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 memories of home (41–50)
Mito Kaidō (Mito Highway/Road)Narasaki Masaaki
As the title suggests, this is a hometown-loving piece themed around the Mito Kaido, the old highway stretching from Ibaraki Prefecture to Tokyo.
The song is by Masaaki Narazaki, a singer from Ibaraki who also serves as a Mito ambassador, and it was released in May 2024.
The lively melody pairs beautifully with lyrics that evoke a sense of travel, bringing the scenery of the highway vividly to mind.
And Narazaki’s warm, rich vocals are truly wonderful.
It’s a song that lifts your spirits—one I’d highly recommend for karaoke with friends!
I remembered my hometown.Niinuma Kenji
A deep affection for one’s hometown seeps into the heart.
Sung by Kenji Niinuma, a native of Ofunato City in Iwate Prefecture, this gentle piece wraps the scenery of his hometown and family memories in a warm embrace.
Released as a single by Nippon Columbia in April 2025, it features a warmly crafted sound that blends nostalgia with modern arrangements.
His expansive, expressive vocals softly stir the listener’s memories.
If you live away from your hometown or carry thoughts of your family close to your heart, please give it a listen.
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?