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[Songs of Fukushima] Thinking of my hometown | A heartwarming collection of classic songs celebrating the beautiful “Fukushima”

Songs woven from Fukushima’s rich land and the warm hearts of the people who live there.

From GReeeeN’s upbeat anthems, to songs that encouraged the Hula Girls, to enka pieces that evoke the port town of Soma, melodies rooted in the region still resonate today.

In this article, we’ve gathered heartwarming classics filled with love for Fukushima.

As you let your mind wander to the land of Fukushima—or think of your own hometown or family living far away—lend an ear to a world of songs brimming with hometown love.

[Songs of Fukushima] Reflecting on Our Hometown | A Heartwarming Collection of Masterpieces Singing the Beauty of “Fukushima” (41–50)

Iwaki City SongFujiyama Ichirō

There was a song about Iwaki City, but it’s unclear how well-known it actually is among people who live there.

The tune has a cheer-song vibe, and judging from the introduction video it features Iwaki’s famous tourist spots and history, but I had to laugh when the Maruto supermarket showed up.

It’s a well-known supermarket locally.

Woman of AizuKitajima Saburō

Set in the steamy hot-spring town of Aizu’s Higashiyama Onsen, this is Saburo ‘Sab-chan,’ famed for his local theme songs.

Unlike his spirited hits like “Matsuri” and “Tairyōbune,” here he passionately sings a poem—sprinkled with famous Aizu landmarks—about an unforgettable woman with a touch of sadness.

Shirakawa Festival SongOugi Yoko

Shirakawa Festival Song · Singer: Ogi Yoko · Shirakawa City, Fukushima Prefecture
Shirakawa Festival SongOugi Yoko

The Kannenbutsu dance of Nedda in Shirakawa City has strong entertainment elements.

It used to be found from around Shirakawa City as far as Tochigi Prefecture, but now it survives only in two places: Nedda and Minamisukama in Tamakawa Village.

In Fukushima Prefecture, there are dances referred to as “nenbutsu odori,” and in the Hamadori region’s Iwaki City there is the “Jangara Nenbutsu Odori.” The songs and dances vary by region, but those are imbued less with entertainment and more with the meaning of consoling the spirits during the first Obon after someone’s passing.

In conclusion

From longing for home and recovery from the earthquake to traditional food culture, these masterpieces are filled with deep love for Fukushima.

Feelings for one’s hometown of Fukushima are at times heartrending and at times powerful, resonating in the hearts of all who listen.

Why not take your time to savor them and let your thoughts drift to the land of Fukushima?