Songs of Iwate: The Heart of Our Hometown Passed Down in Song | A Collection of Classics to Enjoy While Thinking of Iwate
With melodies that resonate in the heart, Iwate’s beautiful scenery unfolds before your eyes…
The culture rooted in this land and the lives of its people have become countless beloved songs that are still sung today.
The timeless history of the World Heritage site Hiraizumi, the mystical folklore of Tono, and the warm feelings of the people who live in the region.
The stories woven into each song are like a single painting capturing Iwate’s landscapes through the changing seasons.
In this article, we introduce gems of classic songs brimming with love for Iwate.
Why not let these songs stir your thoughts toward Iwate?
[Songs of Iwate] The Heart of Our Hometown Passed Down in Song | A Collection of Classics to Listen to While Thinking of Iwate (1–10)
Iwate Prefecture Residents’ SongNEW!Iwate-ken
This is a song established in March 1965 to commemorate the completion of the new Iwate Prefectural Government building.
The composition and arrangement were by Yoshinao Nakata, known for works such as “Summer Memories.” The lyrics, selected from a public contest, were written by Koji Tahara and depict Iwate’s vast skies, its storied culture, and hopes for the future.
Its bright, powerful melody stirs a sense of pride in one’s hometown.
At the time it was established, a single was released by Victor featuring performances by Sumito Tachikawa and Kyoko Ito.
Years later, in September 2007, a newly recorded version began airing within the prefectural office to build momentum for Hiraizumi’s World Heritage inscription and the hosting of the National Sports Festival.
Even as times change, it continues to be sung in evolving forms, serving as a symbol of Iwate.
Bring it on! Iwateyoshitaka&eririn
Released in 2000, this piece is a campaign song for Iwate Prefecture, sung by a married couple living in Saitama.
The lyrics include Iwate’s famous spots and notable figures, and it’s said to still be loved by the prefecture’s residents.
With people like Kenji Miyazawa and Takuboku Ishikawa, Iwate has produced many historically renowned individuals.
Flowers will bloom.Sakushi: Iwai Shunji/Sakkyoku: Kanno Yoko
A heartwarming anthem created to support the areas and people affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake.
The delicate melodies woven by Yoko Kanno, who hails from Iwate Prefecture, and the warm tones of the piano imbued with love for her hometown gently resonate with listeners’ hearts.
Released in May 2012 as part of NHK’s Great East Japan Earthquake Project, the song also drew attention for being performed in a relay format by 34 notable figures with ties to the disaster-hit regions.
The lyrics, written from the perspective of those who lost their lives in the quake, deliver a powerful message to those of us who remain.
Offering the courage to overcome sorrow and face forward, this is a song you’ll want to listen to while picturing the landscapes of Iwate.
Alighting in the green townMatsutōya Yumi
This is a piece composed by Yumi Matsutoya based on her impressions when she visited Iwate Prefecture in 1975.
It was later adopted as the image song for Iwate Hanamaki Airport.
Early summer in Iwate was so beautiful that Yuming couldn’t help but write a song—just imagining the scenery makes you want to visit, doesn’t it?
SakuramachiCody Rī (Ri)
This is a gem-like ballad set in Hanamaki City, Iwate Prefecture, resonating with a heartfelt longing for home.
The scenery of Sakuramachi, the hometown of Hibiki Takahashi, is vividly portrayed alongside a beautiful melody.
Originally released in April 2020 as a digital single on the independent label “sakuramachi records,” the track was later included on the album “Seikatsu no News.” It received high praise from music fans, including selection for TOWER RECORDS’ “Tawarekomen.” It’s a song you’ll want to listen to quietly when you wish to reflect on the landscapes etched in your heart and memories with loved ones, even when far from home.
Sanriku ŌfunatoNiinuma Kenji
Located in the southern coastal area of Iwate Prefecture, the city of Ofunato is a scenic tourist destination.
In particular, the Goishi Coast as seen from Goishi Cape—mentioned in the lyrics—is a beautiful shoreline that has been selected for numerous “Top 100” lists, including the 100 Best Beaches in Japan and the 100 Soundscapes of Japan.
This work is cherished by local residents as the image song of Ofunato City, which boasts such a stunning coastline.
With AllLyrics: Masaki Sawauchi · Yumiko Omori / Composition: Mao Yoshida
This is a heartwarming support song from Iwate, imbued with prayers for recovery after the earthquake.
Set to a refreshing melody, it’s a memorable piece that brings feelings of hope and unity to the fore.
First unveiled as the theme song for a disaster recovery charity concert held in Morioka, Iwate Prefecture in November 2016, the song is performed by the “Morioka Kurukoi Family,” featuring members of the local band quad.
In 2020, a newly recorded version was produced as an encouraging message to those facing hardships during the pandemic.
It’s the perfect track for times when you want to feel that warm bond that keeps our hearts together, even when we’re apart.