A classic song about Nagano. The enduring spirit of our hometown passed down through song.

Chikumagawa RiverHiroshi Itsuki

Chikuma River

Chikuma River, which accounts for 60% of the Shinano River—the longest river in Japan—has long had its surrounding natural beauty celebrated in poetry, from the Man’yōshū to works by Toson Shimazaki.

Hiroshi Itsuki’s “Chikuma River” was the final performance at the 1997 year-end NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, in part because it was just before the Nagano Olympics.

The lyrics of “Chikuma River”, too, sing of an unchangingly beautiful current and the nostalgic mood of Shinano, intertwined with memories of a first love.

Azusagawa, Shinano RoadMasako Mori

Shinano Route, Azusa River

Nagano has many beautiful mountains, and in particular, the beauty of the Azusa River flowing through Kamikochi—one of Japan’s premier scenic spots in the Northern Alps—is something that anyone who has traveled there will feel compelled to share with someone.

This song is a bright tune about a woman traveling alone who wishes to one day share that same moving experience with someone she loves.

Masako Mori, who debuted at age 13 with the song “Sensei,” has also become very feminine and beautiful compared to back then.

Kisogawa MirenTakiko Mizuta

[Promotion Video] Ryuko Mizuta / Kiso River Miren

There are quite a few male singers who have turned the journey along the 69 stations of the Nakasendō into songs, but this one is a female version.

Ena is in Gifu Prefecture, so the inn might have been either Tsumago or Magome, which are post towns in Nagano Prefecture and popular tourist spots.

The Kiso River flows through Nagano, Gifu, and Aichi, so you can trace the route of the journey.

As expected, most local songs tend to be enka.

hometownsong

Furusato (♪ The mountain where we chased rabbits ~) by Himawari ×4 [Chorus] With Lyrics [One of Japan’s 100 Famous Songs] FURUSATO Hometown |

Blue mountains, pure waters, and memories of childhood play.

The gentle melody that wraps these scenes of a beloved hometown, along with feelings for family and friends living far away, holds a universal appeal that resonates with everyone.

First published in 1914 as a Ministry of Education school song, this piece was created by Tatsuyuki Takano and Teiichi Okano, vividly reflecting the rural landscapes and lifestyles of Japan at the time.

It was sung at the closing ceremony of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, moving countless people.

Its simple, memorable melody in G major and triple meter continues to be sung at life’s milestones, such as graduation and coming-of-age ceremonies.

With lyrics and melody that evoke nostalgia, it is truly a song that stands by all who live away from their hometowns—a work that can be said to symbolize the heart of Japan.

Kiso is in the mountains.Yuki Katsuragi

Kiso Is in the Mountains / Katsuragi Yuki

Yuki Katsuragi, known for her impactful vocals in “Bohemian,” surprisingly also has songs with a folk-song feel.

It’s a classic about a woman traveling alone who is moved by the quiet, unassuming nature deep in the Kiso mountains.

It’s unclear whether she’s heartbroken or her lover is so free-spirited that they can’t meet often, but it’s a masterpiece about longing for someone you love.

Young Lady of the PlateauKazuo Funaki

Miss of the Highland (Kazuo Funaki)

“The Girl from the Highlands” is a coming-of-age film from 1965 starring Kazuo Funaki and Masako Izumi, set against the backdrop of the Tateshina Highlands.

In the lyrics, the only clue that vaguely suggests Nagano is the mention of white birch trees, but the film is unmistakably set in Tateshina, Nagano Prefecture.

By the way, Masako Izumi was truly beautiful in her younger days.

Tenryu GorgeKaori Mizumori

Tenryū Gorge / Kaori Mizumori Cover: Eiko Yamaguchi

There’s a narrow footpath in the Tenryu River gorge that runs through Iida City, Nagano Prefecture.

I’m sure the protagonist of the poem must have walked this path.

In that melancholy poem about parting, it says that ringing a bell lifted their spirits a little, and if you cross the Tsutsuji Bridge at the end of this path, there’s a small “Bell of Happiness.” Naturally, it’s said that ringing it will bring you good fortune.

I’d recommend it more as a dating spot than a place for farewells.