[Famous] Compilation of Local Commercials from Across Japan
If you live away from your hometown, you’ve probably had this experience while chatting with friends or coworkers: “Huh? You don’t know that commercial?” That surprise.
Something you took for granted watching since you were a kid turns out to have been a local commercial that only aired in that region… it’s pretty startling, isn’t it? In this article, we’ve rounded up famous local commercials from around the country.
You might just encounter that nostalgic clip again.
Be sure to read to the end!
- [Kansai Region Local] A compilation of local commercials broadcast in Kansai
- [Nagoya Commercials] A Collection of Local Commercials from Aichi Prefecture
- Local commercials broadcast in Hokkaido
- Local commercials from Shizuoka Prefecture: from regional chains to souvenir ads.
- [Funny Commercials] Hilarious! Memorable Ads
- Nostalgic commercials from the 2000s: revisiting ads that left a lasting impression
- [Nostalgic Commercials] A compilation of commercials that aired in the Showa era
- [Famous] Compilation of Local Commercials from Across Japan
- Catchy commercial jingles. A roundup of those songs grabbing attention in ads!
- [From timeless classics to the latest hits] A roundup of catchy commercial songs
- Compilation of candy commercials: from the latest to nostalgic ones
- Funny commercial song. Popular funny commercial songs.
- A list of TV commercials from banks nationwide: introducing commercials that convey a sense of security and trust.
[Famous] Compilation of Local Commercials Nationwide (31–40)
Keihan Electric Railway
Speaking of the commercials for the Keihan Railway, which connects Kyoto with Osaka and Shiga, the catchy phrase “Ride Keihan, Okeihan” really stands out, doesn’t it? A woman named something-“keiko” appears and serves as the commercial’s character as the “Nth-generation Okeihan.” In addition to showing the interiors and exteriors of Keihan trains, the videos are characterized by a Kyoto vibe, featuring elements like maiko, Buddhist monks, and charming traditional streetscapes.
Tenri Stamina Ramen
This is a commercial that cheerfully promotes Tenri Stamina Ramen, a dish that could be called a Nara specialty.
It depicts a dining scene on a cruise, and the moment when Stamina Ramen makes an appearance is quite comical.
The content conveys its appeal and sense of excitement, with expressions that look delicious right up to the end and a song throughout that promotes Stamina Ramen.
Tenrikyo
This is a commercial that announces Tenrikyo’s festival day while also dramatically conveying the feelings imbued in it.
The keyword is “beginning,” and it expresses the idea that knowing the beginning connects to the feelings we hold today.
Although the visuals are simple—showing only the Church Headquarters in Nara Prefecture—the combination of BGM and narration seems to emphasize the strength of that sentiment.
Kintetsu Group “I’m Team Nara.” Versionapricot
This commercial warmly highlights the appeal of Kintetsu, which is also useful for sightseeing in Nara, by following Anne’s travel experience.
It portrays her enjoying various places around Nara Prefecture, and the smiles you see there vividly express the many charms packed into Nara.
Further enhancing the warm atmosphere depicted in the visuals is the song “Aoi Kuchibue” by Ohashi Trio.
Its gently played, light rhythm is striking, conveying both the calm and the excitement that come with a journey.
Hatoya
Hatoya Hotel, headquartered in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, became known nationwide thanks to a commercial that began airing in 1961.
This ad uses a light, catchy song to showcase the appeal of Hatoya while evoking the hotel’s history.
The visuals clearly present the exterior, interior, and the people who work there, and the song layered over them heightens the sense of fun.
Lyrics like “If you’re going to Ito, go to Hatoya” have been beloved for many years, conveying a warmth that reflects the hotel’s wish to support the joy of travel.
[Famous] Compilation of Local Commercials Nationwide (41–50)
Jūmangoku Manjū
This is the commercial that helped popularize the name of Jumangoku Manjū, a Japanese confection from Jumangoku Fukusaya, a sweets shop in Gyoda City, Saitama Prefecture.
It starts with shots of natural scenery set to traditional-style background music, then transitions into narration that extols the charms of Jumangoku Manjū.
The phrase used to highlight its appeal—’Umai, umasugiru!’ (‘Delicious—too delicious!’)—is famous, and from there it came to be recognized as a traditional Saitama confection.
Despite having originated after the war, it became established as a tradition, which shows—commercial and all—just how beloved it is.
Higashi-Niigata Driving School
This is a commercial that helped spread the name of Higashi-Niigata Driving School, a driving school located in the Higashi Ward of Niigata City.
The footage evokes the 1980s, featuring a dial-type television and a woman with a Seiko-chan haircut, while describing the facilities of Higashi-Niigata Driving School.
Although the message is a straightforward promotional pitch, it drew attention because it aired for a long time.
It portrays a user-friendly approach, but because everything looks so different from today, the visuals end up eliciting a chuckle.