Folk songs, children’s songs, and nursery rhymes of Kumamoto: the enduring spirit of our hometown passed down through song.
Kumamoto has served as the setting for folk songs and children’s songs known throughout Japan, such as Otemoyan and Itsuki no Komoriuta.
These works vividly portray the grandeur of Aso’s natural landscape, the majestic figure of Kumamoto Castle, and the rhythms of everyday life.
From Taharabanzaka, which conveys the sorrow of the Satsuma Rebellion, to Higo Kome Ondo, which celebrates a bountiful harvest, each folk song passed down through the generations is deeply etched with Kumamoto’s history and culture.
In this article, we have gathered folk songs, children’s songs, and nursery rhymes from Kumamoto, imbued with love for the homeland and the joys of daily life.
Let us lend an ear to the world of song where the spirit of Kumamoto resides.
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Kumamoto folk songs, children's songs, and nursery rhymes: The heart of our hometown passed down through song (21–30)
The Bride’s Song of Yatsushiro
This is a wedding celebratory song that has been passed down since the mid-Edo period along the Ariake Sea coast in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto Prefecture.
Its simple melody and the harmonious sounds of shamisen and drums convey the joy of festivity.
The lyrics bless the marriage, expressing a bright, uplifting spirit and hopes for a new beginning.
Cherished within local life for over 150 years, the piece is still performed at regional festivals and events, helping to carry on cultural traditions.
Through this song, why not experience Kumamoto’s history and the warmth of its people?
Fire Country Ondo
A song packed with lyrics that celebrate the nature of Aso, the fiery excitement of the Land of Fire Festival, and a deep affection for one’s hometown, along with the lively spirit of the festivities.
The rhythm and chants invite clapping hands and stomping feet, bringing smiles to listeners and drawing them into the dance circle.
Although this work has no tie-ins such as TV commercials, it is cherished in local cultural events and has been performed at occasions like the Kumamoto Prefecture Special Achievement Award ceremony.
It is one of Kumamoto’s beloved local songs.
Perfect for anyone who wants to experience Kumamoto’s climate and culture or soak up a festive mood.
It’s also recommended for lively gatherings where everyone can have fun while thinking of their hometown.
Kumamoto Bicycle Song
It is a folk song whose warm Kumamoto dialect gently wraps the listener’s heart.
The lyrics portray the frustration of being unable to meet a loved one and a growing longing, set against the tranquil rural landscapes of Kumamoto.
The image of a young person speeding through town on a bicycle conveys hope for a new era and the sparkle of youth.
They say this song pairs lyrics in the Kumamoto vernacular with the melody of a tune that became popular toward the end of the Meiji period, and it has been passed down among local people ever since.
In episode 2 of the 2019 NHK historical drama “Idaten: Tokyo Olympic Story,” its charm once again resonated with many through the singing voice of the heroine played by Haruka Ayase.
Why not give it a listen when you feel like touching a somewhat nostalgic, quintessential Japanese landscape?
Kuma River Boat Song
Set against the majestic flow of the river from Hitoyoshi to Yatsushiro, this Kumamoto folk song reflects the spirit and daily lives of the boatmen.
The melodies of the shakuhachi and shamisen carry a lively rhythm tinged with a certain nostalgic wistfulness, drawing listeners into the timeless current of ages past.
Handed down orally since the heyday of river transport, the song is still performed today at local festivals and folk music contests.
It’s a piece to lend an ear to when you want to reflect on the nature and way of life of the people of Kumamoto.
Chiyu-chiyuke (Earth-stamping Song)
This piece makes you feel as if you’re parading through Kumamoto’s castle town—lively and full of fun.
The lyrics skillfully weave in the Kumamoto dialect, vividly depicting scenes from the region.
Accompanied by the timbre of the shamisen, you can sense the warmth and spirit of the local people and the vibrancy of their daily lives.
Cherished as a teaching piece for Nihon buyo (Japanese dance), it’s perfect for moments when you want to reflect on Kumamoto’s history and culture or when you’re in the mood for bright, uplifting traditional music.
Performed at a Japanese dance recital, it would surely envelop the entire venue in a festive atmosphere and bring smiles to the audience.
Shinonome-bushi
Said to have originated in Kumamoto toward the end of the Meiji era, this piece carries the heartfelt cries of people striving earnestly amid great social upheaval.
The lyrics mention specific place names and convey both the strength of women who sought freedom even in hardship and a vein of satirical expression.
Sung and passed down by many performers—such as Terukiku, Asakusa Yumeko, and Wada Hiroshi and the Mahina Stars—this song may inspire the courage to persevere by letting you feel the spirit of those who endured adversity.
Kumamoto Sawagi Song
It’s a heart-thumping work that makes the lively castle town of Kumamoto and the breath of the people who live there unfold before your eyes.
The lyrics vividly convey the grandeur of Kumamoto Castle, the rich natural surroundings, and the warmth of its people, carried by the pleasant 7-7-7-5 rhythm and the charming lilt of the Kumamoto dialect.
If you want to feel close to Kumamoto’s history and culture, immerse yourself in the beauty of traditional Japanese music, or touch the warm feelings of longing for one’s hometown, why not give this piece a listen? Its upbeat music is sure to set both your heart and body in motion.