[Kyoto Songs] Masterpieces that sing about Kyoto — songs themed on the ancient capital. The enduring heart of our hometown passed down in song.

Kyoto is crying.Michiya Mihashi

Kyoto Song 37: Kyoto Is Crying - Michiya Mihashi

This song is a single by Michiya Mihashi released in 1974.

He hadn’t had a hit since 1969’s “Naruto Kaikyō,” but it drew attention for the first time in a while, including a performance on NHK’s “Hiru no Present.” Mihashi’s clear, expansive vocals are captivating.

Songs about Kyoto, perhaps thanks to the allure of the Kyoto brand, make you want to give them a listen.

Hard to leave KyotoShinichi Mori

Hard to leave Kyoto - Shinichi Mori UPE-0030

“Kyoto Sarigatashi” is a song released by Shinichi Mori in May 1988.

The lyrics were written by Masao Urino, and the composition was done by Shinichi Mori himself.

The song fervently and poignantly expresses a deep longing for Kyoto, where a woman recalls memories of the man who left her.

From Kyoto to HakataKeiko Fuji

From Kyoto to Hakata — Keiko Fuji

“From Kyoto to Hakata” is a record by Keiko Fuji released in January 1972.

It was a single whose A-side featured lyrics by lyricist Yū Aku for the first time in Fuji’s career, with composition by Kimihiko Inomata.

The song portrays a woman’s feelings as she boards a train to chase after the man she loves, traveling from Kyoto to Hakata, while also depicting the scenery outside the train window.

Marutake EbisuToshiko Ezaki

Toshiko Ezaki _ Maru Take Ebisu

Often called the “Song of Kyoto’s Street Names,” this piece that begins with Marutake Ebi is passed down both as a children’s song and as a sung map for learning the streets.

There is also a version for the east–west streets, and when people from Kyoto lose their way, they almost invariably hum this tune to check the streets.

This video features an arrangement and performance by Toshiko Ezaki, who is from Kyoto.

But, Julie.ROSA LUXEMBURG

But, Julie.

From the 1960s to the 1980s, there was a homeless man who would always wander around the Kawaramachi area of Kyoto.

Everyone affectionately called him “Kawaramachi’s Julie,” likening him to the singer Julie from their hometown.

He passed away in 1984.

In 1986, the Kyoto-born band ROSA LUXEMBURG released a song depicting this very Julie.

Song of Rambling

Crimson Aflame (with added lyrics) Midoriza Sato sings the promenade song of the former Third Higher School

The Song of Rambling is a dormitory anthem of the former Third Higher School (now Kyoto University).

The opening words, “Kurenai moyuru” (Crimson blazing), have become a de facto title for the piece, and even after the postwar transition to the new Kyoto University, it has continued to be sung by students.

Along with “Aa Tamahai” from the former First Higher School and “Miyako zo Yayoi” from the Preparatory Course of Hokkaido Imperial University, it is sometimes regarded as one of the Three Great Japanese Dormitory Songs.