[Local Songs] Recommended tracks packed with Japan’s nationwide classics and hometown pride
Across Japan, there are many “local songs” created around themes like regional climate and traditions, long-standing customs, hometown pride, and specialty foods.
However, few people are likely familiar with songs from places far from their own living area or hometown.
Some might even have spent years in a region without knowing its local songs at all.
In this article, we’ll introduce some highly impactful, must-hear local songs from across Japan that we hope many of you will get to know.
If it’s a place you’ve visited, try listening while picturing the local scenery.
If it’s somewhere you’ve never been, let the song help you imagine the land and the lives of the people who live there.
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- [Songs of Kagoshima] The heart of our hometown carried on in song | A curated selection of classic tracks that embody Kagoshima
[Local Songs] Recommended Masterpieces and Hometown-Love-Filled Tracks from Across Japan (141–150)
Hometown WindShibata Yasutaka
A gem of a ballad woven from gratitude to one’s hometown and prayers for recovery.
Yasutaka Shibata’s powerful yet warm vocals seep deep into the heart in this masterpiece.
Both a majestic orchestral version and an inviting guitar version are included, each shining with its own charm.
Released in September 2016, the song was created as a support anthem for the recovery of Iwate Prefecture.
That same year, it was performed at the opening ceremony of the “Kibōkyō Iwate National Sports Festival” before Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress at the time.
It’s a piece you’ll want to listen to while envisioning Iwate’s beautiful landscapes.
Whether you live away from your hometown or wish for the recovery of disaster-affected areas, the “hometown breeze” carried by this song is sure to bring comfort to your heart.
A solitary journey through SatsumaMizumori Kaori
This is a song by Kaori Mizumori, known as the “Queen of Local Songs,” that delicately portrays the feelings of a woman traveling alone while gazing at the majestic Sakurajima and the blue gleam of Kinko Bay.
The lyrical melody, strongly reflecting Kagoshima’s climate and history, harmonizes beautifully with lyrics that convey the strength to move forward step by step, as if putting one’s heart in order.
Released by Tokuma Japan Communications in April 2007, the song captured many hearts, winning the Gold Prize at the 49th Japan Record Awards and being performed at the 58th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen.
It is a piece that resonates with those living away from their hometowns and with anyone about to take a new step in life.
Yume ~KIBAIYANSE~ DanceMoyuru Kandō Kagoshima Kokutai Kagoshima Taikai
This is the image song for the Kagoshima National Sports Festival and Kagoshima Games, woven from Kagoshima dialect and a bright melody that stirs the soul.
Featuring lyrics that convey the warmth of Kagoshima-ben—such as “Kibaiyanse,” meaning “Do your best,” and “Tege-tege,” meaning “Take it easy/Don’t sweat the small stuff”—set to a lively Latin-style rhythm.
Written by Midori Karashima, the song was released on October 1, 2022, the same day as the National Sports Festival’s opening ceremony.
As the official theme song, it accompanied a large-scale dance performance at the opening ceremony, moving the audience.
Highly recommended for those who want to experience Kagoshima’s culture and history, or who are looking for a boost of energy.
[Local Songs] Must-listen tracks from across Japan: beloved classics and hometown-pride picks (151–160)
Hometown ~Blue Sky Homeland~Usuzawa Misaki
This is the debut single by a songstress from Iwate, resonating with pure vocals and the breath of folk music.
Released in July 2012, the piece conveys her feelings for her hometown after the earthquake, expressed by 13-year-old Misaki Usuzawa through her crystal-clear voice.
With a grand melodic line that evokes the vast skies and earth of Tohoku, and vocals that deeply touch the heart, it stands as a gem of a song in perfect harmony.
Upon release, it reached No.
1 on the USEN request chart, and she went on to receive numerous honors, including the Japan Record Award’s New Artist prize.
It’s a masterpiece best listened to while picturing the landscapes of Iwate or reflecting on your own spiritual hometown.
Not not, boy, you knowNishiyama Kotone
A lullaby passed down in the Kasari region of Amami Ōshima.
Its distinctive lyrics, written in the Amami dialect, richly express a mother’s love as she soothes her child, bringing a deep sense of peace to listeners.
The modern accompaniment by synthesizer player Ryōzō Itsumi breathes new life into this traditional folk song, which is part of its charm.
The vocals by Ms.
Nishiyama—who won the Kanto-Koshinetsu regional Grand Prix at the 1991 National Children’s Song Singing Competition—bring out the very best in this work.
Recommended for people from Kagoshima who are away from home, those who want to feel the warmth of a lullaby, and anyone interested in experiencing Japan’s traditional culture.
Guribu DanceKagoshima-ken Koushiki Kyarakutā “Guribū” Tēmasongu
The theme song for Kagoshima Prefecture’s official character “Guriboo” features lyrics that reflect the local culture and climate, along with an approachable, catchy melody.
It incorporates Kagoshima dialect, highlights local landmarks and specialty products, and is a song that deepens one’s love for the hometown with every listen.
Released in April 2023, the song has been widely used at events and school functions throughout Kagoshima Prefecture, and in 2024 it received a Special Prize at the Regional Promotion Music Awards.
It has also been adopted as a theme song by local TV and radio programs and is used in tourism campaigns and to promote local specialties.
It’s a perfect piece for people from Kagoshima, those planning a trip there, or anyone interested in Japan’s regional cultures.
Tanegashima Kamone OndoTendō Yoshimi
This is a beloved hit by Yoshimi Tendo that lovingly portrays Tanegashima, a remote island of Kagoshima Prefecture.
Set to a traditional ondo rhythm, it introduces the island’s many charms one after another: the deep blue of the Osumi Strait, the lush green land that hosts a rocket launch site, and Cape Kadokura, known for the arrival of firearms in Japan.
The song is included on the albums “Yoshimi Tendo Single Collection 1985–1991” and “Yoshimi Tendo Concert Selection,” released in June 2024, delighting many fans.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to feel the allure of Kagoshima or who loves local-themed songs.