A classic song about Kumamoto. The enduring spirit of our hometown passed down through song.

Shinonome-bushi

[Folk Song Course] Session 3: Shinonome-bushi [Kumamoto Prefecture Folk Song]

Said to have originated in Kumamoto toward the end of the Meiji era, this piece carries the heartfelt cries of people striving earnestly amid great social upheaval.

The lyrics mention specific place names and convey both the strength of women who sought freedom even in hardship and a vein of satirical expression.

Sung and passed down by many performers—such as Terukiku, Asakusa Yumeko, and Wada Hiroshi and the Mahina Stars—this song may inspire the courage to persevere by letting you feel the spirit of those who endured adversity.

Kumamoto Sawagi Song

Kumamoto Sawagi Song (with lyrics)

It’s a heart-thumping work that makes the lively castle town of Kumamoto and the breath of the people who live there unfold before your eyes.

The lyrics vividly convey the grandeur of Kumamoto Castle, the rich natural surroundings, and the warmth of its people, carried by the pleasant 7-7-7-5 rhythm and the charming lilt of the Kumamoto dialect.

If you want to feel close to Kumamoto’s history and culture, immerse yourself in the beauty of traditional Japanese music, or touch the warm feelings of longing for one’s hometown, why not give this piece a listen? Its upbeat music is sure to set both your heart and body in motion.

Kumamoto Temari Song

Kumamoto Temari Song ① Kumamoto Children's Songs V

It’s a lively hand-clapping song that begins with the question, “Where are you from?” The rhythmic back-and-forth feels like children’s bright voices leaping right out, making it so much fun! The lyrics humorously convey the warm feeling of sharing one’s hometown and the old-time custom of sharing a raccoon dog.

This piece was sung by Keiko Fuji on her 1971 album “Keiko’s Children’s Songs / Keiko Fuji and the Green Men,” and became familiar as a nursery rhyme through the Yakult “Toughman” commercial featuring Shiro Ito.

How about enjoying a hand game again for the first time in a while?

Aoi-san’s Gate (Festival Song)

Ms. Aoi’s Mikado (Festival Chant), Kumamoto Folk Song / Arranged by Shimizu Fujii

A heartfelt traditional melody rooted in the festivals of Kumamoto.

Its simple yet majestic pentatonic tune invites listeners into the joy of celebration.

This piece has been passed down as a “folk song of the Kumamoto region” and is still sometimes performed at local festivals in Kumamoto today.

Piano arrangements and vocal sheet music are also available for purchase, and it is widely known as a song deeply embedded in Kumamoto’s culture.

Those who wish to experience the warmth of Japanese traditional music and the spirit of local culture will find themselves filled with a gentle sense of peace.

Yatsushiro Ozaya-bushi

[Full Lyrics Included] Yatsushiro Ozaya Bushi (Kumamoto Prefecture Folk Song) / Kinbikai / YatsushiroOzayaBushi (Kumamoto Prefecture minyo)

This folk song, handed down in the Yatsushiro area of Kumamoto, is said to have its roots in the work songs of people engaged in land reclamation.

The lively tones woven by shamisen, flute, and drums convey the robust breath of life of those times to the present day.

A cassette tape version featuring Ryoko Soga’s vocals was released in February 2006, and in October 2019 impressionist singer Yoko Aramaki released a cover on her album “Kumamoto Folk Songs Vol.

1 (Hometown of the Heart: Japanese Folk Songs).” The piece remains beloved at regional cultural events today.

The soulful voices of those who survived difficult times will surely resonate in your heart.