Miyagi Songs: Popular tracks that celebrate famous sights and specialties, and timeless pieces filled with love for home

Miyagi Prefectural AnthemNEW!Miyagi-ken

Miyagi Prefectural Residents’ Song (1939) <Special Feature for the 150th Anniversary of the Miyagi Prefectural System>

With lyrics by Tokuo Tōyama and music by Fumihiko Fukui, this work is a piece whose lyrics—expressing prayers for peace, the rich nature of the Sendai Plain, and a vow to rebuild industry—resonate alongside a solemn melody.

In September 1948, it was released by Nippon Columbia as an SP record, sung by Ichirō Fujiyama and Aiko Anzai with an arrangement by Yūji Koseki.

Performed at events such as the ceremonies for the 150th anniversary of the prefectural system and lobby concerts, it is an indispensable presence that connects the administration and the citizens, carrying forward the pride of Miyagi Prefecture.

Naruko GorgeMizumori Kaori

Kaori Mizumori “Naruko Gorge” Music Video (released January 19, 2021)

Set against one of Miyagi Prefecture’s most celebrated autumn foliage spots, this song portrays the feelings of a woman traveling alone while holding the memory of her beloved, now departed.

It’s said that Kaori Mizumori’s own profound grief over the loss of her father is reflected in her vocals, yet the piece is more than sorrow.

Many listeners may be moved by the warmth that feels like the deceased watching over her, as well as the sense of hope that looks toward tomorrow.

Released as a single in January 2021, it became her 18th consecutive Top 10 entry on the Oricon charts.

It’s an ideal companion for a journey spent remembering someone dear.

Total good-luck spreeSendai Kamotsu

Good Luck Galore MV

This is a track by Sendai Kamotsu that conjures up a raucously cheerful festival scene, as if the Seven Lucky Gods are throwing a grand feast and scattering good fortune.

Beneath the powerful rock sound and humor, you can feel a warm affection and a desire to energize their hometown, Miyagi.

Released in September 2021 to celebrate the band’s 20th anniversary and the 10th anniversary of their reactivation, the song also landed a tie-in with the sushi chain Sushizanmai.

Watching President Kiyoshi Kimura appear as Ebisu in the music video, you might find yourself overwhelmed by the sheer force of it all—and your worries could just blow away.

Matsushima TravelogueMizumori Kaori

Kaori Mizumori [Matsushima Travelogue] with Lyrics

Set against the beautiful scenery of Matsushima, one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Spots, this travel-themed enka portrays the aching, helpless feelings of a woman journeying alone.

As she gazes at Godaido Hall shrouded in rain, her longing for someone she cannot forget tightens the heart.

Released in April 2010 as a single by Kaori Mizumori, the song reached No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart, attesting to its broad popularity.

Why not listen to it during a quiet moment on your trip, letting yourself sink into a sentimental mood before such a beautiful view?

Ah, Miyagi Prefecture – Chapter 2Yoshikawa Danjirō

Ah, Miyagi Prefecture – Chapter 2 [Lyrics, Composition, Vocals] Danjirō Yoshikawa [Arrangement] Takehide Hayashi — Miyagi Prefecture, Japanese hit song

Wishing for recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake, this is a support song into which Danjuro Yoshikawa poured his love for his hometown.

Created in response to fans’ requests as a new version of a classic originally released in April 1976, it was unveiled in June 2011.

Featuring Miyagi specialties and landmarks such as rice and Matsushima, the piece radiates local pride.

It will surely resonate with those connected to Miyagi, and its warmth and strength gently encourage anyone facing hardship.

Shining HometownMiyagi Kenminka

Miyagi Prefectural Anthem “Shining Homeland” with Subtitles and Furigana

This song celebrates the strong will of the people toward postwar reconstruction and their deep love for their homeland.

Alongside prayers for a peaceful era, it portrays the beautiful scenery of the Sendai Plain, the bountiful gifts of the sea and mountains, and the hope of building a future culture.

Originally released as an SP record in September 1948, it was performed by a middle school choir at the 150th anniversary ceremony of Miyagi Prefecture in 2022—the first time in 21 years—bringing it back into the spotlight.

For those who wish to connect with Miyagi’s history and the sentiments of its people, its powerful melody will surely resonate deeply.

Beef tongue wraptantarou

Beef tongue wrap

This piece was created as an image song for Sendai’s famous gyūtan (beef tongue).

Since the lyrics are rapped, it’s easy to let it wash over you if you’re not paying attention, but the puns and even tips like “heat it up in the microwave and dig in” make the uniquely quirky lyrics really stick with you.