Popular Okinawan Songs Ranking [2026]

LazuliMONGOL800, WANIMA71rank/position

Lazuli

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.

Asadoya YuntaUema Ayano72rank/position

Asadoya Yunta / Ayano Uema

It is one of Okinawa’s most famous folk songs.

Ayano Uema has a singing voice that resonates with people of the current generation.

The distinctive sounds of Okinawan folk music make it a song that brings Okinawa to mind no matter how far away you are.

As a folk song, many people perform it, but Ayano Uema’s voice is pleasant, refreshing, and very easy to listen to.

Thank yourinken bando73rank/position

Rinken Band, thank you.

Rinken Band captivates with their original sound that lets you feel the breeze of Okinawa.

Written and composed by the band’s leader, Rinken Teruya, this work expresses gratitude using Okinawa’s distinctive language.

In the “Okinawan pop” style, which incorporates traditional instruments like the sanshin and island drums, its lively and cheerful melody resonates pleasantly.

Released in May 1993, this song was a pivotal track that led to Rinken Band’s debut.

The lyrics, inspired by everyday life in Okinawa, have the power to speak to the deeper parts of the human heart.

It’s a recommended song for those who want to soak in the feeling of being in Okinawa or simply seek healing.

Basho-fu (traditional Okinawan banana-fiber cloth)Ishimine Satoko74rank/position

Satoko Ishimine Bashofu (Revised Version)

This is a representative folk song of Okinawa.

Satoko Ishimine, who became famous for “Hana,” has a beautifully clear, resonant voice that is incredibly soothing.

The lyrics capture the scenery of Okinawa, making it a song that truly embodies the region.

It doesn’t use much dialect either, so it’s easy to listen to even for people from outside the prefecture.

Tinsagu FlowersUema Ayano75rank/position

Tinsagu nu Hana / Ayano Uema

It is also used as the departure melody at Prefectural Office Station on the Okinawa Urban Monorail.

In the song “Tinsagu nu Hana,” “tinsagu” means balsam (garden balsam), and it is said that in the past, dyeing one’s nails with the juice of this flower warded off evil.

Using the act of dyeing with the balsam flower as a metaphor, the song says you should let your parents’ words dye your heart—that is, listen carefully to your parents’ teachings.

Children in Okinawa are said to grow up hearing this song from a young age; it is a song filled with the hearts of parents and the spirit of Okinawa.

By invoking Okinawa’s nature and everyday life, it conveys its message in a way that seeps into the heart, and its lyrics are deeply moving.

Beyond the seaPāshakurabu76rank/position

Pasha Club: Beyond the Sea

They are a band from Okinawa formed in 1993.

They’re deeply rooted in the local community, even being featured in an Orion Beer commercial.

Their songs, which blend Okinawan music with genres like rock, reggae, and jazz, are really cool! Their lyrics also vividly capture Okinawa’s beautiful scenery.

Tōfun Doirinken bando77rank/position

Rinken Band: Kadeku ~ Tōfuné Dōi

This is a representative Kachāshī song.

It is performed almost without fail at events such as Eisa dances during the old Bon festival, banquets, and folk music taverns.

In the past, it was enjoyed as a fast-picked tune during ke-asobi, the leisure activities of young men and women.

It is also the departure melody at Tsubogawa Station on the Okinawa Urban Monorail.