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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 that sing of Kumamoto: the enduring heart of our hometown (31–40)

Shiranui Love TaleYashiro Aki

This is a song by Aki Yashiro that passionately sings about her hometown of Kumamoto.

Released as a single in March 2005, it is set in the Land of Fire and portrays a woman’s helpless feelings as she clings to an unforgettable lover while longing to return to her hometown, “Shiranui.” Yashiro’s richly expressive vocals and the warm Kumamoto dialect woven into the lyrics deeply resonate with listeners.

The song later became the title track of the best-of album “Aki Yashiro Complete Collection: Shiranui Jowa,” and is one of her signature pieces.

It gently speaks to those who carry a yearning for their hometown or a bittersweet, unrequited love.

Longing: The Woman of AmakusaYamaoka Koji

Yearning: The Woman of Amakusa — Koji Yamaoka
Longing: The Woman of AmakusaYamaoka Koji

It’s a famous song by Shinichi Mori, but it has been covered by various artists such as Hiroshi Itsuki and Koji Yamaoka.

This is Yamaoka’s version.

It beautifully captures, alongside the scenery of Amakusa, the pain of a man and woman’s love that is destined to end someday.

Amakusa is an island where happiness shines.Fuchigami Masayo

Amakusa: The Island Where Happiness Shines / Masayo Fuchigami
Amakusa is an island where happiness shines.Fuchigami Masayo

A song created as a cheer anthem to support registering the group of Christian churches in Kumamoto and Amakusa as a World Heritage site.

A fusion of enka and a Christian worldview! It’s unexpected, but it sounds like a great match.

Masayo Fuchigami’s lustrous, transparent vocals are superb and seem to create a unique atmosphere.

Kin’nyomunyoHonjō Hidemi

It’s a folk song from Kumamoto.

The shamisen’s captivating sound and the woman’s clear, pure singing are wonderful.

The word “Kinnyo-mnyo” in the title has no particular meaning; it’s meant to be enjoyed for its sound.

The lyrics reference performances related to Kumamoto, such as kabuki and joruri.

Tokimeite KumamotoSoga Mamako

Kumamoto City Waku-Waku Song “Tokimeite Kumamoto” by Mimako Soga
Tokimeite KumamotoSoga Mamako

This is a community favorite song created to commemorate the 120th anniversary of Kumamoto City’s incorporation.

The gentle, bright, and grand melody is wonderful.

It’s a song whose lyrics convey the grandeur of Kumamoto’s nature and the spirit of everyone—young and old, men and women—coming together to energize our hometown.

A classic song about Kumamoto. The enduring spirit of our hometown, passed down through generations (41–50)

Unyielding FlowerSakura Iori

The Unyielding Flower by Iori Sakura
Unyielding FlowerSakura Iori

Blending the gentle tones of piano and acoustic guitar with Iori Sakura’s powerful yet warm vocals, this is an encouraging song that quietly supports the listener’s heart.

Words woven from Sakura’s own experiences sink deeply into the listener’s soul.

Created around 2016 with hopes for recovery from the Kumamoto earthquakes, the piece continues to uplift the people of Kumamoto, even being featured in the local radio program “RKK Radio Lift Me UP! Vol.9” in May 2023.

It’s a song that offers quiet encouragement when your heart feels close to breaking.

futureMoritaka Chisato

This is a song written and composed by Chisato Moritaka, imbued with a gentle gaze toward her hometown of Kumamoto.

Sung over a mellow melody are the bittersweet feelings that overlap with scenes of rain, and the hope for the future that lies beyond them.

Included as the B-side to the single “SWEET CANDY,” released in June 1997, the song was later chosen as the image song for the 1999 ‘Kumamoto Future National Sports Festival,’ becoming beloved by many.

When you reach a turning point in life and want to pause for a moment, or when you need the courage to take a new step forward, this song will give you a gentle push.

It resonates deeply, echoing the feelings you hold for your hometown.