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-See Popular Kayō Songs (51–60)

Kokoro KaleidoscopeKeisuke Yamauchi

Keisuke Yamauchi “Kokoro Kaleidoscope” Music Video

Kokoro Kaleidoscope Keisuke Yamauchi

An expressive song that likens the complexity and beauty of life to a kaleidoscope.

It’s the 23rd single by the “prince of enka,” Keisuke Yamauchi, released in March 2023.

It begins with the sleepless feelings under a murky moonlight, then portrays the hope that lies beyond one’s limits and the wonder of cherishing every fleeting moment.

Released at the milestone of his 40th birthday, the work is positioned as the opening of Yamauchi’s “third chapter,” symbolizing a new musical challenge.

It’s a piece that gives each listener courage for their daily battles.

Highly recommended when you feel lost in life or on the verge of being hurt.

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How Angels and Demons LoveWind Wheel

Wind Ring: “How Angels and Demons Love” MV [Official]

Angel and Demon Love Style: Wind Ring

A heart-stirring duo song where diverse musical styles blend together.

“How Angels and Demons Love” was released in April 2025 as Fuurin’s third single.

Crafted by the accomplished songwriting team of Masato Sugimoto and Mami Takubo, it’s a sweet yet bittersweet love song.

With a romantically atmospheric arrangement that highlights the duo’s clear, expansive vocals, the track shines.

It’s a perfect pick for anyone seeking a love-boosting kayōkyoku-style tune.

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companion on the road; fellow traveler; taking someone along (often unwillingly)Hiroshi Miyama

companion on the road; fellow traveler; taking someone along (often unwillingly)

Companion Michiyama Hiroshi

A song by Hiroshi Miyama that portrays the bond between a man and a woman as they journey through life’s ups and downs.

It expresses a fate that drifts like floating weeds through a gentle ballad.

Miyama’s powerful yet warm vocals truly resonate with listeners.

The track is included on the album “Utaitsugu! Nihon no Ryūkōka Part 5,” released on June 5, 2024.

Originally released in 1978 as a song by Mieko Makimura, Miyama’s cover brings out a fresh charm.

It’s a perfect song for times when you feel lost in life or want to feel the connection with someone important.

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The Nightingale’s Unrequited LoveHiroshi Takeshima

Hiroshi Takeshima “The Nightingale’s Unrequited Love” Music Video

Nightingale's Unrequited Love by Hiroshi Takeshima

A piercing ache for a loved one grips the heart.

This song by Hiroshi Takeshima is a moving tale of tragic love inspired by an Andersen fairytale.

With heartfelt emotion, it portrays a nightingale’s pure resolve to risk its life to save the one it loves.

Released in June 2025 as his 30th single, it even hit No.

1 on the cable enka/kayōkyoku request rankings before it went on sale! Its dramatic melody and heart-grabbing vocals draw listeners irresistibly into the story’s world.

Be sure to listen closely!

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

Still in YokohamaMiyuki Kadomatsu

Miyuki Kadomatsu / Even Now, Yokohama

Even now, Yokohama Kadomatsu Miyuki

Set against the cityscape of Yokohama, this song poignantly sings of bittersweet love.

Miyuki Kadomatsu’s expansive, powerful vocals leave a strong impression and resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in July 2024, the track drew attention as Kadomatsu’s sixth single.

With a mid-tempo melody, a love story woven alongside Yokohama’s scenery presses close to the heart.

While rooted in the traditions of kayōkyoku, Kadomatsu’s vocal prowess brings a fresh breath of life.

Recommended for those troubled by love or those who hold memories of the city of Yokohama.

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Gion Dark Cherry BlossomsHiroshi Miyama

Gion Dark Cherry Blossoms

Gion Dark Cherry Blossoms Hiroshi Miyama

This is a tragic love story set in Kyoto’s Gion! With lyrics by Shinichi Ishihara and music by Tetsuya Gen, it’s slated for release in June 2025.

The lyrics interweave the ambience of the hanamachi and a fleeting romance, painting beautiful scenes reminiscent of Taisho romanticism.

Sang tenderly by Hiroshi Miyama, his warm voice conveys the ache of unrequited love.

Highly recommended for those who want to savor the atmosphere of traditional Japan or lose themselves in thoughts of the ancient capital!

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Hometown Spring and AutumnAkio Suga

Ryo Suga / Hometown: Spring and Autumn

Furusato Spring and Autumn, Suga Akio

This is a song by singer Akio Suga from Higashimatsushima, Miyagi Prefecture.

It’s a heartwarming enka piece filled with gratitude to his grandfather and deep love for his hometown, released by Nippon Columbia in May 2025.

With lyrics by Aoi Kitazume and music by Seita Minamino, it vividly expresses feelings for home as the seasons change.

Suga’s clear, soaring vocals convey his feelings for his grandfather straight to the listener.

It’s a track you’ll want to hear when living away from your hometown or when you wish to renew your sense of gratitude to someone dear.

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