Enka’s recent hit songs in 2025: Must-watch popular kayō tracks

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!

In this article, we’ll introduce the latest hit enka songs recommended not only for longtime fans but also for those who’ve recently gotten into the genre.

We carefully selected tracks by comparing multiple charts, balancing freshness with popularity.

While enka is often associated with passionate, emotionally charged performances, we found that many recent songs are quite accessible and easy to enjoy.

Give them a listen and you may discover something new—or even find a favorite singer you didn’t know before.

Use this article as a guide when researching today’s most popular enka tracks!

[2025] Recent enka hits: Must-watch popular kayō songs (61–70)

A Woman's LoveHiroko Matsumae

Hiroko Matsumae “A Woman’s Love Path” MV 1 Chorus [Official]

A Woman’s Love Path — Hiroko Matsumae

On January 17, 2024, Hiroko Matsumae delivered a new buzzworthy song to the enka scene.

Released as her 55th anniversary single, “Onna no Koiji” spotlights a woman’s passion and love.

Even within its light, upbeat rhythm, it’s infused with the rich emotion unique to enka, stirring the heart.

Matsumae’s smooth, heartfelt vocals vividly express the song’s theme: a woman’s own view of love.

Its positive message—wishing for a happy life with the one you love—will resonate not only with enka fans but across generations.

Experience Matsumae’s music, where Japan’s natural spirit intertwines with personal passion.

Raise the rankinglower

Man BoatTakashi Hosokawa

Takashi Hosokawa / Otokobune

Man Boat Takashi Hosokawa

A gem of a song delivered by Takashi Hosokawa with a soul-stirring, powerful voice.

The bold yet wistful sound woven by Tsugaru shamisen and trumpet leaves a strong impression.

Set in Esashi, Hokkaido, it sings of a fisherman’s heart as he faces rough seas while thinking of his mother.

Released on July 3, 2024, this work commemorates Hosokawa’s 50th anniversary in the performing arts.

Lyrics by Yu Tomaru, music by Sora Masuda.

The coupling track “Ouenka, Ikimasu” is also included.

Highly recommended for those seeking the courage to face life’s stormy seas.

Raise the rankinglower

Alone on the shoreKazuo Chiba

Kazuo Chiba “Alone on the Beach” Music Video

Alone on the Shore, Kazuo Chiba

This is a single by Enka veteran Kazuo Chiba, slated for release in April 2025.

With an emotionally rich melody, it beautifully captures the poignant feelings of recalling a past love on a twilight shore.

The lyrics by Hajime Ryū and the composition crafted by Kaoru Hanagasa are a perfect match, resulting in a work that truly resonates with listeners.

It’s a gem of a track for those who relate to the subtleties of life and the ache of bittersweet love, and for anyone seeking Enka that speaks directly to the heart.

Raise the rankinglower

hazyYukino Ichikawa

Yukino Ichikawa “Oboro” Music Video

Oboro Ichikawa Yukino

This is a passionate number electrified by a powerful electric guitar from the intro.

It’s a work by Yukino Ichikawa, released in May 2025.

Said to express the innate strength women possess, it also seems to overlap with Ichikawa’s feelings as she returned after a period of rest and battling illness.

It conveys a brilliance of life that goes beyond the confines of a mere “love song.” It may give you a push when you need the resolve to take a new step in life or the strength to overcome obstacles.

Raise the rankinglower

No way!/Not a chance!Mika Jinno

Mika Jinno “Mappira Gomen” Music Video

Absolutely not! (by Mika Jinno)

This work features a warm, comforting vocal that stays close to the heart.

It’s a single by Mika Shinno—renowned as a powerhouse in the enka world—set for release in May 2025, blending enka’s traditions with a modern arrangement.

The lyrics directly portray a man’s way of life, harmonizing beautifully with her powerful singing.

It’s a song not only for enka fans, but also for those standing at a crossroads in life or feeling emotionally shaken.

Raise the rankinglower

Kegon FallsKaori Aoi

[Full MV] Kawori Aoi “Kegon Falls” [Official]

Aoi Kaori from Satoguchi at Kegon Falls

The dramatic arrangement—featuring strings that evoke grand natural scenery and the inclusion of traditional Japanese instruments—leaves a strong impression.

Aoi Kaori’s “Kegon no Taki,” released in May 2025, beautifully harmonizes a worldview inspired by Kegon Falls in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, with her heartrending vocals, just as the title suggests.

The lyrics, reflecting a woman’s feelings as she tries to forget a love that has ended, really hit home.

This is enka at its finest—be sure to experience it for yourself.

Raise the rankinglower

I long for Southern HokkaidoYudai Koyama

The 66th Shining! Japan Record Awards Newcomer Award | Yudai Koyama “Donan Koishiya” Music Video (Full Ver.)

Dōnan Koishiya, Oyama Yudai

Yudai Koyama is an enka singer whose steady, solid vocal ability is striking—something you wouldn’t expect from his boyish, almost high-schooler look.

His voice may seem high-pitched at first, but that’s only in the upper register; his mid to low range has richness and depth, and his stable vocal technique is highly regarded in the industry.

His new song, “Donan Koishiya,” is a piece that encapsulates his charm.

Though he sings it with an effortless touch, the song features a great many delicate kobushi (melismatic ornamentations).

Be sure to check it out.

Raise the rankinglower