[Heart to the Tropics] Japanese songs that evoke Hawaiian landscapes
Blue seas and white sandy beaches, palm trees shimmering in the sunlight.
Japanese music themed around Hawaii, that everlasting tropical paradise, overflows with a special charm.
In songs by a wide range of artists—like AAA, bird, and BEGIN—you can feel a gentle longing for the islands and the spirit of travel.
From Eurobeat collaborations with Disney to sophisticated nighttime performances with an adult mood.
Why not listen to Japan’s Hawaii songs and let the wings of music carry you to the warm skies of Hawaii?
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Spirit to the Tropics: Japanese Songs that Evoke Hawaiian Scenery (21–30)
King Kamehameha of the Southern IslandsHorie Mitsuko
A children’s song that everyone knows.
It seems the person really existed, and they’re so famous there’s even a statue of them.
The song isn’t a cover or anything—it’s an original—but it remains a mystery who decided to turn it into a children’s song and what the concept was.
Natsumatope＝LOVE
This pop track by =LOVE is packed with the shimmer and energy of summer, evoking the tropical vibes of Hawaii.
Its refreshing melody and bright rhythm, which use onomatopoeia to paint summer scenes, vividly depict blue seas and white sandy beaches.
Just by listening, your senses are awakened and you’ll feel a rush as if you’ve departed for a year-round paradise.
Released in July 2023, the song became a hit, taking the top spot on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
The single also includes the collaboration track with sister group ≒JOY, “Oozora, Byun to,” and their joint event “Ikonoi Joy 2023” held the same month drew a total of 20,000 attendees.
This work is perfect for anyone longing for the tropics or a travel mood, and makes an ideal companion for midsummer drives or seaside outings.
It’s also the perfect song for those who want to create sweet, bittersweet summer memories.
[Heart to the Tropics] Japanese Songs that Evoke Hawaiian Scenery (31–40)
HolidayNishino Kana
A track with an impressive, breezy sound that evokes the cheerful spirit of summer.
Released in July 2016, Kana Nishino’s song is brimming with a tropical vibe that brings to mind a beach in the islands.
You can just picture breaking free from busy days and playing to your heart’s content on white sands.
The song is included on the album “Just LOVE.” With its poppy melody and upbeat lyrics, it’s a feel-good track that lifts listeners’ spirits.
It heightens that resort travel mood and helps you relax and relieve stress!
Aloha AkuaSugiyama Kiyotaka
Kiyotaka Sugiyama himself has actually moved to Hawaii, and although he had a strong image of the sea and summer since the Omega Tribe days, you can now feel even more of the aloha shirts and Hawaiian lifestyle.
It’s really enviable to be able to create songs like that so naturally.
HAWAIIKONISHIKI
This song is rich with emotion and lets you feel the Hawaiian breeze.
Released in July 2003 by former ōzeki KONISHIKI, it’s a heartwarming piece filled with deep love for his Hawaiian roots.
The soothing tones of Hawaiian instruments like the ukulele and slack-key guitar, combined with KONISHIKI’s uniquely warm vocals, unfold gentle tropical scenery before your eyes.
Featured on the album “Nanakuli,” this gem captures his expression of Hawaii’s nature, culture, and the warmth of its people.
It’s perfect for boosting pre-trip excitement or for moments when you want a brief escape from everyday life.
KONISHIKI has also served as a bridge between Japan and Hawaii, launching his own label, H-POP Label, in 2007.
HAWAIIAN LOVE SONGInoue Yosui
A hidden gem by Yosui Inoue that gently carries the breeze of the tropics is the B-side to his 1998 single “TEENAGER.” Dedicated to Queen Liliʻuokalani, the last monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom, the song is marked by beautiful imagery—long necklaces and the southern seas.
Calm yet suffused with a wistful yearning for a lost kingdom, it is a jewel-like ballad.
It was included in the 2001 remastered CD album ReMASTER on “extra-1,” earning renewed acclaim.
Arranged by Masaru Hoshi, whose work brilliantly heightens the emotion, and unfolding within Inoue’s uniquely poetic world, this track is perfect for when you want to dream of the tropics—or to lift your spirits before a trip to Hawaii.
Begin on the BeachMaki Yufuko
Yufuko Maki’s music, which evokes the breeze of a southern paradise, invites you into the heartwarming skies of Hawaii.
Blending a melody that conjures seaside scenes with lyrics painting a poignant love, this work—released in May 2005—strikes a perfect balance.
While honoring the traditions of enka, it incorporates modern arrangements, making it beloved by listeners across generations.
Maki’s emotionally rich vocals and the song’s distinctive worldview resonate deeply with audiences.
It has received frequent airplay on radio and music programs and is also a popular choice for karaoke.
It’s the perfect track for when you want to dream of tropical landscapes or seek a soothing touch for the heart.