[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.
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[2026] Masterpieces themed on Ibaraki: Introducing songs from local anthems to municipal songs (21–30)
Ibaraki Prefecture Residents’ Songsagawa hajime
This is the prefectural anthem of Ibaraki, established in 1963.
If you’re a resident of the prefecture, you’ve probably heard it at least once.
The lyrics and melody were selected through a public contest.
The song highlights various charms of Ibaraki, but there seem to be opinions that the third verse is not in step with the times.
Itako BoatŌtsuki Miyako
This is a song released in 1964 by enka singer Miyako Ōtsuki, when she was still 18.
It tells of a female boatman who sadly continues to wait for her beloved, who never returns.
The lyrics were written by Tanaka Yuki, known for composing many municipal anthems, and the music was composed by Eiichi Kawakami.
Hometown TSUKUBAShimada Kaho
This is the city song of Tsukuba, a core city for administrative functions located in southern Ibaraki Prefecture, established in 1990.
The lyrics were written by Keisuke Yamakawa, who has provided words for many musicians, and the music was composed by Taimei Ishikawa.
Sung by Kaho Shimada, who is also active as an actress, it’s a refreshing song.
To a shining futureMiyashita Toshiko
Naka City, located in the northern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, was established in 2005 through the merger of Naka Town and Uren Town.
The city song “Toward a Shining Future” was created to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the merger.
This video is from when it was performed at the Naka Sunflower Festival 2013.
JOSO☆HappyHatsune Miku
It’s the image song of Joso City, located in the southwestern part of Ibaraki Prefecture.
The composition was done by the NPO Rainbow, and the lyrics were created based on submissions from citizens.
A matching routine called “JOSO☆Happy Exercises” was also produced, with three versions: standing, seated, and children’s.
Chikusei KoutaŌtani Akira, Nomura Haruko
This is a local song from Chikusei City, located in western Ibaraki Prefecture, released in 2013.
The lyrics are by Katsutoshi Namiki and the music is by Muneo Ebisawa.
The song features Chikusei’s famous sights, festivals, and specialties.
A dance has also been created, and you can learn the choreography by watching this video.
Tokai OndoMiyako Harumi
Tokai Village, located in the northern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, was established in 1955 through the merger of Shakujin Village and Muramatsu Village.
Created in 1980 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the merger, the “Tokai Ondo” is sung by Harumi Miyako.
It is sometimes played at festivals and other events held in the village.