[Songs of Aomori] A collection of local songs depicting the grandeur of nature and the warmth of its people.

Tsugaru Sakura Storykawanaka miyuki

[MV] Miyuki Kawanaka / Tsugaru Sakura Story (full ver.)

A heartwarming, human-spirited enka born from feelings for a late best friend.

Sung by enka artist Miyuki Kawanaka, whose clear voice captivates fans, the song was released in February 2017 as the first entry in a series commemorating her 40th year in show business.

Brimming with the seasonal atmosphere leading up to the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival, it richly portrays the spring of Tsugaru.

The lyricist’s bittersweet emotions are woven into the piece, and there’s a touching anecdote that it came into the world because Kawanaka herself fell in love with it.

Why not listen closely on a night when you’re reminiscing about your hometown or someone dear?

I’ve fallen for you.Ishihara Junko

Junko Ishihara “Have Fallen in Love” Music Video (1 Chorus)

From the skies of Tsugaru where snow dances, to the freezing Sea of Japan—set against the stark scenery of the northern country, this is Junko Ishihara’s debut work, which brilliantly portrays a burning, single-minded love.

The protagonist’s bittersweet yet passionate desire to see the one they love—even if it tears them apart—comes across directly through a sprightly, enka-style melody infused with pop elements.

Released in October 1988, the song also drew attention for its innovative style, with Ishihara performing as an “idol-enka” singer in a mini-skirt.

It’s the perfect listen when you want to let your mind wander to the landscapes of Aomori.

Tsugaru Nakase-bushiHosokawa Takashi

Takashi Hosokawa / Tsugaru Nakase-bushi

This is an authentic enka piece that powerfully evokes the harsh winter scenery of Tsugaru and the fervent emotions of the people who live there.

It’s a commemorative work released in May 2025 by Takashi Hosokawa to mark his 50th year in the performing arts, portraying the heartrending feelings of a woman shedding tears over an unattainable love.

Against the backdrop of Tsugaru’s rough, snow-swept sea, the heroine’s sorrow seems to intertwine with the poignant tones of the Tsugaru shamisen.

Hosokawa’s powerful vocals bring into sharp relief a figure who, burdened by feelings beyond her control, still strives to live with all her might.

It’s a song to savor slowly while thinking of one’s hometown.

Lake TowadaKitajima Saburō

Lake Towada

Set against the majestic scenery of a lake stretching across the border between Aomori and Akita, this is a life-themed enka by Saburo Kitajima that sings of the profound depths of existence.

The protagonist, reflecting on his own path by the lakeside, is portrayed through a powerful vocal performance.

The song’s appeal lies in its lyrical worldview, where the quiet of nature resonates with the cry of the human soul.

Released as a single in January 1999, it was also included on the album “Saburo Kitajima Complete Collection: Lake Towada / Root.” It’s a piece that will resonate deeply when you want to face yourself at a turning point in life, or when you wish to align your heart with the nature of your hometown.

Train of Love for YouFutami Souichi

Soichi Futami “Kimi Koi Ressha” MUSIC VIDEO

This is a travel-themed enka song by Soichi Futami, whose “yamabiko voice,” honed through folk music, resonates deeply.

As a continuation of the story from the previous release, it portrays the protagonist’s aching passion as he heads to Aomori in pursuit of a former lover.

The song’s exhilarating pace deftly captures both a racing heart and the speed of a rushing train.

Released in November 2022 as the second single in the “Train Series,” it was later included on the best-of album Yamabiko Best.

It’s a perfect piece for journeys spent thinking of someone dear, or for moments of nostalgia for one’s hometown.

dodarebachiningen ishi

Ningen Isu “Dodarebachi” LIVE (Ningen Isu/Dodarebachi)

This is a song brimming with a rustic, homegrown charm, sung entirely in the Tsugaru dialect.

Performed by the Hirosaki, Aomori–born band Ningen Isu, it appears on their classic album Odoru Issun-boshi, released in December 1995.

The fusion of heavy sounds with folk-like melodic turns conjures vivid images of Tsugaru’s harsh natural environment and the resilient people who live there.

Infused with a warm, endearing quality that only a hometown accent can convey, this piece is sure to give you a gentle push when you find yourself thinking of home.

Aomori Rock Ministerningen ishi

Aomori Rock Minister

This is a quintessential Ningen Isu track that shouts a twisted love for their hometown over a hard rock sound.

At first listen it may come off as humorous and self-deprecating, but beneath that lies a fierce affection and pride for their birthplace, Aomori.

The anecdote that they incorporated in-train announcements from their trips home into the lyrics also conveys a deep attachment to everyday life back in their hometown.

The song was included on the album Rashomon, released in October 1993, and was also selected for the best-of compilation The Swindler and the Air Man: Ningen Isu Masterpieces.

It even became a local commercial jingle in Aomori—truly an officially recognized local anthem.