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

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

Kumamoto, blessed with rich nature—the majestic mountains of Aso and the beautiful seas of Amakusa.

In this article, we introduce a selection of famous songs that convey its charm through music.

From the nostalgic “Antagata Dokosa,” to the adorable “Kumamoto Surprise!” by the local mascot Kumamon, and even “Aso no Koika,” imbued with hopes for recovery.

Why not lend an ear to these songs filled with the warmth of the Kumamoto dialect and a deep love for the homeland?

Classic songs about Kumamoto: the heart of our hometown passed down in song (11–20)

this townMoritaka Chisato

Chisato Moritaka 'This Town' (from Lucky7 Tour)
this townMoritaka Chisato

This is a song by Chisato Moritaka, who hails from Kumamoto Prefecture, with lyrics she wrote while thinking of her hometown of Kumamoto.

The up-tempo melody and the Kumamoto dialect lines that pop in are incredibly cute.

The slightly bittersweet lyrics that make you reminisce about your hometown also convey just how much she loves Kumamoto.

Come on! Kumamon!Keroponzu, Sukanpo, Takashi Deguchi

It’s a song packed tightly with Kumamoto’s energy and kindness, guaranteed to bring a smile just by listening.

While it’s a rhythmic kids’ song, it’s also a J-pop-leaning pop tune that adults can enjoy comfortably.

The repeated catchy phrases and uplifting calls capture Kumamon’s charming traits—his energy, kindness, and deep love for Kumamoto—and convey them straight from the heart.

Created to celebrate the landmark 10th anniversary of Kumamon’s debut, it was also included on the album “Kumamon 10th ANNIVERSARY CD & PHOTO BOOK ~Happy & Surprise~.” It’s the kind of track that makes you want to dance with your kids and fills you with a happy feeling.

Kumamoto Prefecture Citizens’ SongKumamoto Prefecture

Kumamoto Prefectural Anthem with subtitles and furigana
Kumamoto Prefecture Citizens' Song Kumamoto Prefecture

Released in 1960, this work is Kumamoto Prefecture’s prefectural song, established to coincide with the 15th National Sports Festival held the same year.

Weaving in the majestic landscapes and history of Mount Aso, Kumamoto Castle, and Amakusa, it sings of the fiery spirit of the land and a hope for renewal.

Far from being a stiff ceremonial piece, it is characterized by a dignified melody that stirs the pride of its people.

At the time, it was recorded as an SP record by Nippon Columbia featuring vocals by Hisao Itoh, with a marching arrangement on the B-side.

In addition to being performed at the National Sports Festival, it has long been cherished as the opening theme for Kumamoto Broadcasting and as the hold music for the prefectural office’s telephone system.

After the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes, it drew renewed attention as a symbol of recovery, remaining a beloved song across generations.

Aso Love Songsakushi: Matsumoto Yoshiro / sakkyoku: Mutsu Akira

It’s a travel-evoking piece that brings to mind the morning and evening mists of Aso and the sight of horses crossing mountain passes.

Lyricist Yoshiro Matsumoto drew inspiration from a trip to Aso in 1948 (Showa 23), and composer Akira Mutsu set his gently nostalgic melody to those verses.

The work is said to have first been released as a record in 1961 (Showa 36), after which it was kept alive by tour bus guides and became a beloved departure melody at JR Aso Station.

Following the Kumamoto Earthquake, it also supported people’s spirits as a song of hope for recovery.

It’s a piece that will resonate deeply when you want to etch the emotions of a journey into your heart or be soothed by a melody that touches your heartstrings.

Song of the Land of FireKumamoto Jidō Gasshōdan

Song of the Land of Fire · Kumamoto Children's Choir 'Aso'
Song of the Land of FireKumamoto Jidō Gasshōdan

Commissioned by the Kumamoto Children’s Choir, “Suite for Children’s Chorus: Songs of the Land of Fire,” with lyrics by Akira Mine and music by Hideo Kobayashi.

This suite consists of three pieces—“The Castle Is a Renowned Stronghold,” “Old Tales of Higo,” and “Aso”—each titled to evoke Kumamoto.

Kumamoto Pride SongPi Bou

This piece, which depicts the rich scenery of Kumamoto with a bright, buoyant melody, invites listeners into a cheerful mood.

The somewhat nostalgic sound of folk song blends exquisitely with lively Latin rhythms, evoking the bustle of a Kumamoto festival.

Released as a CD single in July 2013, it stands as a gem of love for Kumamoto that brightens Pi-bō’s early discography.

After the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes, it was sometimes performed with hopes for recovery.

Whether as a companion for a trip to Kumamoto or a moment of homesick reflection, listening to it is sure to warm the heart.

A classic song about Kumamoto. The enduring spirit of our hometown (21–30)

Kumamon UmakamonKeroponzu

This lively song by Keropons is packed with the delicious charms of Kumamoto.

The lyrics feature one Kumamoto specialty after another—like banpeiyu grapefruit, horse sashimi, and ikinari dango—filling both the listener’s heart and stomach.

Debuted at the “Kumamon Birthday Festival” in March 2017, it was included on the DVD “Kumamon Music Video Yoka-mon♪ Selection” in April of the same year, and later on the CD “Kumamon 10th ANNIVERSARY CD & PHOTO BOOK ~Happy & Surprise~” in March 2020.

With adorable, easy-to-copy choreography perfect for children, it’s an ideal song for enjoying and exploring Kumamoto’s food culture.