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

Cape Erimoyoshida takurou

Cape Erimo (from the Tsumagoi Concert)

I still feel it fits the lyrics better when performed as folk.

The lyrics are compelling, and I can sense the feelings—and even the lives—of the people who live in this town.

Every word resonates with deep meaning.

There’s a depth that goes beyond off-the-cuff phrasing.

Flying to IstanbulShōno Mayoyo

Fly to Istanbul ~Live Sound~ Mayoyo Shono

I was once again made aware of a city that hadn’t left much of an impression on me.

It feels light and I think it’s a stylish song too.

Even a breakup song brings up Istanbul, which felt very fresh at first.

The wordplay makes it feel like a foreign song and that’s interesting.

Mayoyo-san’s crisp, clean impression is nice as well.

Azusa No. 2karyūdō

Azusa Nigo (2015 Remaster)

It’s a touching song about getting on a train bound for Shinano and trying to shake off a past love.

The harmonies by Kariudo are, as you’d expect from brothers, wonderful.

But it’s actually about heading toward a new love, isn’t it? It might not be the same as being fickle, but it’s a bit surprising.

Hakata MirenNoguchi Goro

Goro Noguchi – Hakata Miren

So it was full-on enka, huh? Since it was called a debut song, she must have been in her teens, skilfully pulling off a slightly mature song.

It made me once again appreciate how remarkable her vocal ability has been up to today.

It seems she hasn’t sung enka since then, but I felt that she excels both in pop and in enka.

Cape TappiMizumori Kaori

Kaori Mizumori [Cape Tappi] with Lyrics – Lyrics by Koyomi Asa / Music by Hideo Mizumori

This is a celebrated song by Kaori Mizumori that overlays the poignant emotions of a heartbroken woman onto the desolate natural scenery of Aomori.

Released as a single in October 1999, it was also included on the album “Kaori Mizumori Complete Collection ~Tappi Misaki~.” Set at the northernmost tip of the Tsugaru Peninsula, the piece powerfully conveys the sorrow of a protagonist traveling alone while carrying feelings for someone she cannot forget.

Give it a listen when you want to immerse yourself in the travel atmosphere of Japan’s northern regions and the lyrical storytelling unique to enka.

“Mijumarism” — Mie Prefecture Version

[Official Pokémon] Oshawott’s Song “Mijumarhythm” – Mie Prefecture Version – Pokémon Kids TV [Children’s Song]

Cuing seaside, mountain, and village scenes of Mie, a bouncing beat and claps invite you into a pop groove.

Repeated wordplay and call-and-response design create a friendly feel, as the song tells a guide’s-eye story that leads listeners to local landmarks.

Pride in one’s hometown and the joy of dancing together breathe through its light melody.

Released in July 2023 as an official video within a prefectural regional-collaboration project.

The original track is a regional version based on a pre-release from March 2023, tied to Mijumaru-themed tourism initiatives and resonating with on-site plans like a wrapped limited express debuting in 2025.

Perfect for family drives, outings, and dances at schools or events.

It’s also great for setting the mood before a trip to Mie—sure to spark your excitement.

The wind is future-colored.

The wind is future-colored.

This song captivates with a hopeful sound that shimmers like Saga’s lush greenery under an endlessly blue sky.

Set to a refreshing, pure melody, it portrays the vitality of nature and the figure of someone taking a step toward the future.

Celebrating the warmth of human connections and the beauty of believing in your dreams and moving forward, this piece will gently illuminate the listener’s heart.

With additional lyrics and composition/arrangement by Kazuo Zaitsu, it was produced in April 1993 as an image song for Saga Prefecture.

Listen to it on a morning when you’re beginning a new challenge or while driving through Saga’s beautiful scenery, and you’ll surely picture a bright future in your heart!