[2026] Masterpieces that sing of Hokkaido: the heart of a beloved homeland passed down in song
Hokkaido, a land surrounded by grand, beautiful, and sometimes harsh nature, has often been featured as the setting in songs—especially kayōkyoku and enka—from the Showa era to the present day.
Artists and bands from Hokkaido sometimes write songs about their own hometown, and there are countless masterpieces themed around the northern land.
This time, we’ll introduce a selection of songs connected to Hokkaido, regardless of genre or era.
From famous hits to hidden gems, give them a listen while picturing the scenery of Hokkaido!
- [Folk and Children's Songs of Hokkaido] Songs of Hokkaido that continue to be loved across generations
- [Local Songs] Recommended tracks packed with Japan’s nationwide classics and hometown pride
- A roundup of regional enka songs: classic hits that feature places from all across Japan in their lyrics.
- [Hometown Songs] A curated selection of popular Japanese tracks that fill your heart with nostalgia
- [Song of Osaka] A selection of passionate, warm-hearted Osaka tunes
- [Songs of Aomori] A collection of local songs depicting the grandeur of nature and the warmth of its people.
- Chiba Songs: A comprehensive introduction, from famous tunes filled with hometown love to local theme songs
- [2026] Enka Spring Songs to Savor: A Collection of Classic Enka That Evokes the Japanese Spring
- [Japanese School Anthems] A Hot Topic at Koshien! From Beautiful Anthems to Unique Ones, All Introduced at Once
- Winter songs you'll want to listen to in the cold season! Recommended for the yutori generation
- [For Seniors] Heartwarming Winter Classics: A Cozy Moment with Nostalgic Kayōkyoku and Traditional Songs
- A classic song that sings of Nagasaki: the enduring heart of our hometown
- [2026] A Collection of Classic Enka Songs Depicting Winter Scenery
[2026] Masterpieces that sing of Hokkaido: The enduring heart of our homeland (21–30)
Cape SoyaDa Kāpo
Soya Cape, sung by the mixed-gender folk duo Da Capo.
The original song was released in 1972 by Mari Kuroki.
Cape Soya is the northernmost cape in Wakkanai City, located in northern Hokkaido.
This anthem brims with local pride, weaving into its lyrics scenes of the drift ice once visible from Cape Soya and the beauty of “flower makeup.” When you travel to Wakkanai, a place where unique culture still remains, try looking for the music monument at Cape Soya engraved with the lyrics of Soya Cape!
The City of Love, SapporoIshihara Yūjirō
The work “Koi no Machi Sapporo” by Yujiro Ishihara, a star who symbolizes the Showa era.
It was released in 1972 to help build excitement for the Sapporo Olympics held the same year.
From the very first lines, the cityscape of Sapporo spreads out before you, with the Clock Tower at its heart.
The wistful mood of the melody adds depth to the song, making it a perfect track to listen to at night.
At the Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill in Sapporo, there’s a monument inscribed with lyrics from “Koi no Machi Sapporo” standing slightly in front of the famous statue of Dr.
Clark—don’t forget to take a commemorative photo there!
[2026] Masterpieces that sing of Hokkaido: The heart of our hometown passed down in song (31–40)
Soran-bushi (from “Northward,” Four Japanese Folk Songs for Mixed Chorus and Piano)Matsushita Kou
A work spun by Ko Matsushita—renowned as a composer of choral music—based on a Hokkaido folk song is included as the fourth piece of Four Japanese Folk Songs “Kita e” for mixed chorus and piano.
While making use of the original song’s herring-fishery shouts and its powerful spirit that faces rough seas, it fuses jazz tension chords and rock upbeats into a contemporary sound.
The score was published by Ongaku no Tomo Sha in November 1997.
Frequently chosen for choral concerts and competitions, this piece, which expresses the breath of seafaring men through chorus, is perfect for occasions where you want to present a performance with unified strength.
Misty Lake MashuFuse Akira
This is Akira Fuse’s fifth single, released in 1966.
Set at Lake Mashu, known as Japan’s clearest lake, the song conjures up a mystical scene shrouded in mist.
Its success reportedly drew many tourists to Lake Mashu.
It is widely known as a local song of Teshikaga in Kawakami District, Hokkaido (the eastern Hokkaido region).
The End of the JourneyAoki Kiyoshi
It’s a famous song that sings of Hokkaido’s beautiful nature and the hearts of its people.
Kiyoshi Aoki’s warm vocals evoke the vast land and its rich natural beauty.
Released in 1977, the piece has long been cherished as the song of the Hokkaido youth hostels.
The music video features scenes of Hokkaido from the 1970s to the early 1980s, stirring a sense of nostalgia.
Its lyrics, reflecting on the end of a journey, prompt deep thoughts about the meaning of life, loneliness, and living in harmony with nature.
It’s perfect as background music when traveling through Hokkaido and is also recommended for those who want to feel a sense of local pride.
Each listen lets the charm of Hokkaido seep into your heart—an uplifting, heartwarming track.
Hokkaido Shararakantorī musume.
Country Musume, centered around Suzune Toda from Sapporo, Hokkaido.
There was also a period when other Hokkaido-born members, such as Mai Satoda, were part of the group.
Their third release, “Hokkaido Sharara,” as the title suggests, repeatedly features the word “Hokkaido” throughout the song and is truly a track about love in Hokkaido.
Its refreshing sound makes it perfect for driving around the region.
In addition, Country Musume’s discography includes their debut single “Futari no Hokkaido,” so be sure to give that a listen as well!
Travel Sentiments of Iwaobetsusatou muneyuki
Set in Shiretoko, Hokkaido, this is a gently sung ballad.
Muneyuki Sato’s tender voice seeps into the heart.
Unlike the image of vast open land, it’s a travel song that evokes the cold, lonely north.
Its wistful sound makes you want to listen to it alone.
