From J-pop to folk songs! Popular and classic Okinawan tunes
For those of you looking for songs from Okinawa, this article introduces a wide variety of music related to the islands.
We’ve picked out everything from J-pop themed around Okinawa and Okinawan pops to traditional folk songs that have been passed down for generations.
Okinawan music is so captivating, isn’t it? From instruments like the sanshin and other traditional Japanese instruments to its distinctive vocal style—and that unmistakably Okinawan vibe!
Getting a bit musical here, but Okinawan music often uses a five-note scale known as the Ryukyu scale or the yo-nuki scale, built on the notes do–mi–fa–so–ti–do.
That very resonance of the Ryukyu scale is the secret behind the uniquely Okinawan atmosphere you feel in these songs!
Listen to the tracks we’re about to introduce and soak in the spirit of Okinawa.
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Okinawan Songs / Okinawa Songs (61–70)
Tinsagu FlowersNatsukawa Rimi
This is a famous song covered by Rimi Natsukawa, originally a traditional didactic song from Okinawa.
It sings about cherishing and engraving in one’s heart the words received from one’s parents, overlaying that sentiment with the image of dyeing one’s nails with balsam flower petals.
Rimi Natsukawa’s crystal-clear, endlessly pure voice and the simple tones of the sanshin cleanse the heart—this is a tender, deeply moving piece filled with compassion.
The song was included on the album “Okinawa Uta ~Feeling the Ryukyu Breeze~,” released in November 2009, and was also selected as a beloved song of the people of Okinawa Prefecture.
It’s said to be familiar as the station melody for the Yui Rail as well.
The love and wisdom passed down across generations warms the heart before you know it.
Nirai KanaiMAX
This is a dance-beat track by the four-member female dance unit MAX, featuring Okinawan folk instruments.
The song fuses Eurobeat with accompaniment in the Okinawan scale and the sound of the sanshin, conveying respect for Okinawan music, which is MAX’s roots.
The title “Niraikanai” is an Okinawan word meaning “utopia,” and serves as a hint for how to approach listening to the song.
Hana nu Chura ShimaTokeiji Tsutomu
A song that warmly celebrates Okinawa’s beautiful nature and culture, resonating with the comforting tones of the sanshin and an upbeat rhythm.
It is a signature work by Tsutomu Tokeshi that superbly fuses traditional Okinawan music with pop, and it is included on the album “Okinawa no Kaze,” released in June 2005.
The track was also chosen as the official campaign song of the Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau and has been used in local TV commercials and radio programs, making it highly well-known in Okinawa.
Its gentle mood and powerful beat further illuminate the image of children dancing together in unison.
LazuliMONGOL800, WANIMA
This song vividly portrays the landscapes of Okinawa, richly infused with the nature and culture of the Ryukyu Islands.
It has a nostalgic, emotionally evocative atmosphere that makes you almost hear the sound of waves and the timbre of the sanshin.
Born from a collaboration between the two bands MONGOL800 and WANIMA, this work is included on the split EP “Aiyaya 2,” released in September 2024.
While conveying the distinct spirit of Okinawa, its lyrics sing of universal love and hope that are sure to resonate with many listeners.
It’s a perfect track for moments when you want to feel summer memories or the bonds with someone dear.
Flower CityIkuma Akira
A powerful work that weaves a moving sound by fusing Okinawan traditional music with rock and pop.
The soulful vocals praising the preciousness of the Earth and life, the strong rhythms of the drums, and the beautiful melodies of the sanshin are in perfect harmony.
Singing of the importance of local culture and bonds, this piece features approachable arrangements of Okinawan performing arts and fully conveys the appeal of new music born from the interplay of tradition and innovation.
It’s perfect for performing Eisa at a school sports festival, and is a must-listen for anyone interested in traditional performing arts or dance.
Dynamic RyukyuIkuma Akira
Akira Ikuma is a singer-songwriter from Fukuoka.
His song “Dynamic Ryukyu” was released in 2008 as a single in the unusual format of an Okinawa-only release.
With Okinawan calls like “Ii-yā sā sā” and the sound of drums evoking a distinctly folk-music atmosphere, it’s also uniquely punctuated by an electric guitar solo.
Its avant-garde sound makes you want to start dancing as you listen—truly a perfect track for Eisa.
ultramarinekariyushi 58
This song, with an intro that instantly makes you want to sing along, is a track from the 2022 album “Nanairo Tokage.” It’s a rock tune featuring a strikingly distorted, crisp guitar sound, making it incredibly pleasant to listen to.
As evidenced by the fact that its music video was released on June 23, 2022—Okinawa Memorial Day—the song carries a message that reflects on Okinawa’s past and entrusts hope to the future by accepting it.
Coming from artists who hail from Okinawa, this heartfelt wish for peace and happiness resonates with even greater conviction.
