Kiyoshi Hikawa’s Triumphant Return to Enka at Kouhaku

“I was pleasantly surprised.”

The singer Kiyoshi Hikawa (47), surrounded by a large group of staff, emerged from NHK with a look of fulfillment on his face.

After suspending his singing career following his performance at the 2022 “NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen” to take a break, Hikawa made his return after two years at last year’s Kōhaku, performing “Hakumo no Shiro.” Late at night on New Year’s Day after the broadcast ended, dressed in a black coat, Hikawa was seen enthusiastically chatting with staff until his transport arrived. With a satisfied expression, he got into the vehicle.

“Hikawa had become known for his flamboyant costumes and makeup while performing anime songs and similar genres. At the 2022 Kōhaku, he wore a flashy gold outfit and sang ‘Limit Break x Survivor,’ the opening theme for the anime Dragon Ball Super (Fuji TV). Many viewers expected him to appear in a similar style this time. However, to their surprise, he took the stage in traditional hakama attire and passionately sang his 2003 enka song ‘Hakumo no Shiro.’ Longtime Hikawa fans were pleasantly surprised,” said a TV magazine writer.

After his performance, Hikawa smiled and said:

“As long as I have life in me, I want to keep singing, so I ask for your continued support. Thank you very much.”

Social media reacted immediately to his appearance. While some expressed disappointment, saying, “I was hoping to see a new side of Hikawa,” the majority praised his return, commenting, “Enka suits him best—his singing is incredible,” and “His voice and aura have grown even more powerful since his hiatus.” Some even called it a return to his roots. How did people in the music industry view this comeback?