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)
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.
hometownshouka
Blue mountains, pure waters, and memories of childhood play.
The gentle melody that wraps these scenes of a beloved hometown, along with feelings for family and friends living far away, holds a universal appeal that resonates with everyone.
First published in 1914 as a Ministry of Education school song, this piece was created by Tatsuyuki Takano and Teiichi Okano, vividly reflecting the rural landscapes and lifestyles of Japan at the time.
It was sung at the closing ceremony of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, moving countless people.
Its simple, memorable melody in G major and triple meter continues to be sung at life’s milestones, such as graduation and coming-of-age ceremonies.
With lyrics and melody that evoke nostalgia, it is truly a song that stands by all who live away from their hometowns—a work that can be said to symbolize the heart of Japan.
Yanagase once moreAndō Katsuyuki
This is a kayōkyoku (Japanese popular song) dedicated to Yanagase in Gifu.
Released by Katsuyuki Ando in January 2025, its gently paced lyrics weave together Yanagase’s past and present, along with hopes for its future.
Ando’s sincere vocals resonate with both the ears and the heart.
It’s a song that will touch people not only in Gifu Prefecture but across Japan.
Give it a listen when you want to renew your feelings for your hometown—it’s sure to sink in.
Tsugaru Shamisen StorySaisei
This is a warm-hearted song themed around the shamisen rooted in the land of Tsugaru.
Written and composed by Ikuzo Yoshi, it was released in February 2025.
It’s an enka number that gently weaves together the protagonist’s feelings toward their parents and pride in the shamisen, having chosen a path away from their hometown.
A modern, rock-like arrangement and effective use of electric guitar shine throughout.
Ayasei’s emotionally rich vocals, singing of gratitude to father and mother and a longing for home, and the shamisen’s evocative tones that resonate like memories, sink deep into the heart.
The scenic descriptions are superb, such as the scene of looking up at the stars on a blizzardy night while thinking of home.
It’s a song that offers comfort to those living apart from their families and hometown.
A classic enka song about one’s hometown. A wonderful song that evokes memories of home (61–70).
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.
Hirosaki StoryFujiwara Dai
Set against the scenery of Hirosaki, this gem of a track weaves a story of deep love.
Released in January 2025, it is Ms.
Fujiwara’s 10th-anniversary debut single.
The song richly portrays the protagonist, who returns to Hirosaki for the first time in four years, reuniting with the lover who kept their promise.
Lyrics interlace Hirosaki’s landmarks—Nakamachi, the castle town, the church bells—painting vivid images in the listener’s mind.
Give it a listen when you want to resonate with the bittersweet feelings of longing for someone you love.
Koedo Spring: A Spring Evening in KawagoeKeiko Aso
A February 2025 song by Keiko Aso that richly evokes the nostalgic streetscapes of Kawagoe, Saitama.
You can almost see the kura-zukuri townscape, layered with history, bathed in moonlight on a tranquil spring evening.
Its gently flowing melody and clear vocals bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
Recommended for those who want to reflect on the classic charm of Japan’s old townscapes or simply enjoy a soothing moment.
The timeless allure of Little Edo, passed down through the ages, touches the heart.