![[Hyogo Songs] A Collection of Local and Love Songs Set in Hyogo](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/Wq9hC_3DQXs/maxresdefault.webp)
[Hyogo Songs] A Collection of Local and Love Songs Set in Hyogo
What comes to mind when you hear “Hyogo”? For many, it’s likely a stream of charming images: stylish cityscapes, delicious cuisine, renowned hot spring resorts, rich arts and culture, and more.
In this article, we’ve gathered songs set in Hyogo Prefecture.
From enka that sings of bittersweet romances, to local tunes beloved by residents, to pieces that supported post-earthquake recovery—enjoy to your heart’s content these “Songs of Hyogo,” performed by artists from Hyogo and musicians who love the region!
[Songs of Hyogo] A collection of local songs and love songs set in Hyogo (1–10)
So that (I/We) can carry/bring happinessKawashima Ai
“Shiawase Hakoberu You ni” (“To Carry Happiness”) is a song composed by a man named Makoto Usui after the Great Hanshin Earthquake, wishing for Kobe’s recovery.
It was originally written as a choral piece, but it is also known for being covered by singer-songwriter Ai Kawashima.
Because it has been sung not only in Kobe but also after the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Kumamoto earthquakes, many of you have probably heard it.
Yi-Er Fan ClubMikito P
This song is included on the compilation album “EXIT TUNES PRESENTS Vocalosensation feat.
Hatsune Miku,” released in February 2013.
The work is themed around Nankinmachi, the Chinatown located in Kobe.
Bluermilet
This is a track included on singer-songwriter milet’s single “hanataba,” released in June 2024, which was selected as the official theme song for Kobe Suma Sea World.
Centered on a world “bluer than blue,” the lyrics portray the bond of life between humans and marine creatures, drawing listeners into a grand and mystical realm.
The anecdote of milet herself forming a connection with an orca adds depth to the dreamlike soundscape.
Listening to this piece as you explore an aquarium might let you perceive a different kind of brilliance in life than usual.
Et cetera related to the seashorePUFFY
A single by PUFFY released in April 1997.
It reached number one on the Oricon weekly chart and became one of PUFFY’s signature songs.
Only during the winter season, at Kinosaki Onsen Station in Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture, the song is reportedly used as the departure melody, in reference to the local specialty, crab.
Hyogo Prefectural SongNEW!Hyōgo-ken
This song was established by Hyogo Prefecture in May 1947, shortly after the war, to commemorate the enforcement of the new Constitution.
In fact, it’s a historical work created to celebrate the dawn of a new era.
The lyrics were written by Takeshi Noguchi, selected through a public contest, and the music was composed by Kiyoshi Nobutoki.
It is characterized by a solemn tone imbued with hopes for peace and democracy.
Records show that it was performed as a chorus at the commemorative ceremony of the time, conveying the passion of people moving toward reconstruction.
However, in the years that followed, opportunities to sing it in official settings dwindled, and it came to be treated as if it did not exist.
In recent years, though, materials have been reexamined and its historical value has once again drawn attention.
Hymn to Kobe
When it comes to an anthem that stirs the soul of Kobe, this song is indispensable.
It’s a Vissel Kobe supporters’ chant set to the melody of a French chanson, with original lyrics created by the fans.
Written in 2005, ten years after the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, it intertwines prayers for the city’s revival with devotion to the club.
The lyrics voice a powerful resolve to overcome hardship together and protect the beautiful port city, moving all who hear it.
It’s a classic filled with the bond between the city and its people—one that everyone who loves Kobe should hear.
Nun’s SongTHUNDER
A heartwarming reggae song that conveys love and pride for one’s hometown straight from the heart.
Created by THUNDER, an artist from Amagasaki City in Hyogo Prefecture, the track reflects on his roots and is included on his independently produced debut album Raion, released in 2011.
The song also drew attention for selling out 4,000 copies purely through word of mouth.
Memories of the town where he spent his childhood, recollections of the earthquake, and scenes of bustling shopping streets are portrayed with care over a warm, comforting sound.
It’s a piece that will quietly resonate with those who want to look back on where they come from, as well as with people working hard away from home.