[Local Songs] Recommended tracks packed with Japan’s nationwide classics and hometown pride
Across Japan, there are many “local songs” created around themes like regional climate and traditions, long-standing customs, hometown pride, and specialty foods.
However, few people are likely familiar with songs from places far from their own living area or hometown.
Some might even have spent years in a region without knowing its local songs at all.
In this article, we’ll introduce some highly impactful, must-hear local songs from across Japan that we hope many of you will get to know.
If it’s a place you’ve visited, try listening while picturing the local scenery.
If it’s somewhere you’ve never been, let the song help you imagine the land and the lives of the people who live there.
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[Local Songs] Must-Listen Tracks Filled with Hometown Pride from Across Japan (91–100)
Kunisaki PeninsulaHiroko Matsumae
Kokuto Peninsula, sung by Hiroko Matsumae, is a lyrical enka that deeply evokes the travel romance of Oita.
Composed by her husband, Hiroshi Yamaguchi, the song features a memorable melody that gently reflects the scenery of one’s hometown in the listener’s heart.
It was passionately performed by a character in the film Tsuribaka Nisshi 19, so even if you don’t know the title, you may have heard it somewhere.
Inspired by this song, Matsumae was also appointed a tourism goodwill ambassador for Kunisaki City.
Her richly expressive voice blends with the beautiful scenes of the peninsula depicted in the lyrics, making you feel as if you’re traveling there yourself.
Bungo PilgrimageHiroko Matsumae
Hiroko Matsumae’s song “Bungo Junrei” features famous hot spring destinations like Beppu, Yufuin, and Kokonoe, as well as castle towns such as Taketa and Nakatsu, making you feel as if you’re traveling along with it.
A line that skillfully conveys a woman’s allure also brings out the quiet, tender atmosphere of a journey.
It also sings of savoring seasonal delicacies in the port towns along the Bungo Channel, making it a piece that vividly reflects Oita’s character.
Listening to this song while visiting the area might make your trip all the more rich and memorable.
[Local/Regional Songs] Must-listen tracks brimming with hometown pride from across Japan (101–110)
Yunohira UjōNatsumi Mizuki
Set in Yufuin’s famed Yufuta Onsen in Oita Prefecture, this song by Natsumi Mizuki celebrates cherished moments with a loved one.
You can almost picture the nostalgic stone-paved hot spring town.
As lanterns light up the evening, the warmth of two people walking close together gently comes through in Mizuki’s emotionally rich vocals.
The scene is so beautifully drawn it feels like gazing at a landscape painting.
Many listeners will likely find themselves empathizing with the heartwarming romance while soaking in the serene ambience of Yufuta Onsen.
It’s a classic that stirs a yearning to travel to Oita.
Miyazaki Tegetegete OndoDaisuke Mizuki
Sung by Daisuke Mizuki, whose deep love for his hometown of Miyazaki shines through, this is an irresistibly cheerful ondō (festive dance) song.
It’s also known for having lyrics written by Hideo Higashikokubaru, who was the governor of Miyazaki Prefecture at the time.
“Tege tege” is a Miyazaki dialect term meaning “moderately” or “take it easy.” The lyrics are filled with quintessential Miyazaki imagery—shochu, lush nature, and more—evoking the region’s easygoing character.
Listening to the lively rhythms of shamisen and taiko, you may feel as if you’re taking part in a local festival.
It’s easy to see why it became an anthem beloved by the people of the prefecture.
Cape HyugaKaori Mizumori
This is a song by Kaori Mizumori, the “Queen of Local Songs,” set in Hyuga City, Miyazaki Prefecture, where she serves as a tourism ambassador.
It portrays the feelings of a woman who visits Cape Hyuga alone, trying to overcome the sorrow of parting.
The lyrics are wonderful, seeming to symbolize hope for the future even amid heartache, and Mizumori’s emotionally rich vocals blend with the sound of the Hyuga-nada waves and the sea breeze, making you feel as if you’re right there.
It’s a piece that stirs a longing to travel to Miyazaki.
Highland RomanceRyuun Nagai
This is a song that could be called a “hometown hymn,” crafted by singer-songwriter Ryuun Nagai with deep affection for Takaharu Town in Miyazaki Prefecture.
Born out of a 2010 live performance, the piece weaves together the town’s history, abundant nature, and even its culture with care.
As you listen to Nagai’s lyrical, faintly wistful voice, you can almost see the tranquil scenery spread out at the foot of the majestic Kirishima mountain range.
The warm feelings for his hometown may speak not only to local residents, but also to many who hold Miyazaki close to their hearts.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to reminisce about your travels.
Song of Nagano PrefectureKurumi Asakura
A heartwarming song by Kurumi Asakura that openly sings of her love for her hometown, surrounded by the mountains of Shinshu.
The lyrics, sprinkled with scenes of Nagano’s beautiful landscapes and local anecdotes, convey a deep nostalgia for the days spent in her hometown.
Carefully crafted over the course of about a year, this work is a piece overflowing with love for Nagano.
Its bright, approachable melody will resonate deeply not only with those from Nagano Prefecture, but also with anyone living away from their hometown.