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

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 hit enka songs: Must-watch popular kayō tracks (111–120)

Foolish Love SongHitomi Hayase

Hitomi Hayase’s latest release is a quintessential enka song that sings of the pain of love.

Its lyrics, themed around regret and lingering feelings, resonate deeply with listeners.

The track will be released on January 1, 2025, and carries Hayase’s sentiments as she makes her comeback.

It’s recommended for those troubled by love or standing at a crossroads in life.

Why not spend some quiet time listening alone and facing your own feelings? You’re sure to find something that strikes a chord in your heart.

[2025] Recent hit enka songs: Must-watch popular kayō tracks (121–130)

Michinoku Pure Love SongMizuki Hayama

Mizuki Hayama 'Michinoku Pure Love Song' MUSIC VIDEO
Michinoku Junrenka Hayama Mizuki

A work sung by Mizuki Hayama in a light, modern enka style, depicting the pure love of a woman who keeps waiting.

Set against the landscapes and culture of Yamagata, her bittersweet feelings are expressed with rich emotion.

Released in December 2024, the song features lyrics by Makiko Suga and music by Yū Hijirikawa, infused with Hayama’s love for her hometown.

The lyrics weave in beautiful scenes of the Tohoku region—such as the Mogami River, the sounds of a loom, and snowy vistas—resonating deeply with listeners.

This piece is recommended for those who want to reaffirm their feelings for someone important amid the busyness of daily life.

Along with Hayama’s clear voice, why not experience the preciousness of pure love?

Spring-Waiting SakeYuri Harada

Yuri Harada “Spring-Waiting Sake” Music Video
Harumachi-zake Harada Yuri

It’s a stylish number that portrays the season when cherry blossom petals dance.

Released simultaneously with the album “Harukanaru Michi” in December 2024, this piece depicts the bond between two people who overcome life’s trials and keep believing in hope.

The scene of them sharing drinks and renewing their resolve for the future is rendered with rich emotion.

How about listening to it on a cold winter night, while you wait eagerly for spring to arrive? It’s sure to warm your heart.

TakumiKohei Fukuda

[Official] Kohei Fukuda "Takumi" Music Video
Takumi ~Takumi~ Kohei Fukuda

This is an enka song portraying a man who carves out his path through sweat and effort.

Set for release by Kohei Fukuda in January 2025, with lyrics by Takashi Manjo and composition by Chiaki Oka.

It’s a passionate work distinguished by its rokyoku-style melodic turns.

The song powerfully sings of the way of life of a Japanese man who advances steadily, step by step, and its robust vocals are sure to move you.

If you’re facing obstacles in work or life, this is a track you should definitely hear.

It will give you the courage to face forward.

Shall I go back to Kure…Ryusuke Tani

[Full MV] Ryusuke Tani "Should I Return to Kure…" [Official]
Shall I go back to Kure... Ryusuke Tani

A work filled with longing for a nostalgic hometown.

It’s a song by Ryusuke Tani, released in December 2024.

Its relaxed tempo and lyrical vocals are captivating.

Listening to it, you can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia.

The lyrics, which incorporate the Hiroshima dialect, convey a poignant desire to “return home,” warming the heart.

This is the second release produced by Ikuzo Yoshi.

It’s a must-listen for people living away from their hometowns and for enka fans.

Chururi (feat. Takako Matsu)yuzu

This song, sung by Yuzu and Takako Matsu, is a heartwarming piece filled with nostalgia and bittersweet emotion.

The gentle vocals, which seem to tenderly embrace the feeling of longing for someone dear as memories surface in everyday life, leave a strong impression.

Released digitally in November 2024, it was also used as the theme song for the Nissan Sakura commercial.

The trio’s collaboration on Fuji TV’s 2024 FNS Music Festival drew significant attention as well.

When you find yourself feeling wistful as you think of someone, why not give this song a listen? It’s sure to offer comfort to your heart.

gokuraku tonboHiroko Hattori

Hiroko Hattori “Gokuraku Tonbo” Music Video
Hattori Hiroko of Gokuraku Tonbo

A new single celebrating Hiroko Hattori’s 35th anniversary debut has arrived! Released in November 2024, the song is characterized by a fantastical and moving atmosphere.

Lyrics by Ayumi Tomori and composition by Satoshi Hibara highlight Hattori’s warm, expressive vocals, which elevate the track’s appeal.

It’s a piece that makes you feel dreams and hopes, as if guiding you from everyday life into an ideal world.

Blending enka and pop, the work preserves Hattori’s signature style while exploring a fresh musical approach.

Her deeply resonant voice enriches the song’s theme even further, making a lasting impression on listeners.

Highly recommended for karaoke fans, too!