A classic song that celebrates Niigata. The enduring spirit of our hometown passed down through song.
When you think of Niigata, you think of Koshihikari rice! But this time, I’d like to introduce some songs themed around Niigata.
We’ve gathered a variety: enka that sings of the particular loneliness of snowy regions, songs inspired by folk music, and funky tunes that convey Niigata’s greatness.
For those who live in Niigata or lived there as children, some of these tracks may bring back memories.
Each song showcases what makes Niigata wonderful, so be sure to listen while checking out the lyrics.
A selection of Niigata songs, just for you!
- Niigata’s folk songs, children’s songs, and nursery rhymes: the heart of our hometown passed down in song
- [Local Songs] Recommended tracks packed with Japan’s nationwide classics and hometown pride
- [Akita Songs] A Collection of Gem-Like Local Tunes Filled with Love for Hometowns
- Bands, artists, and singers from Niigata Prefecture
- A classic song about Nagano. The enduring spirit of our hometown passed down through song.
- A roundup of regional enka songs: classic hits that feature places from all across Japan in their lyrics.
- [Songs of Fukushima] Thinking of my hometown | A heartwarming collection of classic songs celebrating the beautiful “Fukushima”
- A classic song that sings of Yamanashi. The enduring heart of our hometown.
- [Yamagata Songs] Beloved local tunes and classic tracks celebrating majestic nature and hometown pride
- Chiba Songs: A comprehensive introduction, from famous tunes filled with hometown love to local theme songs
- Miyagi Songs: Popular tracks that celebrate famous sights and specialties, and timeless pieces filled with love for home
- [Hometown Songs] A curated selection of popular Japanese tracks that fill your heart with nostalgia
- A famous song about Fukuoka. The heart of the hometown passed down through song.
A classic song that sings of Niigata: The enduring heart of our hometown (21–30)
Love Song of SadoHosokawa Takashi
Takashi Hosokawa’s song “Sado no Koiuta” was released in 1995 and conveys traditional Japanese sentiment through Hosokawa’s powerful yet heartrending vocals.
The piece is inspired by the folktale “Sado Jowa,” and, set to a melody that is both gentle and intense, it has been cherished as an enka/kayōkyoku number expressing feelings for a loved one far away.
Since its release on January 21, 1995, it has been especially beloved by the people of Niigata Prefecture.
It’s recommended for anyone who has left their hometown or longs for a distant lover.
Echigo-SuibarashiMizumori Kaori
Released on March 29, 2016.
This piece is inspired by Hyoko Lake in the Suibara area of Agano City.
Hyoko is known as a stopover site for swans, and during the peak in November, more than 5,000 swans arrive.
A classic song that sings of Niigata: The enduring spirit of our hometown (31–40)
Whisper of the Heart ~Niigata University Image Song~Sasagawa Miwa
Miwa Sasagawa is a singer-songwriter living in Niigata Prefecture.
She loves her hometown of Niigata and composed this song with the desire to liven up Niigata University together, weaving in the university’s image of being close to the sea and rich in greenery.
Tetoto ~ The Theme of Tetto-kun ~iwafune hiroki
Tetto-kun is the mascot character of TeNY, TV Niigata.
According to Hiroki Iwafune, the lyrical depictions of scenery were created with a particular image of Niigata’s beautiful landscapes—its mountains, the sea, and sunsets.
Yuzawa Travel SentimentsKayama Yūzō
This song, included as the B-side of the single “Chotto Dake Stranager” released on July 1, 1988, is themed around Yuzawa, a town in Minamiuonuma District, Niigata Prefecture.
It is also known for being used as the hometown chime at Echigo-Yuzawa Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen.
Sadonasaotowa shinobu
Released on February 23, 2005.
The lyrics use words associated with Sado, such as local sake, the Okesa folk song, and tub boats.
It seems that Uno Kanda served as Shinobu Otowa’s fashion producer, and she performs in strikingly designed outfits.
In conclusion
How did you like the songs themed around Niigata? Along with the well-known local hits, there were probably some tracks that made you think, “Wait, this is a Niigata song?” Listening to songs about Niigata may have helped some of you rediscover its charms. When you visit Niigata, be sure to stop by the places that appeared in the songs.