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A classic song celebrating Oita. The enduring spirit of our hometown [2026]
When you hear “Oita Prefecture,” what kind of image comes to mind?Many people might immediately think of it as the “onsen prefecture,” since it boasts the highest number of hot spring sources and the greatest volume of hot spring water in Japan, and is home to many nationally renowned hot spring resorts.In this article, we’ve selected and compiled local songs from Oita, as well as songs related to Oita by artists from the prefecture.You might even discover, “Oh, this song was connected to Oita?”Enjoy the read!
A classic song about Oita: The heart of our hometown passed down in song [2026] (1–10)
YufuinMinami Kōsetsu
“Yufuin,” sung by Kousetsu Minami from Oita, is a lyrical folk song that seems to convey the serene atmosphere of a hot spring town.
The gentle timbre of the acoustic guitar evokes the peaceful scenery of the town spreading at the foot of Mount Yufu.
The lyrics, wistfully singing “I want to see you once more,” can be heard not only as a longing for a beloved person, but also as a kind of nostalgia for a distant hometown.
Perhaps it’s precisely because Minami himself lives in Oita, in harmony with nature, that this song carries a special warmth.
It’s a captivating piece that makes you yearn for the beautiful nature of Oita.
Lingering Snowkaguya hime
Originally included on Kaguyahime’s album and later immortalized by Iruka’s cover, this song has become a timeless classic.
The lyrics and music were written by member Shozo Ise.
The actual landscape that inspired the song is Tsukumi City in Oita Prefecture, Ise’s hometown.
It’s said that Tsukumi Station served as the model for the poignant farewell scene in the lyrics, and today the station even uses the melody as its train approach chime.
Layering the image of someone departing by train with the motif of out-of-season snow, the song creates an atmosphere that deeply moves listeners.
Perhaps it’s imbued with the yearning for a distant hometown and the aching sense, so real at the time, that the two may never meet again.
A Man’s HarborToba Ichirō
This is the 14th single released in 1986 by Ichirō Toba, an enka singer known for performing many songs about fishermen.
It is about Tsurumisaki, the easternmost point of Kyushu, located in Saiki City.
With this song, Ichirō Toba appeared in the 39th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
Moon over the Ruined CastleFORESTA
“Kōjō no Tsuki” is one of Rentarō Taki’s signature works, a song that sings of the rise and fall of fortunes.
It is included in music textbooks, so many people are likely familiar with it.
Taki is said to have conceived the piece at the ruins of Oka Castle in Taketa City, Ōita Prefecture, where a statue of him now stands.
Oita Prefecture MarchSakushi: Shōtake Kentarō / Sakkyoku: Eguchi Yashi
Composed from lyrics solicited in a public competition to commemorate a newspaper’s founding in 1935 (Showa 10), this is a march that represents Oita.
The lyrics were written by Kentaro Shotake, an educator from Oita, and the music was composed by Yashi Eguchi, known for numerous hit songs.
Place names that appear in the lyrics—such as Yabakei, Mount Kuju, and the Bungo Channel—may evoke a deep love for one’s hometown.
With a march-like melody that feels both nostalgic and stirring, the piece powerfully reflects Oita’s rich natural beauty and the vitality of its people.
It’s said that choreography was even created when the song was first released, conveying just how beloved this piece has been as a song that vividly embodies Oita.
Magical Oita Prefecture of Loveyukkii
This is a local anthem by Yukky that emerged from Flash animation in the early days of the internet.
Set to breezy idol pop, the song boldly weaves Oita Prefecture’s specialties and sightseeing spots into a tale of budding romance.
Its irresistibly catchy, earworm melody fuses perfectly with delightfully niche lyrics that will make locals crack a smile.
Though never officially released on CD, it became a cult favorite online—truly a hidden gem.
Give it a listen, and you might just find yourself drawn into Oita’s curious, magical charm.
The world’s first spaceport has been decided for Oita Prefecture.aberiyou
Released by ABE Ryo in 2021, this song takes on the wildly imaginative theme of Oita Airport becoming the world’s first spaceport.
Set to an upbeat, comical sound, it delivers biting social satire—featuring energy-saving plans to launch rockets from passenger planes and a governor who “gushes about a 10-billion-yen economic boost.” At the same time, the skillful inclusion of real challenges—like flights being canceled due to an eruption of Mount Aso—really stands out.
With its unique take on the broad theme of regional revitalization, the song invites listeners to joyfully imagine Oita’s future.
Be sure to listen while reading the lyrics!