A classic song in the Okinawan dialect, Uchinaaguchi
We invite you into the world of songs in Uchināguchi, where the spirit of Okinawa lives on.
The dialect vocals, nestled against the gentle tones of the sanshin, evoke emerald-green seas, white sandy beaches, and even the salty breeze.
From BEGIN and HY to Kariyushi58, the many gemlike masterpieces crafted by artists Okinawa is proud of offer a one-of-a-kind musical experience where nostalgia and novelty blend together.
We’ll introduce you to many wonderful songs filled with Okinawa’s history and deep local love.
Sit back and enjoy a heartwarming moment—like setting off on a sonic journey around the islands of Okinawa.
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Uchināguchi classics from Okinawan dialect (1–10)
Islanders’ TreasureBEGIN
This is the 23rd single by BEGIN, an acoustic band of three members from Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture, released on May 22, 2002.
The lyrics were written with reference to Ishigaki Junior High School students’ feelings for their island.
It’s a song I hope many people will listen to for its wonderful lyrics.
Bye-bye, OkinawaNēnēzu
This is a signature song by an Okinawan music group formed in 1990.
Nenes, captivating with their harmonized vocals and dressed in historical Okinawan attire—kimono in a bingata style—blend modern lyrics with Okinawan music beautifully, making it a joy to listen to!
OKIDOKI feat.CHOUJI,Grace AimiBig Knot Records
It’s a warm, uplifting track where Okinawan tradition and the present day intersect comfortably.
The performers are rapper CHOUJI and singer Grace Aimi.
Built on the gentle melodies of Okinawan folk music, the interplay of sprightly rap and soaring vocals conveys the joy of passing culture down across generations.
Its sound is both new and nostalgic, and it’s impossible not to feel your spirits lift.
Released in September 2023, the song even reached No.
2 on the charts in New Zealand, beyond Japan.
Put it on while driving along Okinawa’s beautiful coast, and you might just see emerald-green scenery rise vividly in your mind’s eye.
Classic Songs in the Okinawan Dialect (Uchināguchi) (11–20)
Yasaka LIT feat. CHICO CARLITOOZworld
“Let’s celebrate the future with a feast, not a fight!” This is a positive toast anthem by Okinawa-born rapper OZworld, featuring fellow Okinawan CHICO CARLITO.
True to its title—which fuses a traditional Japanese phrase wishing for prosperity with an Okinawan dialect expression for “cheers”—the song carries a powerful message that shines a light of hope in chaotic times.
Released in May 2025, it was created to commemorate their first Nippon Budokan concert scheduled for October of the same year.
Gather with your closest friends, talk about the future ahead, and this track is guaranteed to lift the mood at any celebration!
Dynamic RyukyuIkuma Akira
This soul-stirring track by Akira Ikuma masterfully fuses Okinawa’s traditional performing art Eisa with a funky groove.
The lyrics, penned by Daiichi Hirata, open with a prayer to the sea and sky, inspiring listeners and powerfully celebrating people’s dreams and bonds.
With sanshin and drums resounding, the sound makes you feel as if you’re swept up in the frenzy of a festival.
Released in August 2009, the song became familiar as the theme for Orion Beer commercials and gained attention when it was used to cheer on high school baseball teams.
Since then, it has become a staple anthem in the world of sports.
It’s sure to give a fiery push to anyone striving toward their goals.
KizunaORANGE RANGE
A warm message that says our hearts are connected even when we’re apart resonates in this song by ORANGE RANGE.
Like a rainbow stretching across the sky after the rain, its lyrics paint a hope that lies beyond hardship—surely encouraging many listeners.
Released in August 2005, the track touched countless hearts as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “Ima, Ai ni Yukimasu” (Be With You).
Precisely because it was created as the band overcame major changes, its words about the importance of supporting one another carry a special persuasiveness.
When you’re separated from a dear friend or run into a wall, listening to it will surely give you the strength to look ahead.
Why not sing along and reaffirm your bond with each other?
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.