Lovely nursery rhymes, folk songs, and children's songs

[Japanese Folk and Regional Songs] A Collection of Beloved Masterpieces from Across Japan, Brimming with Local Pride

Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.

From north to south, the traditional singing voices passed down across Japan are treasures of each region.

Perhaps you, too, have a memorable song that your grandparents or parents sang to you when you were a child—or one you sang together.

Folk songs, woven with the lives, cultures, and sentiments of their native places, have been sung across generations.

In this article, we introduce a selection of Japanese folk songs that resonate with the heart.

As you listen to the nostalgic melodies of hometowns, let us touch the spirit and landscape of Japan.

[Japanese Folk and Regional Songs] A Collection of Beloved Classics from Across Japan Filled with Local Pride (81–90)

Soran BushiItō Takio

Copy ~ Takio Ito 'Soran Bushi'

Soran BushiItō Takio

Soran-bushi is a folk song from the coast of the Sea of Japan in Hokkaido, originating in the region from the Shakotan Peninsula in Shiribeshi to the Yoichi District.

It is a work song sung as an “Okiage-ondo” while herring fishermen shouted calls to one another as they transferred the herring caught in the nets onto their boats.

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In conclusion

In Japanese folk songs dwell beautiful melodies that soothe our hearts and convey pride in our hometowns.

We should cherish and nurture the appeal of these songs—passed down across generations—even within modern life.

The voices that resonate in our hearts will continue to enrich Japan’s culture.