[Local Songs] Recommended tracks packed with Japan’s nationwide classics and hometown pride

Sada Misaki (Cape Sada)Toba Ichirō

Sadamisaki — Ichirō Toba

A powerful paean to Sada Misaki in Ehime Prefecture by Ichiro Toba, a “man of the sea” with a background as a former fisherman.

The image of fishermen pursuing their dreams in the harsh Bungo Channel is vividly portrayed through Toba’s soul-stirring vocals.

It seems to boldly proclaim that the pride of those who live at Japan’s westernmost edge is so noble that even Mount Fuji, the nation’s highest peak, would pay it respect.

This song will set the hearts of all who love their hometowns ablaze—not only those connected to Ehime.

A masterpiece infused with the majestic scenery of Sada Misaki and the indomitable spirit of the people who live there.

Ferry to MatsuyamaMurashita Kōzō

Kozo Murashita - Ferry to Matsuyama

It’s a song deeply connected to Ehime, sung by Kozo Murashita—known for classics like “Hatsukoi.” Set on a ferry traveling from Hiroshima to Matsuyama, it paints a heart-wrenching scene of parting.

The beautiful Seto Inland Sea bathed in the evening sun seems only to accentuate the protagonist’s helpless sorrow.

In the wonderful lyrics, woven by Murashita’s tender, wistful voice, one can’t help but feel profound love.

Listening to this bittersweet melody while on a sea voyage would surely etch the scenery of the Seto Inland Sea even more deeply into your heart.

Shimanto Youth StoryReemondo Matsuya

Shiman-to Youth Story MV short ver.

This is a song by singer-songwriter Raymond Matsuya, known as the “Bard of Love.” Set against the majestic Shimanto River, the pride of Kochi, it portrays a mature coming-of-age love story that looks back on a romance from days gone by.

Blending the emotion of enka with the approachable warmth of folk, this kayō-folk piece features gentle acoustic tones that resonate deeply.

The scene of layering faint memories of first love over the shimmering flow of the river is both sweet and achingly bittersweet.

Now that we’re adults, the youthful days that shine alongside the scenery of our hometown feel all the more precious.

Many listeners may find that, when they hear this song, their own “youth story,” carefully tucked away in their hearts, suddenly springs back to life.

Hiroshi’s proud hometown, ze yo!Miyama Hiroshi

Hiroshi’s proud hometown, ze yo!

This is a song by Hiroshi Miyama, a native of Nankoku City in Kochi Prefecture, packed to the brim with love for his hometown.

As a tourism ambassador, his signature spirit of service shines through, making it a deeply satisfying local anthem.

The lyrics roll out one after another—from famous landmarks like Harimaya Bridge and Hirome Market to regional specialties like first-skipjack bonito and gamecock hot pot—turning the piece into a musical journey through Kochi’s charms.

Sung proudly in his warm “vitamin voice,” declaring “shoeiyo (amazing!),” you can feel his deep affection for where he’s from.

The comfortable enka melody combined with the rustic cadence of the Tosa dialect conjures vivid images of Tosa’s grand nature and the heartfelt warmth of its people.

The Great Cedar of SugiMiyama Hiroshi

Hiroshi Miyama “The Giant Sugi of Sugi” MUSIC VIDEO

This song was performed by Hiroshi Miyama, the “Vitamin Voice” born in Kochi, as a heartfelt tribute to his hometown.

Composed by his mentor, Masamasa Nakamura, it’s a grand life-themed enka inspired by the three-thousand-year-old ‘Great Cedar of Sugi’ towering over his local town of Ōtoyo.

The anecdote that Miyama himself piloted a drone to film the music video also speaks volumes about his extraordinary love for his hometown.

He overlays his own life onto the great cedar that has “withstood blizzards, storms, and drought,” and vows to show a “proud, shining figure” to someone dear to him.

That straightforward resolve blends perfectly with Miyama’s warm vocals, gently infusing listeners with the strength to face tomorrow.

Typhoon of LoveKatte ni Kankō Kyōkai

Kochi Prefecture Local Song “Love Typhoon” / Unofficial Tourism Association

A local song for Kochi released in 2004 by Miura Jun and Anzai Hajime’s duo, the Katte ni Kanko Kyokai (Self-Appointed Tourism Association).

It’s a playful number produced in their “Ryokaroku” style—improvised recordings done at inns.

From pounding out ‘katsuo no tataki’ to getting swept up in a ‘typhoon of love’ the moment they spot whales at Cape Muroto, the lyrics comically portray the start of an irresistible romance against the backdrop of Kochi’s famous sights, and just listening fills you with excitement! “Whatever happens, happens!” You can feel the protagonist’s mood in this passionate and humorous track.

It’s the kind of song that makes you want to set off on a trip, as if you can feel the Tosa breeze on your skin.

Shimanto no Yado (Inn of Shimanto)Oka Yuuko

Shimanto no Yado (Inn of Shimanto)

This is a renowned song performed by Yuko Oka, known as the “Singing Map of Japan” for her renditions of local songs from across the country, set against the clear currents of Kochi.

Included on a single released in 2016, the piece portrays a quiet love story unfolding at a hidden inn along the banks of the Shimanto River.

The scene evoked by the line “Resting my cheek on your shoulder / a roofed boat on the Shimanto River” is like a painting.

With the lively Yosakoi Festival as a backdrop, time flows gently for just the two of them.

Oka’s richly expressive, sultry voice perfectly matches the poignancy of their secret love and the serene ambiance of Kochi.

It’s a deeply evocative song, as if the heroine’s fleeting wishes melt into the glittering waters of the pure stream.