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[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.

[Songs of Aomori] A collection of local songs depicting the grandeur of nature and the warmth of its people (41–50)

Love at Tsugaru Jūsan LakeNagayama Yōko

Yoko Nagayama / Love at Lake Jusanko in Tsugaru
Love at Tsugaru Jūsan LakeNagayama Yōko

A single by Yoko Nagayama released in May 2014 (Heisei 26).

Jusan Lake is a brackish lake located in the northwestern part of the Shimokita Peninsula.

The song is powerfully sung with a brave, “Jonkara Onna-bushi”-like atmosphere, and the sound of the shamisen is woven in at key moments.

Tsugaru PlainSen Masao

A single by Masao Sen released in March 1984.

Hailing from Iwate Prefecture, Sen has many songs themed around the north, including the famous ‘Hokugoku no Haru’ (Spring in the North), and this track is also one of the quintessential local songs of Tsugaru.

The lyrics and music were written by Ikuzo Yoshi.

He provided the song before he had fully established himself as an enka singer, and later recorded a self-cover.

A Melancholy Road on the Shimokita PeninsulaMatsubara Nobue

Nobue Matsubara “Shimokita Peninsula Melancholy Road” MV [Official]
A Melancholy Road on the Shimokita PeninsulaMatsubara Nobue

A masterful performance by Nobue Matsubara, who gives voice to a soul-stirring poem passed down in the land of Mutsu.

Interweaving imagery of the harsh northern sea winds, lighthouses, and Kandachime horses, it beautifully conveys both aching longing and steadfast resolve.

Released in January 2025, this gem of an enka song was crafted by lyricist Shinichi Ishihara and composer Tetsuya Gen.

It’s a piece that resonates deeply with those who have faced partings in life or wish to confront their own feelings.

Celebrating her 45th debut anniversary, Nobue Matsubara’s voice delivers profound emotion alongside the spirit of the Shimokita Peninsula.

Towada Lake ElegySugata Michiko, Hiraizumi Sei

Michiko Sugata & Tadashi Hiraizumi “Towada Lake Elegy” (Showa 43-9)
Towada Lake ElegySugata Michiko, Hiraizumi Sei

A duet released in September 1968 by actress Michiko Sugata and actor Sei Hiraizumi.

Sei Hiraizumi is the same person as Sei Hiraizumi who is still active today as a renowned character actor, but many people may not know that he once pursued a singing career.

It’s a refreshing song set against the backdrop of Lake Towada.

In conclusion

Did you enjoy these heartwarming local songs from Aomori? You can listen while reminiscing about your hometown of Aomori, or while dreaming of Aomori as a place you long to visit.

We also recommend taking a musical journey that explores Aomori’s many charms.