[Songs of Aomori] A collection of local songs depicting the grandeur of nature and the warmth of its people.
The fertile fields and the Tsugaru Plain stretching serenely, the majestic Hakkoda Mountains, and the grand Sea of Japan.
Songs born from Aomori’s nature-rich land are loved not only by its residents but by many people far and wide.
In this article, we introduce captivating pieces woven with Aomori’s scenery and sentiment—from local songs cherished by the community, to popular ballads set in Aomori, to hometown tunes by artists hailing from the prefecture.
Please enjoy them while reflecting on the land of Aomori and the hometown that resides in each of our hearts.
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[Aomori Songs] A collection of local tunes depicting the grandeur of nature and the warmth of its people (11–20)
Train of Love for YouSouichi Futami
This is a travel-themed enka song by Soichi Futami, whose “yamabiko voice,” honed through folk music, resonates deeply.
As a continuation of the story from the previous release, it portrays the protagonist’s aching passion as he heads to Aomori in pursuit of a former lover.
The song’s exhilarating pace deftly captures both a racing heart and the speed of a rushing train.
Released in November 2022 as the second single in the “Train Series,” it was later included on the best-of album Yamabiko Best.
It’s a perfect piece for journeys spent thinking of someone dear, or for moments of nostalgia for one’s hometown.
Solo Journey with the Tsugaru ShamisenSaisei
This song captures the resolve and loneliness of leaving one’s hometown to devote oneself to a life in the performing arts.
Ayasei, who sings and also plays the Tsugaru shamisen and shakuhachi, puts the instrument at the core of his roots—the Tsugaru shamisen—front and center, stirring the listener’s heart.
Set against the harsh natural backdrop of Japan’s northern lands, the piece portrays a young person pursuing a dream alone.
Their earnest determination overlaps with the shamisen’s powerful yet somehow wistful tones, resonating deeply with all who listen.
Riding the momentum of winning the Best New Artist Award at the 61st Japan Record Awards, Ayasei released this track as his second single in May 2020.
Come back here.Natsumi Mizuki
A poignant enka of homesickness that longs for a father who won’t return home, as if waiting for spring to arrive in the Tsugaru Plain.
Natsumi Mizuki’s powerful yet lyrical voice—nurtured by folk song—merges with Tsugaru’s primal scenery, from apple orchards to the sound of steam whistles, stirring the listener’s heart.
Released in August 2017 as her sixth single, this song later became one of her signature tracks, included on the album “Utatugumi 2” and the best-of collection “Zenkyokushū 2021.” For those living away from their hometowns, it may overlap with feelings for their own families and make their hearts swell.
Tsugaru Love WomanKenji Niinuma
This is a single by Kenji Niinuma released in 1987.
Hailing from neighboring Iwate Prefecture, Niinuma has put out many songs about the Tohoku region, and this track became a long-running hit by captivating listeners with its chorus, which portrays the various kinds of snow unique to his hometown.
He also performed it on that year’s NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
The Woman of the Tsugaru StraitSonin
Sonim debuted in 2000 as the vocalist of EE JUMP.
Tsugaru Kaikyō no Onna is her second solo single, released in November 2002.
Despite its enka-like title, it’s a pop song written and composed by Tsunku♂.
Many listeners may have seen themselves in the image of someone living alone in Tokyo, thinking of their hometown while listening to a song from Tsugaru.
Aomori ElegyAine Honma
A song where the protagonist’s bittersweet feelings, visiting the hometown of a former lover, overlap with the harsh winter scenes of Aomori.
Manane Honma’s heartfelt vocals leave a deep impression on listeners.
Released in January 2024, this work is the coupling track on Honma’s first single after moving to King Records.
The music video, filmed in Sotogahama, Aomori Prefecture, also drew attention.
Her vocals, filled with love for Aomori, are sure to set your heart aglow.
[Aomori Songs] A collection of local tunes depicting majestic nature and the warmth of its people (21–30)
Ringo OiwakeEGO-WRAPPIN’
A smash hit by Hibari Misora released in May 1952.
EGO-WRAPPIN’ gave it a modern arrangement and performed it at live shows.
In 2016, it was broadcast on NHK BS Premium, bringing it back into the spotlight, and it continues to captivate many people as a timeless local-themed song.