A classic song that celebrates Fukui. The enduring spirit of our hometown passed down through song.

TojinboMizumori Kaori

Kaori Mizumori Memorial Concert 2019 “Tojinbo” Special Release!

Kaori Mizumori’s “Tojinbo” is an timeless masterpiece released in 2002.

Set against Tojinbo, a famous scenic spot in Fukui Prefecture, it portrays the heartache and loneliness of a woman forced to part ways.

Centered on heartbreak, the song is imbued with emotion so moving it makes one’s chest tremble, resonating deeply with many listeners.

Even as time has passed since its release, it continues to be cherished by countless enka fans.

By the way, you can relive the background behind the song and her challenges in the manga “The Kaori Mizumori Story, Episode 1.”

Alone on the Sea of JapanIshihara Junko

Alone at the Sea of Japan — Junko Ishihara — Hitorinihonkai

Although it shares the Sea of Japan in the title, “Aishu Nihonkai” has different lyrics; still, it follows the same journey of a heartbroken traveler, singing from Wakasa in Fukui Prefecture through Noto in Ishikawa to Niigata Prefecture.

Raised in a family of shigin (Japanese poetic recitation) masters, Ayako Ishihara became an assistant master of the Isui school of shigin at the age of 12.

From her debut, she reportedly aimed to become an enka singer with the powerful resonant style—like Fuyumi Sakamoto’s signature vocal ‘unari-bushi.’

New Fukui Prefecture Residents’ SongFukui Prefecture

New Fukui Prefecture Anthem, Hiroshi Itsuki Vocal Version

This song was first unveiled at the event “Fukui Happiness and Energy Sports Festa 2014,” held in December 2014.

The lyrics were written by the poet Tatsuji Miyoshi, and the music was composed by the world-renowned conductor Chosei Komatsu.

While inheriting the traditional lyrics established in 1954 and looking ahead to the 2018 Fukui National Sports Festival, this work was reborn with a contemporary, accessible melody.

The lyrics, which sing of the beautiful nature and industries of Echizen and Wakasa, as well as hopes for the future, remain intact, while the refreshing melody is something anyone can hum along to.

The prefecture officially distributes scores for orchestral accompaniment and wind ensemble versions, and the piece is cherished as public music rooted in the community.

From ceremonies to sporting venues, it is a song widely passed down to unite the hearts of the prefecture’s residents.

Echizen ShigureKagami Goro

Goro Kagami Echizen Shigure Enka Selection

It’s an enka song that really captivates the listener.

The prefectural flower of Fukui is the daffodil, and there’s also a park called Echizen Misaki Suisen Land.

Using the word “shigure” to describe the Sea of Japan and Echizen evokes the image of tears.

The reason this singer’s son became fairly well-known is that a radio program put out a call for letters from the children of struggling enka singers, and Goro Kagami’s son began appearing regularly by phone and such.

It all came from his desire to see his father become successful.

The Flow of the Kuzuryu RiverNanbu Naoto

Naoto Nanbu “The Flow of the Kuzuryu” PV

The Kuzuryu River is a first-class river that flows through the Reihoku region of Fukui Prefecture, and its drainage basin astonishingly accounts for 70% of the prefecture’s total area.

As you would expect, the Kuzuryu River is a symbol for the people of Fukui, and like this song, it has a rich history; it is like a mother, and the song expresses the people of Fukui’s love for their homeland.

Hokuriku Main LineDaichi Makoto

Hokuriku Main Line 02 Makoto Daichi

The song Hokuriku Main Line, included on Makoto Daichi’s single Hamazakaba / Hokuriku Main Line, is a track that conveys a deep love for Fukui Prefecture.

Since its release on August 4, 2010, it has been listened to by many people.

With lyrics by Kyosuke Kuni and music by Yuu Hijikawa, the melody—paired with a story of parting and reunion—resonates with listeners.

This tale of traveling the rails, carrying a bittersweet longing for one’s hometown, is recommended not only for those familiar with Fukui but also for those who have yet to visit.

Savor the charms of Fukui through Makoto Daichi’s vocals!

Wakasa Love SongYamamoto Satoko

Enka Earbag Notes: Wakasa Love Song, Ms. Tomoko Yamamoto.

Songs with crisp, dynamic vocals and clear diction are among the easiest to listen to in the enka genre.

Wakasa Bay appears in song lyrics in various ways, but perhaps because the image of harsh winter waves is so strong, it often serves as the backdrop for enduring love or cutting ties with lingering feelings after a breakup.

In reality, though, it’s also a place that looks like a fun tourist destination.