[Song of Shimane] Izumo, Matsue, Tsuwano... Exquisite masterpieces depicting Shimane

scarecrowsadamasashi

Scarecrow — Masashi Sada

A local song themed around Tsuwano Town in Shimane Prefecture, sung by Masashi Sada.

It’s a classic that captures the feelings of parents worrying about their child.

Hearing the lyrics that evoke Tsuwano’s tranquil scenery can put you in a nostalgic mood.

If you’ve visited, try listening while picturing the scenes of Tsuwano; if not, imagine the leisurely pace of life in the countryside as you listen.

My beloved IzumoTakeuchi Mariya

“Beloved My Izumo,” sung by all performers (about 480 people) at the 22nd Chorus Gathering

Singer-songwriter Mariya Takeuchi is from Izumo City in Shimane Prefecture.

This song has been crafted into a pure and refreshing piece, reminiscent of a school anthem.

Even as she thrives away from Shimane, it’s a love-filled track that conveys her strong feelings for her hometown and her enduring connection to it.

Izumo UjōTakigawa Maiko

Maiko Takigawa / Izumo Rain Sentiment (Short Ver.)

A pure enka number by Maiko Takigawa that vividly evokes rainy Izumo, the land of myth.

Though it’s a journey to end a romance, the woman’s growing attachment won’t let her cut ties, and her heart is depicted alongside local scenes like the Hii River and the Month of the Gods.

Released in November 2013 as the second installment commemorating Maiko Takigawa’s 25th anniversary debut, this song conjures images of Izumo shrouded in rain and the protagonist standing there alone.

Listen when you want comfort for the ache of a bittersweet love, or when you wish to feel the travel romance of Shimane—the music will seep deep into your heart.

Oki Travel SentimentMizumori Kaori

Kaori Mizumori - Oki Travel Sentiment

This is a song by Kaori Mizumori, the “Queen of Local Songs,” that richly portrays the travel sentiments of Shimane.

It is filled with beautiful scenes of Shimane, such as the poignant feeling of gazing toward the mainland from the Oki Islands, the sunset sinking over Lake Shinji, and the picturesque streets of Tsuwano.

The loneliness felt while traveling and the warm thoughts of one’s hometown seep deeply into the heart, carried by her clear voice and gently wistful melody.

The song was released in August 2014 as a related edition to the hit work “Shimane Koitabi” (Shimane Love Journey).

Mizumori herself serves as a Shimane Hometown Goodwill Ambassador, and this work also plays a role in conveying the charms of Shimane.

Tsuwano of the WindHikawa Kiyoshi

Tsuwano of the Wind

It’s an enka ballad rich with a sense of travel, evoking the beautiful scenery of Tsuwano in Shimane Prefecture.

Kiyoshi Hikawa’s gentle voice delicately conveys the protagonist’s emotions embedded in the song.

The lyrics, which admire the resilience of grass that keeps living strongly even when trampled rather than the splendor of flamboyantly blooming flowers, express a quiet resolve to face forward without yielding to adversity.

Released in December 2021, the track is also included in the themed compilation album Tabiuta Special BOX, which features songs about journeys across Japan.

It’s a piece you’ll want to listen to when you’re at a crossroads in life and need a gentle push forward.

Threads of FateTakeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – Threads of Fate (Official Music Video)

This work by Mariya Takeuchi, who hails from Izumo City, was created to mark the 30th anniversary of her debut and is filled with her feelings for her hometown.

Centered on the theme of “go-en”—the invisible bonds and serendipitous encounters that connect people—the lyrics quote classical epithets associated with Izumo, distilling the spirit of the region and a warm hometown love.

The song served as the main theme for the NHK morning drama series Dandan, which began airing in September 2008, and is also included on the acclaimed album TRAD.

It’s a gentle song that embraces those striving away from home and anyone who wants to reflect on the preciousness of the connections they’ve made along the way.

TsuwanoMizumori Kaori

Tsuwano - Kaori Mizumori

This is a local song for Tsuwano Town in Shimane Prefecture, sung by Kaori Mizumori, the queen of local songs.

Although it’s an enka tune, its bright and refreshing atmosphere is truly charming, isn’t it? Tsuwano, known as the “Little Kyoto of the San’in region,” is a town where history and culture are alive.

I imagine many people who heard this song felt inspired to visit.