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

Unyielding FlowerSakura Iori

The Unyielding Flower by Iori Sakura

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

future

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.

Higo Bon SongIshikawa Sayuri

Higo Bon Festival Song ~Flame~

This is a passionate enka number sung by Sayuri Ishikawa, who was born in Kumamoto City, pouring her burning feelings for her hometown into every note.

Her overwhelming vocal prowess seizes listeners’ hearts and draws them instantly into the world of the song.

With lyrics by Hiroo Takada and music by Takashi Miki, it was released as a single in April 2008.

The coupling track features “Yanesen Kouta.” Whether you want to reflect on the spirit of Kumamoto’s landscape or experience a soul-stirring voice, this song is sure to sink deeply into your heart.

Kinyamonya

Kinnya Monya — Kumamoto folk song, composed by Kósçak Yamada — Kumamoto’s song

A cheerful children’s song that has been passed down in Kumamoto since long ago.

Its charm lies in the rhythmic, playful sounds that make speaking it aloud feel like a game in itself.

This piece has been lovingly handed down from generation to generation across the prefecture, starting with Kumamoto City.

In places where children gather and at local festivals, it has likely taken root in people’s hearts as a lively call that brightens the atmosphere.

Don’t overthink it—just surrender to the joy of the sounds and hum along, and a smile will naturally appear.

It’s a song that lets you feel the warm spirit of Kumamoto and the cheerful hearts of the people who live there.

Chiyu-chiyuke (Earth-stamping Song)

Chiyu Chiyuke (Earth-Stamping Song), Kumamoto Prefecture folk song / arranged by Shimizu Fujii

This piece makes you feel as if you’re parading through Kumamoto’s castle town—lively and full of fun.

The lyrics skillfully weave in the Kumamoto dialect, vividly depicting scenes from the region.

Accompanied by the timbre of the shamisen, you can sense the warmth and spirit of the local people and the vibrancy of their daily lives.

Cherished as a teaching piece for Nihon buyo (Japanese dance), it’s perfect for moments when you want to reflect on Kumamoto’s history and culture or when you’re in the mood for bright, uplifting traditional music.

Performed at a Japanese dance recital, it would surely envelop the entire venue in a festive atmosphere and bring smiles to the audience.