, it’s sure to stir feelings for their family.
On the day of farewellJoji Yamamoto
A love song by Joji Yamamoto that resonates deep in the heart.
Released in July 2025 as the second single commemorating his 50th anniversary, this work is a cover of a renowned song by Masato Sugimoto.
It is said to be the first time in 43 years that Yamamoto has sung a Sugimoto piece.
It portrays the deep, gentle love of a man who feels gratitude toward the partner who has walked a long road by his side, while contemplating the day when they must inevitably part.
Within its restrained words, you can sense emotions too profound to be fully expressed.
When you want to reaffirm the bond with someone precious, the sincerity of this song’s vocals is sure to be a comforting presence.
Enyakkora BoogieNaoki Sanada
This is an irresistibly cheerful cheer-up song that sends support to today’s “working warriors” who fight through each day.
Lyricist Michiru Yuasa wrote this piece to capture the “cuteness behind the cool” that Naoki Sanada exudes.
It’s included on the Enyakora Edition of the single “Nina,” released in July 2025.
The lively, rock ’n’ roll-style sound and the catchy call-and-response chants stick with you after just one listen.
When you want to laugh off the fatigue of work, give it a spin—you’ll feel energized for tomorrow.
Making MemoriesAyako Fuji
Prompted by her producer’s suggestion to “sing your own song,” this is a track for which Ayako Fuji herself handled both lyrics and composition.
It was released in July 2025 as part of the double A-side single “Omoide-zukuri / Chiisana Kane no Ne ~La Campanella~.” Like flipping through the pages of a diary, the song traces memories, singing of bonds with family and friends as well as love for a partner.
With a melody that evokes the nostalgia of Showa-era kayōkyoku and folk music, and lyrics that chart the journey of a life, it’s the kind of song that will bring a loved one’s face to mind and surely make your heart swell.
Unreachable feelingsKaori Kouzai
This work portrays a protagonist single-heartedly longing for a former lover.
It’s a song by Kaori Kozai, slated for release in July 2025.
The heartrending desire to meet, if only in dreams, comes through clearly and tightens the chest.
Her wistful vocals further deepen the piece’s dramatic quality.
Those who carry indelible memories of a lost love will likely find themselves deeply empathizing with its aching emotions.
New Enka Song Releases (91–100)
I don't need to see you.Yuta Date
This is a dramatic enka ballad performed by Yuta Date, who is also drawing attention as a “fashion leader of the pop music world.” It portrays a heartbreakingly poignant love for someone precious whom one cannot meet.
Date’s husky vocals seem to speak to the depth of those hidden feelings.
Released in July 2025, this piece is perfect for a night when there’s someone you can’t forget—why not savor it alone, steeped in sentiment?