[Kyoto Songs] Masterpieces that sing about Kyoto — songs themed on the ancient capital. The enduring heart of our hometown passed down in song.
Here we introduce songs that are about Kyoto or use it as a theme!
Even if a song doesn’t seem like it’s about Kyoto at first glance, some tracks include related keywords in the lyrics, such as “Kamo River.”
It does feel like there are many enka and kayōkyoku numbers, but it turns out there are similar songs in more recent pop and rock as well.
Kyoto is, after all, a city with a long history.
Having flourished as the capital, it’s indispensable for understanding Japan.
With its refined, traditional atmosphere and picturesque scenery, Kyoto is truly captivating.
Take your time and enjoy these wonderful Kyoto songs that will stir your hometown pride.
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[Kyoto Songs] Masterpieces that sing of Kyoto and songs that made it their theme: The heart of our hometown passed down in song (11–20)
Welcome to Kyoto, y’all! (dosue~ okoshi-yasu Kyoto~)Yabai T-Shirts Yasan
“Dosue ~Okoshiyasu Kyoto~” by Yabai T-Shirts Yasan—known for their energetic, catchy numbers—is a song that portrays both a longing for Kyoto and the inner conflict of whether one can truly fit into its unique culture.
The lyrics are sprinkled with Kyoto touchstones like yatsuhashi, bubuzuke, and Kiyomizu-dera, expressing their feelings toward the city through the band’s signature comedic lens.
With exhilarating guitars and dual vocals, it’s a track that feels great to listen to and is perfect for when you want to get pumped up!
Hiei OroshiKeiko Kobayashi
The song Hiei Oroshi was originally released in 1980 by Satoshi Kishida, who had a hit with Kimi no Asa, and it was written and composed by him.
He is also an actor, and apparently he was offered the lead role in the TV drama Mr.
Kinpachi in Class 3-B before Tetsuya Takeda was chosen.
The way the lyrics squeeze in extra syllables gives the song a very cool feel, and many artists have covered it.
Alone in KyotoMari Amachi
The song “Kyoto de Hitori” is the B-side of Mari Amachi’s 13th single, “Ai no Album.” Amachi is known for her big hits “Koi Suru Natsu no Hi” and “Hitorijanai no.” The song tells the story of setting off alone to Kyoto after much thought, only to realize she’ll return to you in the end.
It continues the musical direction aimed at moving beyond her idol image.
Sagano, softly rustlingdandelion
This song was once used as the commercial jingle for a kimono company inspired by Kyoto’s Sagano district, and many people above a certain age have probably heard it at least once.
It was sung and made famous by Tanpopo, a sister folk duo active in the late 1970s.
The lyrics were written by Akira Ito, and the music was composed by Asei Kobayashi.
Night in KyotoKenji Aida
This is the second single by singer Kenji Aida, who hails from Kyoto Prefecture.
In addition, his songs include “Kogane no Kinkaku-ji” (The Golden Pavilion in a Light Rain), which sings about Kyoto, and “Girl of Lake Biwa,” which is about neighboring Shiga Prefecture.
This song has been covered by many other singers and is one of the best-known local songs of Kyoto that everyone recognizes.
Ah, the ShinsengumiMichiya Mihashi
“Ah, Shinsengumi” is a song by Michiya Mihashi released in 1955.
The Shinsengumi was a “militant organization” that cracked down on anti-shogunate forces in Kyoto during the late Edo period, and it has continued to serve as the subject of numerous novels, films, and stage productions.
Fans of corps members such as Isami Kondo, Toshizo Hijikata, and Soji Okita still exist today, and Kyoto is home to many “sacred sites.”
[Kyoto Songs] Masterpieces That Sing of Kyoto and Songs That Made It Their Theme: The Enduring Heart of Our Hometown (21–30)
Girl from KyotoNaoko Ken
When it comes to songs about Kyoto from the Showa era, many lean toward mellow enka-style numbers, but this standout is a catchy pop tune.
This song, Naoko Ken’s fourth single, features lyrics by Yuu Aku and composition/arrangement by Koichi Morita.
It’s a regional-themed song that seems to carry on the momentum of the previous year’s Japan National Railways (now JR) campaign, and its lyrics mention numerous famous sightseeing spots in Kyoto.