[Showa Era] A roundup of nostalgic folk song classics and popular tracks you’ll want to sing at karaoke
What kind of image do you have of the music genre known as “folk songs”? Perhaps many of you picture Showa-era singers with an acoustic guitar in hand, singing lyrics like private diaries of everyday life—and at times delivering political messages.
In Japan, folk songs became a booming trend from the 1960s to the 1970s, and countless classic tracks that made music history were born as the style evolved.
In this article, we’ve curated a wide selection of nostalgic Japanese folk song classics that you’ll definitely want to try singing at karaoke.
Whether you experienced them in real time or you’re a younger listener who loves Showa-era music, be sure to check them out!
- A classic Japanese folk song passed down through generations of acoustic performances
- Folk songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: classic and popular tunes everyone can enjoy
- Folk dance classics and popular songs
- Nursery rhymes you’ll want to sing at karaoke: classic and popular songs everyone can enjoy together.
[Showa Era] A roundup of nostalgic folk song classics and popular tracks you’ll want to sing at karaoke (11–20)
Let me have that wonderful love once moreKazuhiko Kato, Osamu Kitayama
It’s a classic Showa-era folk song with a nostalgic atmosphere.
The lyrics, which weave together bittersweet memories of love and a longing to meet again, resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in April 1971, the song has remained beloved for many years.
There’s also a well-known story that Kazuhiko Kato and Osamu Kitayama completed the track in just two days.
The lyrics convey a longing for beautiful memories and shared moments, making it perfect for karaoke—a song you’ll want to sing quietly as you look back on times with someone special.
In a distant worldFive Red Balloons
Here is a classic masterpiece recommended for those who want to experience the finest folk songs of the Showa era and soothe their hearts.
Released as a single in 1969, it blossomed during the golden age of folk music.
Unlike the anti-war songs prevalent at the time, it drew attention as a piece themed around love and hope.
Its lyrics, which depict the dreams and hopes of young people in a dreamlike manner, resonated with a wide range of generations.
It was also featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” and used in corporate commercials, making it a beloved song that continues to be cherished by many.
It’s easy to sing at karaoke, too—why not savor its memorable lyrics as you sing along to its relaxed rhythm?
Solitary BloomCHAGE and ASKA
This is Chage & Aska’s debut song.
The two still had a rather rough feel at the time, but their musical sensibility was outstanding even then.
Although they eventually moved away from folk music as the times changed, their debut was unmistakably folk.
Among the many Chage and Aska songs, this one is a popular pick for karaoke.
The lyrics seem to depict a woman’s heartbreak and lost dreams, but since Chage and Aska actually parted ways with their amateur-era group to make their debut, it might also carry that meaning.
Strawberry Statement, Once Morebang bang
Here is a classic song that captures nostalgic memories of youth.
Released as a single in 1975, it has continued to resonate with many people ever since.
Banban’s warm vocals and the gentle tones of the acoustic guitar vividly bring back the bittersweet memories of younger days.
The lyrics, filled with student-era romance, friendship, and the atmosphere of the times, have a compelling charm that deeply connects with listeners.
It was highly popular even back then, ranking 13th on the annual sales chart for that year.
If you sing it at karaoke, try delivering it gently at a relaxed tempo, as if you’re looking back on fond memories.
It’s sure to strike a chord with people of all ages.
Journey of the HeartTULIP
A classic folk song that sings of youthful passion in search of departure and freedom.
Its simple acoustic guitar melody and unforgettable lyrics move the hearts of listeners.
Released in April 1973 as one of TULIP’s signature works, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon chart.
It was used as the theme song for the TV program “Ninjō Ippon Kokoro no Tabi” and in a Toyota Carina commercial.
It’s a great pick for karaoke, especially for those who’ve experienced moving to a big city or parting ways.
Why not sing it soulfully while reflecting on your memories?
Cape TourKotaro Yamamoto and Weekend
Released in June 1974 as the debut single of Kotaro Yamamoto and The Weekend, this song is a classic that sings of the pain of heartbreak and the hope that follows.
It delicately portrays a man trying to heal his emotional wounds by touring capes along the coast, with the beauty of nature offering quiet comfort—an especially striking image.
Featuring a gentle melody and poetic lyrics, it became a major hit, peaking at No.
5 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
For karaoke, it’s recommended to sing while picturing natural scenery, infusing your performance with both the bittersweetness of lost love and the courage to move forward.
With lyrics that resonate and a familiar, approachable melody, it remains a beloved song across generations.
[Showa] A roundup of nostalgic folk song classics and popular tracks you’ll want to sing at karaoke (21–30)
Heart patternYosui Inoue
It was released in September 1973.
The lyrics, which entrust the heart’s feelings to a letter, are deeply moving.
Partway through, it shifts to an up-tempo beat, and your emotions surge all at once.
To express the helpless feelings of lovers separated by distance, singing with full emotion makes it sound really cool.