![[How many do you know?] A compilation of national anthems of the world](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/8iuYxdXFPbc/hqdefault.jpg)
[How many do you know?] A compilation of national anthems of the world
Have you ever felt your heart swell while listening to national anthems at World Cup or Olympic opening ceremonies? Before soccer matches, it’s hard not to be captivated by the sight of players linking arms and singing together.
There are over 200 countries and regions in the world, each with a national anthem that reflects its own history and culture.
From those known for their valiant, stirring melodies to those noted for their beautiful, memorable tunes, the variety is truly remarkable.
In this article, we’ll introduce a generous selection of the world’s most famous and popular national anthems.
See how many familiar pieces you can find!
Asia (1–10)
Kimigayo
Based on a poem of unknown author from the Kokin Wakashū, compiled in the early 10th century, “Kimigayo” is known among the world’s national anthems for having lyrics with very ancient origins.
It had become established as the national anthem by 1930, and in 1999 it was officially designated as such under the Act on National Flag and Anthem.
Its powerful sound resonates within a sense of quiet.
The lyrics express a wish that “men and women support each other and that this world prosper for a long time.” Why not listen closely to the beautiful words brimming with the grace of the Japanese language?
HatikvahNEW!Sakushi: Naftali Herz Imber / Sakkyoku: Samuel Cohen
Hatikvah, known worldwide as the national anthem of Israel.
Bearing a title that means “hope” in Japanese, this piece was shaped by the poet Naftali Herz Imber and Samuel Cohen, who set it to a melody based on a folk tune.
Unusually for a national anthem, it features a minor-key melody, whose plaintive tone is said to resonate with Smetana’s symphonic poem Vltava (The Moldau).
Sung among the Jewish people for many years and treated as the de facto national anthem after the founding of the state, it was only on November 10, 2004, that it was legally established as the official anthem.
You may often see athletes singing it as if in prayer at the Olympics or international soccer matches.
Why not take a moment to listen closely to a melody imbued with the weight of history and a wish for the future?
Mongol Ulsiin Töriin duulalNEW!Sakushi: Tsendiin Damdinsüren / Sakkyoku: Bilegiin Damdinsüren & Luvsanjambyn Mördorj
The national anthem of Mongolia, created by Tsendiin Damdinsüren, a writer representing modern Mongolian literature, together with the renowned composers Bilegiin Damdinsüren and Luvsanjambyn Mördorj.
This work officially came into use in May 1950.
Distinguished by a solemn melody that evokes vast grasslands and blue skies, it embodies pride as an independent nation and hopes for prosperity.
The lyrics have been revised over the course of history, and in July 2006 they were updated to include praise for the national hero, Chinggis Khaan.
It is often performed at international sporting events and state ceremonies, stirring the hearts of listeners.
Why not listen to its grand resonance while reflecting on Mongolia’s history and culture?
Al-Nasheed Al-WataniNEW!Sakushi: Ahmad Meshari Al-Adwani / Sakkyoku: Ibrahim Al-Soula
Kuwait’s national anthem, “Al-Nasheed Al-Watani,” known in Japanese as “Kuwait National Anthem.” The lyrics were written by Ahmad Meshari Al-Adwani, who contributed not only as a poet but also to laying the foundations of cultural administration, and the music was composed by Ibrahim Al-Soula, who was active in folk performing arts research and broadcast music.
Established in February 1978, the piece has become indispensable for celebratory events such as National Day.
Its appeal lies in lyrics imbued with a strong resolve to safeguard the nation’s security and glory and to preserve the legacy of forebears, paired with a dignified, majestic sound.
Watching athletes sing it with pride at international competitions like football warms the heart.
Why not listen to it while reflecting on the weight of history?
Azərbaycan marşıNEW!Sakushi: Ahmed Javad / Sakkyoku: Uzeyir Hajibeyov
The national anthem Azerbaijani March (Azərbaycan marşı), with music composed by Uzeyir Hajibeyov—known as the “Father of Azerbaijani classical music”—and lyrics by the poet Ahmad Javad, is a resplendent, valiant march featuring brilliant brass tones.
It is a powerful piece imbued with devotion to the homeland and praise for the national flag.
Although it was created around 1919 during the era of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, it was not sung for a long time after the country was incorporated into the Soviet Union.
Later, after the restoration of independence, it was officially readopted as the national anthem in May 1992.
Revived after weathering the tumult of history, this melody exudes a dignity that stirs the hearts of its listeners.
When you hear it at international sporting events and the like, why not pay attention to their proud singing voices?
Sri Lanka MathaNEW!Sakushi: Ananda Samarakoon / Sakkyoku: Ananda Samarakoon
“Sri Lanka Matha,” whose lyrics and music were composed by Ananda Samarakoon, the pioneer of modern Sri Lankan music.
The original piece, written in 1940, was officially adopted as the national anthem in November 1951.
It was originally composed for children to sing at school, and its lyrics praising the motherland and its solemn, easily unisoned melody are deeply moving.
In fact, after its adoption, the opening words were altered for being considered inauspicious, a change that deviated from the composer’s intent.
This episode caused such profound anguish that it is said to have contributed to the composer’s death in April 1962, reflecting his deep attachment to the work.
Each time you hear it at international sporting events or ceremonies, why not spare a thought for the drama behind it?
Sayaun Thunga PhulkaNEW!Sakushi: Byakul Maila / Sakkyoku: Amber Gurung
This is the national anthem of Nepal, created by composer Amber Gurung, known as the father of modern Nepali music, and poet Byakul Maila.
Established in August 2007, it adopts lyrics selected from a public submission process that drew as many as 1,272 entries.
The content likens the country—where many ethnic groups and languages coexist—to a single garland made up of many flowers, conveying the beauty of diversity and harmony.
Its vocal range is designed so that even those without formal training can sing it, and its melody, which evokes a sense of nostalgia, is also appealing.
During the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, the BBC highlighted its unique musical character, bringing it into the spotlight.
You’ll often hear it at the opening ceremonies of international competitions, so listen for it while watching the expressions of the athletes.