[2026] Classic songs themed on Kochi: A roundup of local songs and municipal anthems

Sukumo OndoJōnouchi Sanae

Sukumo Ondo / Sanae Jōnouchi

It is the citizens’ folk song of Sukumo City in the southwestern part of Kochi Prefecture, selected by the Sukumo Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The music was composed by Junzo Nomura and the lyrics were written by Yasuo Ikeuchi.

The singer is Sanae Jōnouchi, an enka singer who was formerly a member of Onyanko Club.

It seems to be played at festivals and other events held in the city.

Life from here on from SukumoSakushi: Urata Fumio / Sakkyoku: Takahashi Nobuhiro

Life from here on from Sukumo

This song was born from the passion of lyricist Fumio Urata and other locals who love their hometown and want to share the charms of Sukumo.

It’s said to have begun with the lament that “there’s nothing that stands out in Sukumo,” yet the lyrics are filled with deep affection for its rich natural beauty.

When you find yourself at a crossroads in life, you may suddenly feel homesick.

In such moments, the phrase “From here on, life dwells in Sukumo” resonates warmly.

The unique perspective of describing Sukumo’s blessings as “natural vitamins” is also appealing.

Its unhurried, pastoral melody feels like nourishment for the soul—an encouraging song full of kindness that gently gives listeners a supportive push.

KatsurahamaMizumori Kaori

Katsurahama - Kaori Mizumori

This is a song by Kaori Mizumori, who is sometimes called the “Queen of Local Songs,” included on her 2006 single Kumano Kodo.

Katsurahama is a beach in Kochi City with a statue of Ryoma Sakamoto.

The CD reached No.

5 on the Oricon chart.

Shimanto no Yado (Inn of Shimanto)Oka Yuuko

Shimanto no Yado (Inn of Shimanto)

This is a renowned song performed by Yuko Oka, known as the “Singing Map of Japan” for her renditions of local songs from across the country, set against the clear currents of Kochi.

Included on a single released in 2016, the piece portrays a quiet love story unfolding at a hidden inn along the banks of the Shimanto River.

The scene evoked by the line “Resting my cheek on your shoulder / a roofed boat on the Shimanto River” is like a painting.

With the lively Yosakoi Festival as a backdrop, time flows gently for just the two of them.

Oka’s richly expressive, sultry voice perfectly matches the poignancy of their secret love and the serene ambiance of Kochi.

It’s a deeply evocative song, as if the heroine’s fleeting wishes melt into the glittering waters of the pure stream.

Tosa manKagami Goro

Tosa man

Veteran enka singer Goro Kagami’s “Tosa no Otoko,” released in 2009, is a quintessential local enka piece that vividly conjures up scenes of Kochi.

Phrases like “the moonlit Yosakoi at Katsurahama” and “holding a red camellia blossom” invite you into the beautiful landscapes of southern Tosa.

Above all, what stirs the heart is the rugged spirit of the Tosa man, belted out in the line “Let the spray and rough waves come crashing!” Kagami’s resonant voice and distinctive phrasing brilliantly embody that indomitable soul.

With pride in his homeland, he faces any hardship with guts.

Just by listening, you can feel the grandeur of Tosa’s nature and the passion of its people rushing into your heart—an empowering song brimming with strength.

TOSA, a city where everyone meets their dreams.Lyrics: Anjo Wada・Chiayu / Composition: Kei Horiuchi

This is the official image song produced to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Tosashi’s incorporation as a city.

The composition and vocals are by singer-songwriter Kei Horiuchi, who also has deep ties to Tosashi.

From the very first lines, you can almost picture the majestic, beautiful nature of Kochi unfolding before your eyes.

The catchy chorus carries a powerful message about passing the spirit of our predecessors on to the future.

Many listeners have likely found courage in this song, which gently encourages us to join hands and move toward a brighter tomorrow.

Lyrics gathered from citizens and the clear voices of elementary school students come together to create a warm piece filled with hometown pride and hope.

A Distant PersonKaientai

A Distant Person

Bakumatsu Youth Graffiti: Sakamoto Ryoma is a drama that aired on Nippon TV, starring Tetsuya Takeda, who is known as a Ryoma enthusiast.

The theme song was performed by Kaientai, with lyrics written by Takeda himself and music composed by Toshio Nakamuta.