Lovely nursery rhymes, folk songs, and children's songs

[Traditional Performing Arts of Okinawa] A special feature on classic Eisa songs that make you want to dance

POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

We’re introducing songs that make you want to dance—both lively picks and timeless classics—perfect for Eisa, the traditional Okinawan summer performance.

Eisa is said to have begun as a dance to see off and welcome ancestral spirits during the Obon season, and nowadays events are held not only in Okinawa but elsewhere as well.

Each song captures the spirit and character of Okinawa, lifting you into a bright, joyful mood.

Give them a listen not only when choosing music for Eisa, but also whenever you want to savor powerful, radiant Okinawan songs that fit beautifully in those settings.

[Okinawan Traditional Performing Arts] Eisa Standard Songs: A Collection of Tunes That Make You Want to Dance (41–50)

Festival of ProsperityYaeyama min’yō

Prosperity Festival | Yaeyama folk song praising the village’s flourishing and nature [Okinawan song]

Festival of ProsperityYaeyama min'yō

A masterpiece of Yaeyama folk music that celebrates rich nature and everyday life is perfect for Eisa dance and school sports day performances! Accompanied by the resonant tones of the sanshin, this piece vividly portrays island scenes with emotion.

Its relaxed rhythm and lush melodies are soothing, while blending beautifully with the energetic dynamism of Eisa.

It’s recommended for those who want to engage with Okinawa’s traditional culture while captivating the audience with a high-energy performance.

Paired with children’s lively expressions, it’s sure to liven up any sports day.

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Ryukyuan HymnKaisegatou Yutaka

Ryukyuan Hymn

Ryukyuan HymnKaisegatou Yutaka

Hosei Toyo’s music, where traditional Okinawan sounds and modern elements blend beautifully, captivates with the powerful rhythms of the sanshin and drums and melodies that resonate in the heart.

This piece celebrates the charms of Okinawa and is a familiar tune among locals, used for the prefecture’s tourism promotions and as a theme song for local TV programs.

Incorporating it into a school sports day program will let the energetic drum beats and the dynamic tones of the sanshin further elevate the children’s performance.

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In conclusion

We introduced classic Eisa songs—irresistibly danceable tracks perfect for different scenes. Did you find the song you were looking for, or discover one that caught your interest? Each track captures the atmosphere of Okinawa and is sure to lift your spirits. They’re great not only for Eisa performances but also for those times when you want to enjoy that bright, cheerful vibe—so take your time and give them a listen.