![[Local Songs] Recommended tracks packed with Japan’s nationwide classics and hometown pride](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/JSgyHiKESGw/sddefault.jpg)
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 packed with hometown pride from across Japan (1–10)
Kanda RiverPrincess Kaguya
A masterpiece that weaves together the bittersweetness of youth and the urban landscape, this song is a landmark in the history of Japanese folk music.
As one of Kaguya-hime’s signature works, it was released in September 1973 and reached No.
1 on the Oricon weekly chart, selling over 1.
6 million copies.
The lyrics, which portray the pure love of a young couple and their poor yet happy days, resonated deeply with many listeners.
Reflecting the social climate of the time and the feelings of young people, it garnered empathy for its depiction of lives sustained by love.
It’s a must-listen not only for folk music fans but also for anyone nostalgic for their youthful days.
Mikuni Stationaiko
This is a gem-like ballad by aiko that weaves local scenery and memories into its lyrics.
Centered on Osaka’s Mikuni Station, it vividly portrays an unchanging townscape and a nostalgic bowling alley while expressing a bittersweet love hidden in everyday life.
Released in February 2005, the song received high marks on the Oricon charts at the time.
Its promotion also left an impression, with around 100 posters displayed inside Mikuni Station and other attention-grabbing efforts.
Filled with affection for the hometown and memories of youth, this song is perfect for times when you feel like visiting a nostalgic place or looking back on memories with someone special.
Shiretoko Ryojo (Shiretoko Travel Sentiment)Tokiko Kato
Set on the Shiretoko Peninsula in Hokkaido, this gem of a classic portrays the grandeur of nature and the lives of its people.
Tokiko Kato’s gentle yet powerful voice vividly brings Shiretoko’s landscapes to life.
The use of the Ainu word “pirika” also conveys respect for the region’s culture.
Released in November 1970, it topped the Oricon charts for seven consecutive weeks the following year.
It is also known as her debut song on the 22nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
Listening to it while traveling will help you savor Shiretoko’s charm even more.
Its lyrics and melody will surely soothe the soul.
Sakuragichōyuzu
Set against the backdrop of Sakuragicho in Yokohama, this heartwarming song sings of the ache of heartbreak and the growth that follows.
Carried by the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar, Yuzu’s characteristically warm vocals resonate throughout.
Released as a single in June 2004, the track left a deep impression on many listeners, especially Yokohama residents.
Its lyrics, filled with longing for days gone by yet a determination to move forward, offer comfort to anyone who has experienced a farewell.
Why not listen to this song while walking through a place filled with memories of someone dear? It will surely give you the courage to take a new step.
KikyogaokaKen Hirai
A warm song that evokes nostalgia and family love.
Ken Hirai’s gentle voice tenderly embraces a parent’s watchful feelings for their child, richly expressing both the child’s growth and the parent’s unwavering love.
Released in October 2013 as a digital-only single and chosen as the tie-in song for Misawa Homes’ 45th anniversary commercial, this is a track you’ll want to listen to while reminiscing about your hometown.
If parents and children listen together, it may deepen their bond.
Watarase BridgeChisato Moritaka
A signature song by Chisato Moritaka, noted for its evocative imagery that interweaves nostalgia and wistfulness.
Released in January 1993, the track is set on a real bridge in Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture, and expresses lingering feelings for a former lover.
The lyrics, richly reflecting the scenery and everyday life of a regional city, resonated with many and became a major hit.
The artist received a letter of appreciation from the local community, a monument to the song was erected, and it became deeply rooted in the region’s culture.
Conveying a strong affection for one’s hometown and places of memory, this is a song we especially recommend to those who love their local roots or who have experienced parting from someone dear.
Crossing Amagi PassSayuri Ishikawa
Set against the Amagi Pass on the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, this song portrays the burning passion of a woman consumed by a forbidden love.
Released in July 1986 as Sayuri Ishikawa’s 45th single, it initially struggled to gain traction, but through Ishikawa’s steadfast devotion to performing it, the piece eventually became a beloved classic.
It has been performed 13 times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen through 2022, setting the record for the most performances of a single song on the program.
The unwavering love and the fervent emotions of a woman drowning in forbidden romance are powerfully conveyed through Sayuri Ishikawa’s richly expressive singing.