A classic song that sings of Nagasaki: the enduring heart of our hometown
Nagasaki Prefecture, located at the western edge of Kyushu, has the most islands of any prefecture in Japan.
Some of you may feel it often comes up in Japanese history classes.
It’s a region with a rich history, where many elements of Western culture spread throughout Japan via this very gateway.
In this article, I’ve compiled a selection of Japanese songs themed around Nagasaki.
Laying them out side by side, I feel “diverse” is the perfect word—there’s a wide range of genres and tracks represented.
I hope this helps you rediscover the charm of Nagasaki!
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A famous song about Nagasaki. The enduring spirit of our hometown, passed down through song (1–10)
Dejima Storyshake
This is a Nagasaki song that originated from the NHK program “Oi, Nippon — Thoroughly, Nagasaki.” It was created by the golden duo of Yasushi Akimoto and Tsugutoshi Goto, and is sung by the girls’ duo shake, chosen through an audition.
Nagasaki Holland Villagesaakasu
When you think of Nagasaki, isn’t the former Nagasaki Holland Village the first thing that comes to mind for many people? Although it closed on October 21, 2001, it was rebuilt in 2017 and is still operating today.
Its theme song, “Nagasaki Holland Village,” is performed by the four-member vocal group Circus.
You might recognize it from the commercials.
The beauty of the harmonies is striking, and just following the lyrics lets you feel the exotic atmosphere of Nagasaki.
It might even make you want to visit in person.
Spirit Boat (Shoro Nagashi)sadamasashi
Shōrō-nagashi is a traditional event held during Obon in Nagasaki Prefecture, where the spirits of the deceased are placed on boats and sent off.
The classic song “Shōrō-nagashi,” released in 1974 by Masashi Sada as the folk duo Grape, is about this event.
Incidentally, contrary to the song’s calm and gentle image, the actual Shōrō-nagashi is a firecracker-filled affair where earplugs are practically essential.
Masterpieces that sing of Nagasaki: the enduring spirit of our hometown (11–20)
South wind
This is the Nagasaki Prefectural anthem, “Minami no Kaze” (Southern Breeze).
It was recorded in 1961 and sung by Akira Wakayama and Matsu’e Matsumoto, known as the first “Columbia Rose.” The lyrics are striking for how they capture Nagasaki’s distinctive features: its rich natural beauty, the shipbuilding technology that has flourished by the sea, and a deep respect for the preciousness of life.
Listening to it somehow makes your heart feel open and at ease.
It’s a work that stirs nostalgia not only for residents of Nagasaki Prefecture, but also for people from outside the prefecture.
If you like, let’s sing it together!
Harbor SeekerAikawa Masaki
Masaki Aikawa’s debut single, released in 2008, is an enka song that expresses a woman’s feelings as she travels in pursuit of her beloved through Hakata, Nagasaki, Beppu, and Miyazaki.
Since Masaki Aikawa is from Kumamoto Prefecture, her debut song is set in Kyushu.
ONE FLAGV·Fāren Nagasaki
ONE FLAG is a supporters’ song for V-Varen Nagasaki, the professional soccer club based in Nagasaki.
It was written and composed by Masashi Sada, a singer-songwriter from Nagasaki Prefecture.
The song was created to mark the club’s 15th anniversary in 2020.
The lyrics are filled with the spirit of cheering on the club, and when sung by the supporters, they lift the team’s morale.
The melody is easy to sing, so even new fans can join in without worry.
When you go to cheer on V-Varen Nagasaki, be sure to raise your voice proudly!
Rain Man, Sunny Woman: Waiting for You at Dutch SlopeFuriwee Haihai
Rain Man, Sunny Woman ~ Waiting for You on Dutch Slope by Freeway High High, a music duo from Nagasaki, is a song about going on a date in Nagasaki.
Released in 2004 as their debut single, it features various spots around the city.
The lyrics—saying that memories of dating you in Nagasaki are precious treasures no matter the weather—are heartwarming.
Doesn’t it make you want to go on a date in Nagasaki? When you do, be sure to visit the places that appear in the lyrics!