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A classic song about Kumamoto. The enduring spirit of our hometown passed down through song.

Kumamoto, blessed with rich nature—the majestic mountains of Aso and the beautiful seas of Amakusa.

In this article, we introduce a selection of famous songs that convey its charm through music.

From the nostalgic “Antagata Dokosa,” to the adorable “Kumamoto Surprise!” by the local mascot Kumamon, and even “Aso no Koika,” imbued with hopes for recovery.

Why not lend an ear to these songs filled with the warmth of the Kumamoto dialect and a deep love for the homeland?

A classic song about Kumamoto. The enduring spirit of our hometown (1–10)

Batten LingoGaki Ranger

It’s a song by Gaki Ranger, a hip-hop group from Kumamoto Prefecture.

It’s an upbeat rap track, but all the lyrics are written in the Kumamoto dialect.

Many of their other songs are also in the Kumamoto dialect, and despite being in a regional dialect, they give off a very cool and uniquely captivating vibe.

Kumamoto City SongKumamoto City

Kumamoto City Song, E-flat major, Piano and Trumpet, piano_Back+tp_2016_5_25_tk3_Revb
Kumamoto City Song Kumamoto City

This is the municipal song of Kumamoto City, established in March 1930 (Showa 5), and it remains deeply loved by local residents.

Surrounded by great natural beauty, Kumamoto City is a town where commerce and industry thrive, enriched with culture and history.

Celebrating Kumamoto’s abundant nature, its ancient castle, the developing commercial districts, and views of Kumamoto Castle, this song is a signature piece that symbolizes Kumamoto City.

Kumamoto Pride SongPi Bou

This piece, which depicts the rich scenery of Kumamoto with a bright, buoyant melody, invites listeners into a cheerful mood.

The somewhat nostalgic sound of folk song blends exquisitely with lively Latin rhythms, evoking the bustle of a Kumamoto festival.

Released as a CD single in July 2013, it stands as a gem of love for Kumamoto that brightens Pi-bō’s early discography.

After the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes, it was sometimes performed with hopes for recovery.

Whether as a companion for a trip to Kumamoto or a moment of homesick reflection, listening to it is sure to warm the heart.

Classic songs about Kumamoto: the heart of our hometown passed down in song (11–20)

Kumamon UmakamonKeropons

This lively song by Keropons is packed with the delicious charms of Kumamoto.

The lyrics feature one Kumamoto specialty after another—like banpeiyu grapefruit, horse sashimi, and ikinari dango—filling both the listener’s heart and stomach.

Debuted at the “Kumamon Birthday Festival” in March 2017, it was included on the DVD “Kumamon Music Video Yoka-mon♪ Selection” in April of the same year, and later on the CD “Kumamon 10th ANNIVERSARY CD & PHOTO BOOK ~Happy & Surprise~” in March 2020.

With adorable, easy-to-copy choreography perfect for children, it’s an ideal song for enjoying and exploring Kumamoto’s food culture.

Come on! Kumamon!Keropons, Sukanpo, Takashi Deguchi

It’s a song packed tightly with Kumamoto’s energy and kindness, guaranteed to bring a smile just by listening.

While it’s a rhythmic kids’ song, it’s also a J-pop-leaning pop tune that adults can enjoy comfortably.

The repeated catchy phrases and uplifting calls capture Kumamon’s charming traits—his energy, kindness, and deep love for Kumamoto—and convey them straight from the heart.

Created to celebrate the landmark 10th anniversary of Kumamon’s debut, it was also included on the album “Kumamon 10th ANNIVERSARY CD & PHOTO BOOK ~Happy & Surprise~.” It’s the kind of track that makes you want to dance with your kids and fills you with a happy feeling.

Aso Love SongLyrics by Yoshiro Matsumoto / Music by Akira Mutsu

It’s a travel-evoking piece that brings to mind the morning and evening mists of Aso and the sight of horses crossing mountain passes.

Lyricist Yoshiro Matsumoto drew inspiration from a trip to Aso in 1948 (Showa 23), and composer Akira Mutsu set his gently nostalgic melody to those verses.

The work is said to have first been released as a record in 1961 (Showa 36), after which it was kept alive by tour bus guides and became a beloved departure melody at JR Aso Station.

Following the Kumamoto Earthquake, it also supported people’s spirits as a song of hope for recovery.

It’s a piece that will resonate deeply when you want to etch the emotions of a journey into your heart or be soothed by a melody that touches your heartstrings.

Sweet Home KumamotoAki Yashiro

When it comes to singers from Kumamoto, it has to be Aki Yashiro from Yatsushiro! This is a track from an album released in 2015.

She’s likely singing while reminiscing about her nostalgic hometown of Yatsushiro.

It’s a very enjoyable song—light, soft, and stylish blues.