[Songs of Aomori] A collection of local songs depicting the grandeur of nature and the warmth of its people.
The fertile fields and the Tsugaru Plain stretching serenely, the majestic Hakkoda Mountains, and the grand Sea of Japan.
Songs born from Aomori’s nature-rich land are loved not only by its residents but by many people far and wide.
In this article, we introduce captivating pieces woven with Aomori’s scenery and sentiment—from local songs cherished by the community, to popular ballads set in Aomori, to hometown tunes by artists hailing from the prefecture.
Please enjoy them while reflecting on the land of Aomori and the hometown that resides in each of our hearts.
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[Aomori Songs] A collection of local tunes depicting the grandeur of nature and the warmth of its people (11–20)
The Woman of the Tsugaru StraitSonin
Sonim debuted in 2000 as the vocalist of EE JUMP.
Tsugaru Kaikyō no Onna is her second solo single, released in November 2002.
Despite its enka-like title, it’s a pop song written and composed by Tsunku♂.
Many listeners may have seen themselves in the image of someone living alone in Tokyo, thinking of their hometown while listening to a song from Tsugaru.
Aomori ElegyHonma Aine
A song where the protagonist’s bittersweet feelings, visiting the hometown of a former lover, overlap with the harsh winter scenes of Aomori.
Manane Honma’s heartfelt vocals leave a deep impression on listeners.
Released in January 2024, this work is the coupling track on Honma’s first single after moving to King Records.
The music video, filmed in Sotogahama, Aomori Prefecture, also drew attention.
Her vocals, filled with love for Aomori, are sure to set your heart aglow.
Train of Love for YouFutami Souichi
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
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
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.
Lake TowadaKitajima Saburō
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.
[Aomori Songs] A collection of local tunes depicting majestic nature and the warmth of its people (21–30)
Solo Journey with the Tsugaru ShamisenSaisei
This song captures the resolve and loneliness of leaving one’s hometown to devote oneself to a life in the performing arts.
Ayasei, who sings and also plays the Tsugaru shamisen and shakuhachi, puts the instrument at the core of his roots—the Tsugaru shamisen—front and center, stirring the listener’s heart.
Set against the harsh natural backdrop of Japan’s northern lands, the piece portrays a young person pursuing a dream alone.
Their earnest determination overlaps with the shamisen’s powerful yet somehow wistful tones, resonating deeply with all who listen.
Riding the momentum of winning the Best New Artist Award at the 61st Japan Record Awards, Ayasei released this track as his second single in May 2020.