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[Songs of Kagoshima] The heart of our hometown carried on in song | A curated selection of classic tracks that embody Kagoshima

Majestic Sakurajima, the blue-shimmering Kinko Bay, and traditional culture rooted in a bountiful land.

Kagoshima is home to numerous gems—masterpieces that capture its charm in song.

In this article, we introduce works that convey a deep love for Kagoshima, from songs that sing of the proud, passionate Satsuma spirit to gentle melodies that echo across the islands.

Whether you’re far away now or have never visited in person, please listen while letting your thoughts drift to the beautiful land of Kagoshima.

[Songs of Kagoshima] The Heart of Our Hometown Passed Down in Song | A Curated Selection of Iconic Tracks That Capture Kagoshima (41–50)

volcanic ashYuki Kashiwagi

Kashiwagi Yuki – Volcanic Ash (Kazanbai) | Yukirin Graduation Concert
Volcanic ash Kashiwagi Yuki

This song expresses Ms.

Kashiwagi from Kagoshima City leaving her hometown and, even when she feels discouraged at times, striving toward her dream.

“Volcanic ash” refers to the ash from Sakurajima, something familiar in daily life since childhood, evoking both a poignant farewell to her hometown and a strong determination toward her dream.

[Songs of Kagoshima] The Heart of Our Hometown Passed Down Through Song | A Curated Selection of Iconic Tracks that Capture Kagoshima (51–60)

Kagoshima Ohara-bushiMichiya Mihashi

Mitchie (Michiya Mihashi) 'Kagoshima Oharabushi'
Kagoshima Ohara-bushi Michiya Mihashi

It is a representative folk song of Kagoshima.

Every November, a mass dance called the Ohara Festival is held in the streets.

With an upbeat rhythm that makes you want to start dancing, the sight of the entire city joining in must be spectacular.

The lyrics, rich with nature and people, are sure to stir nostalgia even in those who have left their hometown.

March “Kagoshima”Koyado Elementary School Brass Band Club

This is a piece composed for the National Sports Festival of Japan (Taiyo Kokutai) held in Kagoshima in 1972.

It incorporates representative Kagoshima songs such as “Ohara-bushi” and “Shima Sodachi.” Under the brightly shining sun, it is a youthful and spirited march truly befitting the Taiyo Kokutai.

Island-raisedYoshio Tabata

This song had been sung as a new folk song of Amami since before the war, but after Tabata heard it, it was recorded in 1962.

It became a big hit and is said to be widely loved and sung in Amami by everyone from children to the elderly.

It is a song that conveys the passionate feelings of a young woman raised on the islands.

Harbor SeekerMasaki Aikawa

It seems to be her debut song.

It has the feel of an older mood kayō (sentimental pop ballad).

The atmosphere is wonderful.

It’s a song about a woman who goes from port to port in Kyushu in search of the man she loves.

She believes in him and pursues him single-mindedly.

Is it Toi Misaki now, perhaps? Aikawa’s voice resonates with a sweet, heartrending quality.

You and Satsuma RoadSumire Hara

It seems to be a popular song for karaoke.

It’s unusual for an enka song in that it isn’t about parting; it’s about traveling the Satsuma road with a loved one.

It feels like a couple who’ve been together for a while—or perhaps they finally managed to stay together after many twists and turns.

The voice somehow reminds me of Ms.

Shimakura.

In conclusion

We introduced famous songs set in Kagoshima.

Listening to music infused with the pride and passion of the region must have made Kagoshima’s charm feel even deeper.

Be sure to enjoy a journey through Kagoshima, surrounded by its rich nature, along with these gem-like pieces of music.