[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.
- [2025] Masterpieces that sing of Hokkaido: The enduring heart of our homeland passed down in song
- [Songs of Saitama] A Wealth of Humor-Filled Classics! Local Anthems Packed with Love for Saitama
- [Song of Osaka] A selection of passionate, warm-hearted Osaka tunes
- [Hometown Songs] A curated selection of popular Japanese tracks that fill your heart with nostalgia
- [Kyoto Songs] Masterpieces that sing about Kyoto — songs themed on the ancient capital. The enduring heart of our hometown passed down in song.
- A famous song about Fukuoka. The heart of the hometown passed down through song.
- A classic song that celebrates Niigata. The enduring spirit of our hometown passed down through song.
- Songs about Tokyo: A Collection of Popular J‑Pop Classics [2025]
- Introducing Classic Songs About Shizuoka: Local Anthems and Popular Hits [2025]
- [Songs of Kagoshima] The heart of our hometown carried on in song | A curated selection of classic tracks that embody Kagoshima
- A classic song about Nagano. The enduring spirit of our hometown passed down through song.
- A classic song that sings of Nagasaki: the enduring heart of our hometown
- Songs related to Mie Prefecture. Beloved local tunes of Mie that continue to be cherished.
[Local Songs] Must-listen tracks from across Japan: beloved classics and hometown-pride picks (151–160)
Hakata MirenGoro Noguchi
So it was full-on enka, huh? Since it was called a debut song, she must have been in her teens, skilfully pulling off a slightly mature song.
It made me once again appreciate how remarkable her vocal ability has been up to today.
It seems she hasn’t sung enka since then, but I felt that she excels both in pop and in enka.
Aomori ElegyAine Honma
This work overlays the protagonist’s bittersweet feelings, after visiting the hometown of a former lover, with the harsh winter scenery of Aomori.
Maina Homma’s heartrending vocals leave a deep impression on listeners.
Released in January 2024, this track is the coupling song on Homma’s first single since moving to King Records.
The music video, filmed in Sotogahama, Aomori Prefecture, also attracted attention.
It’s a song that resonates with those living away from their hometowns—one you’ll want to play on a quiet winter night.
The vocals, filled with love for Aomori, are sure to warm your heart.
Cape Tappi of the WindMasaru Fukumoto
Featuring the distinctive sound of the Tsugaru shamisen, this work is a soul-stirring Tohoku enka set against the windswept backdrop of Cape Tappi.
Released in January 2024, it marks Masaru Fukumoto’s third single and his first in five years.
The lyrics, which capture a heart wavering between parting and reunion, are sure to resonate with many.
They tell a sad yet beautiful story of lost love and hope, set alongside the scenic vistas of Cape Tappi.
It’s a recommended track for those who long for their hometown or wish to reflect on the past.
When you listen, don’t you feel you might touch the power of nature and the beautiful moments preserved in memory—and find a renewed sense of hope to move forward?
For some reason, Saitama.Saitamanzō
When I first heard it, I burst out laughing.
The amateurish vocals feel relatable.
At first it struck me as a joke.
But within the simple lyrics, I feel it’s a song overflowing with love for Saitama.
It’s a song that looks squarely at everything about Saitama.
The bittersweet lyrics make you want people across Japan to take an interest.
Wonderful.
Tokyo WomanThe Peanuts
So it was a song by Kenji Sawada.
The melody puts you in a romantic mood.
Various major spots in Tokyo pop up here and there, which is fun too.
The light, breezy feel is very Peanuts-like and works well.
It also reminds me how wonderful the harmonies are.
I think the unforced singing style is nice as well.
Cape ErimoChiyoko Shimakura
Although it’s quite a different world from Shinichi Mori’s song of the same title, I think this piece makes beautiful use of the high notes.
You can feel the chill of the cape.
The consistently pure feeling comes through in the voice, which I found appealing.
I’ve heard there’s even a monument inscribed with the lyrics at the cape.
It shows how beloved this song is.
[Local Songs] Must-Listen Tracks from Across Japan Filled with Beloved Classics and Hometown Pride (161–170)
Isezakicho BluesMina Aoe
I’ve heard that Ms.
Aoe had a boyish personality, but I think she did a wonderful job singing a very sultry song—the kind you almost feel you shouldn’t be listening to.
Her husky voice made me want to hear her tackle authentic blues as well.
It feels like a waste that she was only a pop singer; if she were still with us today, I wonder what kinds of songs she would be singing.