Popular Okinawan Songs Ranking [2026]

play yardMaekawa Morikata22rank/position

Playground - Mamoru Maekawa

Mamoru Maekawa is a singer who specializes in Okinawan folk music.

His 1988 release “Asibinaa” is an easy-to-listen-to track with a light, lively rhythm.

By the way, the title is pronounced “ashibinaa.” Its approachable arrangement, which also resonates with modern pop, makes it a great recommendation even for people who don’t usually listen to Okinawan folk.

I’ve heard it’s popular in karaoke boxes in Okinawa as well, showing how its friendly melody is loved by many.

Since it’s so well-known, it also seems like a good choice for dancing Eisa!

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Yuuki

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Child GodKojya Misako23rank/position

Warabigami (Child God) - Misako Koja & Natsuki

This is a song by Misako Koja, a female singer from Okinawa.

The song is about a newborn baby.

The lyrics are sprinkled with Okinawan words, which go beautifully with her expansive, clear singing voice.

It’s a famous piece that has been covered by various artists from Okinawa.

Blue Treasureyanawarabaa24rank/position

Yanawaraba “Blue Treasure”

The warm tone and hometown-evoking lyrics move me to tears, even if you’re not from Okinawa.

It’s a song by the female duo Yanawaraba.

It’s the title track from their first mini-album, released in 2004.

The beautiful choral work feels cleansing to the soul.

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Araki Jakkan

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grandmaShimaji Isamu25rank/position

Isamu Shimoji / Grandma

This is a song themed around “Grandmother” by Isamu Shimoji, a singer-songwriter from Miyakojima City in Okinawa Prefecture.

A distinctive feature of his work—reflecting his Miyakojima roots—is that he sings in Miyako, the local dialect, known as “Miyako-guchi” and pronounced locally as “Myākufutsu.” The lyrics can be difficult to grasp without a parallel translation, but his unique vocal delivery conveys a sense of the culture and atmosphere that transcends language.

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Murakami Shinpei

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Nakazun Nagare26rank/position

[Okinawan Song] Nakajun Nagari | Sanshin Music Famous in Eisa | With Lyrics

This is a song that gently embraces the spirit of Okinawa.

The warm sound of Uchināguchi and the calm melody blend comfortably, inviting listeners into a world of healing.

Rhythmic yet tinged with nostalgia, its tone evokes Okinawa’s blue seas and white sandy beaches.

Especially when you’re worn out by busy days, why not give this piece a listen? The moment it reaches your ears, there’s a curious charm that seems to lighten the heart.

It’s a perfect recommendation not only for those planning a trip to Okinawa, but also for anyone seeking a small measure of comfort in their daily life.

Yuito of the WindHii de Katsu27rank/position

Yuito of the Wind

It is one of the songs released by Higa Katsumi, a musician from the Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa Prefecture.

Rather than traditional Okinawan music, it features a deep, resonant timbre reminiscent of regions like India and other parts of Asia, creating a strikingly mystical atmosphere.

Along with “Miruku Namuri,” it is beloved as a staple of Eisa, and the incorporation of gentle movements serves to emphasize the song’s worldview.

Because it is a piece with prominent vocals, paying close attention to the calls and responses should allow performers to showcase a powerful Eisa that can stand up to the intensity of the music.

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kappamaki

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Bountiful Harvest Dance28rank/position

[Okinawan Folk Song] Harvest Dance / Kachaashii - Large Drum

A track pulsing with rhythms that let you feel the breath and tradition of Okinawa.

It makes you want to step along with the comfortable hand movements.

The lyrics, expressed in Uchinaaguchi, convey gratitude and the richness of the harvest, and their simplicity warms the heart.

Its friendly melody is loved by people of all ages, and you often hear it at local festivals and bon dances.

Wrapped in a gentle atmosphere that evokes Okinawa’s blue sky and sea, it offers a soothing moment.

You can fully savor the charm of Uchinaaguchi, making it perfect for those who want to experience Okinawan culture or seek a fresh musical encounter.