Lovely nursery rhymes, folk songs, and children's songs

[2025] Masterpieces themed around Ibaraki: From local songs to municipal anthems, an introduction

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

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.

2025: Masterpieces themed around Ibaraki. Introducing everything from local songs to municipal anthems (21–30)

Itako BoatMiyako Otsuki

Miyako Otsuki - Itako Boat

Itako Boat - Miyako Ōtsuki

This is a song released in 1964 by enka singer Miyako Ōtsuki, when she was still 18.

It tells of a female boatman who sadly continues to wait for her beloved, who never returns.

The lyrics were written by Tanaka Yuki, known for composing many municipal anthems, and the music was composed by Eiichi Kawakami.

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Ibaraki Prefecture Residents' SongHajime Sagawa

Ibaraki Prefecture Residents' Song

Sagawa Hajime, the Song of the People of Ibaraki Prefecture

This is the prefectural anthem of Ibaraki, established in 1963.

If you’re a resident of the prefecture, you’ve probably heard it at least once.

The lyrics and melody were selected through a public contest.

The song highlights various charms of Ibaraki, but there seem to be opinions that the third verse is not in step with the times.

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To a shining futureToshiko Miyashita

Naka Himawari Festival 2013: Naka City Citizens’ Song – Toward a Shining Future

Toshiko Miyashita to a Shining Future

Naka City, located in the northern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, was established in 2005 through the merger of Naka Town and Uren Town.

The city song “Toward a Shining Future” was created to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the merger.

This video is from when it was performed at the Naka Sunflower Festival 2013.

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JOSO☆HappyHatsune Miku

5. JOSO☆Happy Exercises <Kids Version> (No Audio Commentary) 2013-05 Edition

JOSO☆Happy Hatsune Miku

It’s the image song of Joso City, located in the southwestern part of Ibaraki Prefecture.

The composition was done by the NPO Rainbow, and the lyrics were created based on submissions from citizens.

A matching routine called “JOSO☆Happy Exercises” was also produced, with three versions: standing, seated, and children’s.

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Itako BrideNatsumi Kawano

"Itako Bride" Natsumi Kawano ~ Kechao Saito (Menko Taro)

Itako Bride by Natsumi Kawano

There are many songs themed around Itako City in the southeastern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, and one of them is “Itako Hanayome-san,” sung by enka singer Kikue Hanamura.

She also appeared on the 11th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen with this song.

This video is a cover version by Natsumi Kawano.

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Tokai OndoHarumi Miyako

Tomore, Bright Nuclear Power — That’s the “Tokai Ondo,” sung by Harumi Miyako.

Tokai Ondo Harumi Miyako

Tokai Village, located in the northern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, was established in 1955 through the merger of Shakujin Village and Muramatsu Village.

Created in 1980 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the merger, the “Tokai Ondo” is sung by Harumi Miyako.

It is sometimes played at festivals and other events held in the village.

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Night Boat to ItakoGregory

Singing KURAWAKA Haruo: “Itako Night Boat”

Itako Night Boat Gregory

This is a song about a boatman on a night boat.

Rentaro Kita, who sang the original, debuted at the young age of 16 and was like a pop idol of his time.

“Itako Yobune” was also a hit, but sadly he passed away at a young age.

This video is a cover version.

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