[Akita Songs] A Collection of Gem-Like Local Tunes Filled with Love for Hometowns

Akita Prefectural AnthemNarita Tamezō

Akita Prefectural Anthem

The Akita Prefectural Anthem is a work composed by Tamezo Narita, a composer who left behind many celebrated masterpieces in Japan.

Brimming with the charms of Akita—its abundant nature and the traditional culture that people have steadfastly preserved—it is loved not only by prefectural residents but by many others as a song that symbolizes Akita.

It can rightly be called a quintessential local song that moves listeners, even those who are not from Akita.

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Akita HATA☆HATA☆ROCK & SAMBA!!Watanabe Jun’ya

[High Quality] Akita HATA☆HATA☆ROCK & SAMBA!!

It’s a delightfully upbeat local song where the spirit of Akita bursts forth to the rhythms of rock and samba.

Created by singer-songwriter Jinya Watanabe from Akita Prefecture, the track was produced in October 2017 as part of the “Song and Picture CD” series and was also included on Nippon Columbia’s album Definitive Edition! Collection of Japanese Bon Odori.

Centering on the prefectural fish, the sandfish (hatahata), its sound blends melodies of Akita folk music with Latin rhythms and rock guitar—just listening to it lifts your spirits.

The lyrics humorously showcase landmarks and specialties from 25 cities, towns, and villages across the prefecture, making it a song brimming with local pride and affection.

Soar, Akita kids!Tsukumo Yuu

Soar, Akita kids!

A hopeful cheering song that powerfully supports the children of Akita as they stride toward the future.

Yuu Tsukumo’s emotionally rich vocals blend with a lively, energetic chorus to warmly embrace listeners’ hearts.

Created in May 1999 as the image song for Meitoku Elementary School, the piece carries a special warmth unique to Yuu Tsukumo, who values bonds with the community—evidenced by the story that the school’s own students took part in the recording.

It’s a classic filled with kindness and vitality that gently stays by your side when you feel homesick or want to reconnect with a pure, sincere heart.

Akita Ondo — AKITA ONDO — Bonjour Club MixAyako Fuji feat. m.c.A・T

Aya Fuji feat. m.c.A•T “Akita Ondo – AKITA ONDO – Bonjour Club Mix” Music Video (1 Chorus)

This is a collaboration track by Ayako Fuji, an enka singer from Akita, and m.c.A•T, a leading figure in Japan’s hip-hop scene.

The rap and danceable beats by m.c.A•T further highlight the appeal of folk songs that rhythmically sing about Akita’s climate and specialties, creating a sound brimming with festive energy.

Released as a single in January 2019, the song was performed on programs like NHK’s “Uta Kon,” garnering a huge response.

TOMO from DA PUMP choreographed the much-talked-about “Yakuyoke Dance”! It’s a song that conveys deep love for one’s hometown and a bold spirit to carry tradition into the future.

Namahageningen ishi

Ningen Isu / Namahage

This is a track that powerfully portrays a traditional event from Akita Prefecture with a heavy, weighty metal sound.

Originally included on the album “Burai Hōjō,” released in June 2014, it was later selected for the band’s career-spanning best-of compilation, “Ningen Isu Meisakusen: 30th Anniversary Best.” The way the Aomori-born members depict the culture of neighboring Akita may reflect a deep affection and respect for the Tohoku region as a whole.

Why not experience the distinctive atmosphere of Japanese folklore—and the prayers of the people behind it—through this exhilarating performance?

Land of Wind, AKITANakagawa Nami

[Land of Wind AKITA] Theme Song of the Local RPG 'Akita City Quest'

It’s a sweeping ballad that brings to mind Akita’s majestic nature and the warmth of the people who live there.

Vocals are by Nami Nakagawa, known for an insert song in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, and the generous use of the Akita dialect in the lyrics gently stirs listeners’ nostalgia.

The track is the official theme song for the local RPG “Akita City Quest,” released in July 2023.

The story of its production—reaching the crowdfunding goal of 33.3 million yen—conveys the community’s high expectations and deep affection for Akita.

MasterAkiyama Ryūji

Master

A master at a live music club told him, “You’ve got to go at least once,” and recommended Akita.

Despite his growing longing, he keeps getting blocked by trivial everyday happenings and, in the end, never manages to go—Akiyama Ryūji sings about this frustration with comical flair.

There’s a curious charm in how his earnest wish is somehow thwarted by familiar errands like keeping up with a TV drama series or trying a seasonal limited-time drink—situations that make you empathize and yet burst out laughing.

This song was born from a segment on Fuji TV’s “Omokuri Kantoku.” Many people who yearn to travel but end up overwhelmed by daily chores will likely feel as if the song is speaking directly about them.