[Songs of Kagoshima] The heart of our hometown carried on in song | A curated selection of classic tracks that embody Kagoshima

Bound by fateHajime Chitose

Chitose Hajime “Tied by Fate” (Lyric Video)

A supreme song infused with the soul of Amami Ōshima.

Chitose Hajime, a native of Amami, weaves tenderly with her clear, transparent voice the love for her homeland and the preciousness of the bonds that shape our lives.

Its haunting melody—where distinctive folk inflections blend with modern arrangement—will carry listeners to the beautiful landscapes of Kagoshima.

Released digitally in February 2022, the piece was chosen as the theme song for the PR movie “Life, Laid Bare: Amami Ōshima,” commemorating the island’s inscription as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site.

A heartwarming gem of a ballad, recommended for anyone wishing to feel the ties that connect us to those we hold dear.

Healthy OndoKatte ni Kankō Kyōkai

Kagoshima Prefecture Local Song “Healthy Ondo” / Unofficial Tourism Association

The “Kattemi Kankō Kyōkai” is a song by the “big, meddlesome” duo formed by Jun Miura and Hajime Anzai in 1997, who travel all over Japan and liven things up with unofficial local songs and more.

In Kagoshima, they introduce various things like Sakurajima, Ibusuki, and local foods.

It’s a fun idea, isn’t it?

Kagoshima Prefectural AnthemKagoshimaken

Kagoshima Prefectural Residents’ Song (Choral Version), composed by Kósçak Yamada / arranged by Masashi Ishida (2019)

Composed by the renowned composer Kosaku Yamada, this piece is imbued with the passion of the prefecture’s residents striving for postwar reconstruction.

With lyrics by Toshio Sakaguchi, it weaves hopes for peace and a spirit of friendship together with images of rich natural beauty—such as Sakurajima, the southern blue sky, and the Kuroshio Current.

Characterized by a 6/8 rhythm, it’s a song that conveys an embracing gentleness and a sense of expansiveness.

Established in December 1948, it has been used at official ceremonies like the Prefectural Citizens’ Commendation Ceremony and the Prefectural Sports Festival, and has been sung for generations.

It also serves as the start-of-work chime at the prefectural government building, making it a familiar melody for residents.

It is a work that allows us to feel the sentiments of those who rose from the devastation of the postwar period and sought to build a new homeland.

Come on! Party! Kanoya Kanpachi!gavamentowaakaa

"COME ON! PARTY! Kanoya Amberjack!" Official MV

A pop tune that cheerfully introduces Kanoya City, Kagoshima’s specialty: greater amberjack (kanpachi).

With lively vocals and lyrics brimming with hometown pride, it creatively expresses the deliciousness of kanpachi and the passion of the fishermen, brightening your mood.

Released in 2015 as part of a regional revitalization project, the song has been performed at various events, including “Hakata Kanpachi Jack” in the JR Hakata Station front plaza.

It’s a recommended track for anyone who wants to experience Kagoshima’s climate and culture, is interested in local specialties, or just needs an energy boost.

Kagoshima Prefectural AnthemYamada Kōsaku

Kagoshima Prefectural Residents' Song with subtitles and furigana

This is the official prefectural anthem by Kósçak Yamada, singing of the proud spirit of Satsuma with majestic Sakurajima as its backdrop.

Its solemn yet familiar melody beautifully captures Kagoshima’s nature, history, and culture.

Widely cherished at school events and official ceremonies throughout Kagoshima Prefecture, it has become a symbol of regional identity.

The hometown pride conveyed in the lyrics and the powerful melody resonate deeply with Kagoshima natives living away from home, stirring their feelings for their beloved birthplace.

Yume ~KIBAIYANSE~ DanceMoyuru Kandō Kagoshima Kokutai Kagoshima Taikai

“Yume ~KIBAIYANSE~ Dance” Promotion Movie (Standard Version (Full))

This is the image song for the Kagoshima National Sports Festival and Kagoshima Games, woven from Kagoshima dialect and a bright melody that stirs the soul.

Featuring lyrics that convey the warmth of Kagoshima-ben—such as “Kibaiyanse,” meaning “Do your best,” and “Tege-tege,” meaning “Take it easy/Don’t sweat the small stuff”—set to a lively Latin-style rhythm.

Written by Midori Karashima, the song was released on October 1, 2022, the same day as the National Sports Festival’s opening ceremony.

As the official theme song, it accompanied a large-scale dance performance at the opening ceremony, moving the audience.

Highly recommended for those who want to experience Kagoshima’s culture and history, or who are looking for a boost of energy.

Morning Glory MelodyHatsune Miku

Amami folk song “Asagao-bushi” Hatsune Miku

In the Amami Islands, this song is cherished as a celebratory tune for occasions such as New Year’s and weddings.

The original piece is “Hokorasha-bushi,” which has been passed down in the southern part of Amami Ōshima, and its title means “proud, joyful.” Its resemblance in style to Okinawan celebratory songs like “Umeekaji” and “Okore-bushi” may be because the music traveled from island to island and evolved in its own unique ways.