A classic enka masterpiece about one's hometown. A wonderful song that evokes thoughts of home.
Among the themes often sung in enka, there are quite a lot of songs about one’s hometown.
Some songs dwell on the family and friends left behind, while others convey a resolve like, “I can’t go back until I’ve made it!”—each carrying different emotions.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of classic enka songs written with thoughts of home.
If any of them resonates with your own experiences, it may become a truly special song for you.
Be sure to read the lyrics and listen closely.
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A classic enka masterpiece about one’s hometown. A wonderful song that evokes thoughts of home (51–60)
Mother’s sea songMuraki Dan
A heartwarming song that sings of the bonds of family through the sea.
Released in January 2025 as a single commemorating Dan Muraki’s 10th debut anniversary.
The lyrics—filled with feelings for a father who lives as a fisherman and the mother who supports him—leave a strong impression.
Told from the perspective of a son living in the city, its gratitude and concern for family resonate deeply.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you wish to reaffirm your feelings for your family and loved ones.
Shall I go back to Kure…Tani Ryusuke
In December 2024, Ryusuke Tani’s new single was released.
It’s a song filled with deep love for his hometown of Kure, Hiroshima, produced by Ikuzo Yoshi.
Part of it is said to be inspired by the local folk song Ondo no Funauta.
The single also includes a cover of Futari-bune as the coupling track.
Nineteen years since his 2005 debut, Tani’s vocals have grown even more refined.
Carried by a lyrical, emotionally rich melody, his longing for home comes through plainly and powerfully.
It might be great to listen to while driving—it’s sure to warm your heart.
Eternal HomelandMita Ryō
This piece is imbued with a deep love for Japan’s landscapes and culture.
Released in June 2024, it celebrates the value of Japan’s beautiful nature and inherited traditions.
Ryo Mita’s powerful vocals and the grand melody, layered with brass and woodwind arrangements, resonate deeply with listeners.
It is said to be inspired by the nature of Mita’s hometown, Akiruno City, which likely lends the song its depth.
Perfect for moments when you want to connect with the spirit of Japan or take a breather from busy days.
Please take your time and listen closely.
Hoshi no SatoOoki Ayako
A heartwarming song that entrusts feelings for one’s hometown to the starry sky.
Centered on Minamimaki Village in Nagano Prefecture, where Ayako Oki serves as a tourism ambassador, it features memorable lyrics depicting people who follow their dreams with the stars as their guide.
Her clear vocals stir a sense of nostalgia.
Set against the majestic nature of the Yatsugatake Mountains, the song directly conveys the longing for home.
Released in September 2024, it has lyrics by Haku Ide and music by Takashi Toshimi.
It’s a track that resonates with those living away from their hometowns.
Woman’s Nostalgic Song of HomeShima Etsuko
Etsuko Shima’s song, which sings of a heartrending longing for home, resonates deeply with those who feel lonely in the big city.
The nostalgia and bittersweet yearning for one’s hometown are expressed through an emotionally rich melody.
Shima’s clear, pure voice pierces the heart.
Scheduled for release in October 2024, this track is also drawing attention as the final work produced by her late mentor, Daisuke Mishima.
Along with the coupling track “Shiosai no Yado” (Inn of the Sea’s Murmur), an original karaoke version is also included.
It’s a song that speaks to people living away from their hometowns, so why not listen while basking in fond memories?
Farewell, SakurajimaSaisei
Set against Sakurajima, the symbol of Kagoshima, this song portrays the parting of youth as they leave their hometowns.
It was released in June 2024 to commemorate Ayasei’s 5th debut anniversary.
With its bright and uplifting melody, it captures young people’s determination and hope for the future.
The loneliness of leaving home and the courage to take a new step are powerfully conveyed through Ayasei’s strong vocals, leaving a lasting impression.
The song was also chosen as the theme for the BS TV Tokyo program “THE Meimonko: Japan’s Amazing Schools Directory.” It’s a perfect track for those starting a new chapter or standing at a crossroads in life—one that seems to give you the courage to look ahead every time you listen.
News from BizenNonaka Saori
A heartwarming song packed with the charms of Bizen City in Okayama Prefecture.
The lyrics are striking for weaving in the city’s symbolic colors: the blue of the Seto Inland Sea, the red of Bizen ware, and the green of its abundant nature.
Saori Nonaka’s clear, expansive vocals vividly portray the city’s beautiful landscapes and rich history.
Released in October 2024, this piece was created as the city song to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Bizen’s municipal merger.
The lyrics and composition were crafted by Reiji Mizuki and Chiaki Oka, both with ties to Okayama.
It’s recommended not only for locals but also for travel lovers.
The more you listen, the more you’re likely to grow fond of Bizen City.
A solitary homeward journeyKita Yūko
A song by Yuko Kita themed around homesickness.
It was released as a digital single in November 2024.
Set in the northern lands, its lyrics depicting a solitary journey resonate deeply.
The nostalgic melody and her emotionally rich vocals are sure to leave a lasting impression.
The coupling track, “Kita no Koiakari” (Northern Love Lights), is also included, unfolding a romantic story set in Hakodate.
Yuko Kita, a native of Minakami in Gunma Prefecture, held a 10th anniversary charity concert in 2022.
This work will offer comfort to those who have left their hometowns or carry loneliness in their hearts.
The northern city, HakodateKitagawa Daisuke
Daisuke Kitagawa has woven a poignant, adult love story set in a port town.
While richly retaining the nostalgic flavor of Showa-era kayōkyoku, this piece features a tenor saxophone that resonates to great effect, creating a gem of a song where wistfulness and warmth blend beautifully.
Scheduled for release in February 2025, the track is set in Hakodate and conveys feelings for a once-beloved partner now separated, expressed with remarkable vocal prowess.
Interweaving evocative depictions of Hakodate—its brick-lined streets and nightscapes—the song brings a heartfelt yearning for someone precious to the fore.
As a mellow, mature enka best savored alone on a quiet night, it leaves a deep and lasting impression.
South… spring and summerYoshi Ikuzo
This is an emotionally rich song that delicately portrays the changing seasons of the Tohoku region.
Released in January 2025, it features words woven by Ikuzo Yoshi with deep love for his hometown—words that are sure to move you.
Traditional chants and place names appear throughout, vividly conjuring the local scenery.
Why not listen to it when you’re feeling nostalgic or want to think of someone dear? It will surely touch your heart.