[2025] Masterpieces themed around Ibaraki: From local songs to municipal anthems, an introduction
In Ibaraki Prefecture, magnificent waterscapes stretch from the Pacific Ocean to Lake Kasumigaura, complemented by farm produce nurtured by its nature-rich land and historic townscapes—there are countless captivating elements.
Many songs have been composed to celebrate the wonders of Ibaraki, cherished as a source of pride by its residents.
From municipal anthems to beloved local tunes, music themed around Ibaraki is remarkably diverse.
In this article, we introduce a variety of songs that express Ibaraki in many forms—from simple hometown affection to grand hymns to nature.
You might discover a side of “Ibaraki in music” you’ve never known.
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[2025] Masterpieces with the theme of Ibaraki: Introducing everything from local songs to municipal anthems (11–20)
Ishioka, my hometownLyrics by Hanako Oshima and the citizens of Ishioka / Music by Hanako Oshima
This is a song created collaboratively by singer-songwriter Hanako Oshima and the citizens of Ishioka to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the city’s merger.
The lyrics are woven with more than 800 “words and feelings” contributed by residents, packing in the charms of Ishioka—from the scenery of Mount Tsukuba and the Koise River to the lively spirit of the “lion-dancing town.” Oshima’s warm vocals pair perfectly with the friendly call-and-response “Osshainā.” Just listening to it conveys the heartfelt love people have for their hometown.
It will surely resonate not only with the citizens of Ishioka, but also deeply with those living away from home.
Hitachi City Citizens' SongLyrics by Yukihisa Terakado / Music by Eiichi Yamada
This piece was composed by Eiichi Yamada, a composer who left behind many classic Showa-era kayōkyoku songs.
The lyrics by lyricist Koju Terakado are filled with the grandeur of Hitachi’s natural beauty, from the “winds of peace” blowing in from the Pacific Ocean to the Kamimine and Takasuzu mountains watching over the citizens.
Just by listening, you can picture the hopeful expressions of people stepping forward from postwar reconstruction toward the future.
It’s a local favorite that breathes with the city’s history and the warm wishes of its people—one you should definitely know.
Koise RiverAki Yashiro
The Koise River flows through Ibaraki Prefecture and empties into Lake Kasumigaura.
This song is a single by Aki Yashiro released in 1984, and it peaked at number 52 on the Oricon chart.
The lyrics were written by Aki Yashiro herself under the pen name “Megumi Akino.”
Itako GasaYukio Hashi
It’s an enka ballad in the matabi (wandering gambler) style set in Itako City.
It was Yukio Hashi’s debut single, with lyrics by Takao Saeki and music by Tadashi Yoshida.
There’s also an anecdote that when Hashi first received the sheet music, he misread the title “Itako-gasa” as “Shiokuru-kasa.”
Song of Namegata City ~My Hometown~All students of Namegata City Tamatsukuri Junior High School
It is the city song of Namegata City, located in the southeastern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, established in 2012.
The composer is Hiroyuki Yoshioka, a musician who has created numerous choral and musical pieces.
In this video, students from Tamatsukuri Junior High School in Namegata City are singing it.
An MP3 can be downloaded from the city’s website.
Spacetime Warrior Ibaraiger R: Noble LifeTakayuki Miyauchi
“Spacetime Warrior Ibaraiger R” is a local hero representing Ibaraki Prefecture, with stage shows performed at various events.
The theme song is sung by Takayuki Miyauchi, well-known for hero songs such as “Kamen Rider BLACK RX.”
2025: Masterpieces themed around Ibaraki. Introducing everything from local songs to municipal anthems (21–30)
For a wonderful tomorrowMinako Honda
This is the image song of Hitachinaka City, located in the northern part of Ibaraki Prefecture and the fourth most populous city in the prefecture.
The lyrics were written by Yasushi Akimoto, known as the producer of AKB48, and the music was composed by Tsugutoshi Goto.
It is sung by Minako Honda, who was also active as an actress and passed away in 2005.