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?
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A classic song about Kumamoto. The enduring spirit of our hometown (21–30)
You don’t have to go back.Shimazu Aya
It’s said to be a song written as an anthem to cheer on people who leave the countryside for the big city and work hard.
The lyrics, expressing parents in the countryside thinking of their child in the city, really hit home.
Aiya Shimazu, who is from Kumamoto City in Kumamoto Prefecture, sings this enka entirely in the Kumamoto dialect, and you can truly feel the heart in it.
Itsuki LullabyYamaguchi Yoshiko (Ri Kōran)
The folk song Itsuki no Komoriuta has long been loved in Kumamoto.
Not only in Kumamoto—if you’re from Kyushu, I think you’ve probably had your mother or grandmother sing it to you at least once.
Remembering the distant past filled me with a sense of nostalgia.
My hometown is Amakusa.Aikawa Masaki
This is a song by Masaki Aikawa from Kumamoto Prefecture, sung with thoughts of Amakusa.
Listening to it fills your heart with warmth and a sense of nostalgia.
Mr.
Aikawa is said to be an enka singer who got his start on NHK’s Nodo Jiman, and he’s known as the “Shy Prince of the Kayō world,” making him very popular with women.
Kumamoto Surprise!Kumamon
The theme song of Kumamon, Kumamoto Prefecture’s hugely popular yuru-chara (mascot)! His round, cute appearance is beloved not only in Kumamoto but all across Japan.
Despite his slightly chubby figure, he shows off some pretty sharp dance moves.
Adorable, right? “Atozeki” is Kumamoto dialect meaning to close the door.
Samba Otemoyan 2016Suizenji Kiyoko, Korokke, Pochomukin (Gaki Renjā) Kōra Kengo
This song was created to support the recovery from the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake.
It’s a samba-style arrangement of “Otemoyan,” a folk song long beloved in Kumamoto.
The bright, cheerful vibe makes you want to start dancing.
Featuring a star-studded lineup, it’s hugely popular with young people as well.
Passionate Journey in the Land of FireAoi Hiroko
The expansive melody evokes Kumamoto’s magnificent nature and is beautiful.
It conveys a love for one’s hometown.
Aoi Hiroko’s clear, soaring vocals are wonderful as well.
Kumamoto has both mountains and the sea—a place full of their respective charms.
I’d love to listen to this while feeling the natural breeze on my body.
Hometown KumamotoSaida Mami
This song, featuring Mami Saidā—known as the queen of Kumamoto commercial jingles—has an impressively clear and pure singing voice.
Just listening to it brings to mind Kumamoto’s idyllic, serene, and majestic landscapes.
The visuals in the music video also beautifully showcase a variety of Kumamoto’s scenery.