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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, passed down through generations (41–50)

Amakusa Gokyo (Amakusa Five Bridges)Kaori Mizumori

Amakusa Gokyō (with lyrics) by Kaori Mizumori
Kaori Mizumori of the Amakusa Gokyo

The sorrowful heart of a jilted woman, the scenery of Amakusa in Kumamoto, and a wistful melody press upon the chest.

Did she come alone to Amakusa to try to forget her heartbreak? The journey, filled with memories of joyful days that can never return, is bittersweet, and one cannot help but wish for her happiness.

A classic song about Kumamoto: the enduring heart of our hometown (51–60)

Song of the Castle TownYumi Nagahama

Yumi-chan, as she’s affectionately known, is an enka singer from Tokushima Prefecture.

Though she gives a youthful impression, she’s actually a veteran who debuted in 1975 after working as an office lady.

Her song “Jokamachi Enka,” brimming with her charm, was created to support recovery from the Kumamoto earthquakes and conveys the appeal of Kumamoto, incorporating the local dialect.

The melody has a warm, classic enka feel, making it a very approachable track.

I love it! Kumamoto FireSuzanne

I Love It! Kumamoto Fire / Suzanne [PV]
I love you! Kumamoto Fire Suzanne

This is a song by Suzanne, a celebrity from Kumamoto Prefecture.

She created it as a PR song because she wants more people to discover the charms of her beloved hometown, Kumamoto.

It’s an uplifting track with lovely lyrics that sing about Kumamoto’s captivating tourist spots and delicious local specialties.

The composer is Hanawa, who is from Saga Prefecture in Kyushu.

Woman of AmakusaYuri Harada

Woman of Amakusa ~with Amakusa Kouta~
Yuri Harada, the woman from Amakusa

A woman living in Amakusa and her love for a fisherman.

Though she is desperately in love, it portrays the aching feelings of a woman who must not leave Amakusa.

The line about how, with time, she’ll surely be able to forget, so just a single postcard will do, is so touching and heartrending.

Amakusa Pure HeartJiro Amakusa

Amakusa Pure Heart (Vocals: Jiro Amakusa)
Amakusa Pure Love Amakusa Jiro

This is a song by Jiro Amakusa, an enka singer from Amakusa City.

Mr.

Amakusa has also performed other songs themed around Kumamoto.

His debut song, “Amakusa Katagi,” and this song are known as the Amakusa Series.

It’s a powerful piece that portrays the pure-hearted nature of a straightforward, rough-around-the-edges man from Kumamoto.

Kumamoto Castle (Black Château)Kumamoto Monsters

Kumamoto Castle – Black Château / Kumamoto Monsters
Kumamoto Castle (Black Château) Kumamoto Monsters

It’s a song that depicts scenes of Kumamoto Castle intertwined with a playful romance.

It’s full of lines and lyrics that will make you chuckle—perfect for the cheerful people of Kumamoto.

The subtle choreography and facial expressions are amusing too.

I can easily imagine everyone singing it together, lively and excited, all around Kumamoto.

In conclusion

We introduced songs filled with a deep love for Kumamoto.

From reconstruction support songs to local tunes and theme songs for local mascots—why not let your thoughts drift to Kumamoto through the wonderful music born from its climate and culture? As you find yourself replaying your favorite tracks, you might just realize you’ve set foot in Kumamoto before you know it.