![[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?
Al-Nasheed Al-WataniSakushi: 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?
HatikvahSakushi: 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 duulalSakushi: 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?
Amar Sonar BanglaSakushi: Rabindranath Tagore / Sakkyoku: Rabindranath Tagore
The national anthem of Bangladesh, created by Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel Prize–winning poet and a versatile artist.
Tagore also wrote and composed India’s national anthem, making him a rare figure who created the anthems of two countries.
This piece was composed amid the anti-Partition of Bengal movement in 1905 and expresses deep affection for the nature and landscapes of Bengal, the motherland.
During Bangladesh’s War of Independence, it became a spiritual anchor that supported the unity of the people, and it was officially adopted as the national anthem around 1972 after independence.
Its simple, beautiful melody, based on Baul folk music, quietly resonates in the listener’s heart.
It’s a recommended piece for moments when you want to feel the weight of history and offer a prayer for peace.