![[2026] Masterpieces Themed on Ibaraki: From Local Songs to Municipal Anthems](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/PLSxp41UUdI/maxresdefault.webp)
[2026] Masterpieces Themed on Ibaraki: From Local Songs to Municipal Anthems
In Ibaraki Prefecture, magnificent waterscapes stretch from the Pacific Ocean to Lake Kasumigaura, complemented by farm produce nurtured by its nature-rich land and historic townscapes—there are countless captivating elements.
Many songs have been composed to celebrate the wonders of Ibaraki, cherished as a source of pride by its residents.
From municipal anthems to beloved local tunes, music themed around Ibaraki is remarkably diverse.
In this article, we introduce a variety of songs that express Ibaraki in many forms—from simple hometown affection to grand hymns to nature.
You might discover a side of “Ibaraki in music” you’ve never known.
[2026] Masterpieces themed around Ibaraki: From local songs to municipal anthems (1–10)
Moon-waiting Waterfall Love SongMizumori Kaori
This is a lyrical enka number performed by Kaori Mizumori, renowned as the “Queen of Local Songs,” set against the power spot Tsukimachi Falls in Daigo, Ibaraki Prefecture.
It portrays a single-minded, heartrending love that longs to meet someone no longer reachable—“even if only in a dream.” Mizumori’s clear, wistful voice blends beautifully with the waterfall’s serene, mystical atmosphere, leaving a deep impression on the listener’s heart.
Listening to this song may make you feel as though you’re standing amid the rich natural scenery of Ibaraki.
Song of Oarai TownBxAxG
This is the official image song of Oarai Town, created by the locally rooted mixture rock band BxAxG.
The vocalist, NAOI, lives in Oarai as a fisherman, and that authentic perspective is a major appeal of the track.
The line “born, raised, and felt in the town of Oarai” conveys a deep affection and pride that goes beyond simple scenic description.
The lyrics, which vividly evoke the warmth and kindness of the townspeople, are truly the everyday life of Oarai.
Carried by an energetic sound, the straightforward feelings it delivers warmly embrace listeners’ hearts—making it a quintessential local anthem overflowing with love for the town.
The Tree of HitachiHide Yuki
Located in the northeastern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, the city of Hitachi is where Hitachi, Ltd., one of Japan’s leading companies, was founded.
The familiar Hitachi Group commercial song is “The Tree of Hitachi.” It has been sung by various artists, and this video features the version by Hide Yuki.
Hospitalityibaraki wakadanna
Ibaraki Wakadanna is a unit formed as part of a tourism promotion for Ibaraki.
Their debut song, “O-MO-TE-NA-SHI,” is, as the title suggests, a welcome song filled with the spirit of hospitality.
Set to a melody reminiscent of nostalgic Showa-era pop, it conveys a warm sentiment toward those visiting Ibaraki.
Because the members actually work in lodging facilities, their message of “We’ve been waiting for you” carries genuine warmth and real persuasive power.
Just by listening, you can almost picture the entrance of an inn welcoming travelers and the gentle smiles of the people of Ibaraki.
This song will surely make you want to set out on a journey to experience the charms of Ibaraki.
Boatman’s BalladSakushi: Noguchi Ujō / Sakkyoku: Nakayama Shinpei
Sentokuwata (Boatman’s Lament) features lyrics by poet Ujō Noguchi from Kitaibaraki City.
It is a poignant masterpiece that reflects Noguchi’s own wandering life.
The image of a boatman who can only surrender himself to the current is layered with feelings of life’s helplessness and impermanence.
The melancholy scene calls to mind the vast winter waterscapes of Noguchi’s beloved Ibaraki—places like Lake Kasumigaura or the Tone River.
The lyrics, which touch each listener’s heartstrings in their own way, merge with the desolate melody to sink deeply into the listener’s chest.
It is a song that quietly questions the sorrows of life across the ages.
Koise RiverYashiro Aki
The Koise River flows through Ibaraki Prefecture and empties into Lake Kasumigaura.
This song is a single by Aki Yashiro released in 1984, and it peaked at number 52 on the Oricon chart.
The lyrics were written by Aki Yashiro herself under the pen name “Megumi Akino.”
Ah, Mito RōshiKitajima Saburō
This is a celebrated song that sings of Mito’s history, delivered with the soul-stirring voice of Saburo Kitajima, a giant of the enka world.
The piece takes the late-Edo “Tengu Party Rebellion” as its theme, depicting the grim resolve and pride of the Mito loyalists who rose out of concern for their country.
Kitajima’s powerful yet heartrending vocals feel as if the spirits of those warriors have possessed him.
Listening to his voice, you can vividly picture their arduous journey toward snowy Tsuruga and the fiery convictions they held close to their hearts.
Created to commemorate the sister-city partnership with Tsuruga City in Fukui Prefecture, this song profoundly conveys the spirit of righteousness that lives on in Ibaraki’s history.
It is a weighty work that will captivate anyone who loves historical narratives and refuse to let go.