A classic song that celebrates Niigata. The enduring spirit of our hometown passed down through song.
When you think of Niigata, you think of Koshihikari rice! But this time, I’d like to introduce some songs themed around Niigata.
We’ve gathered a variety: enka that sings of the particular loneliness of snowy regions, songs inspired by folk music, and funky tunes that convey Niigata’s greatness.
For those who live in Niigata or lived there as children, some of these tracks may bring back memories.
Each song showcases what makes Niigata wonderful, so be sure to listen while checking out the lyrics.
A selection of Niigata songs, just for you!
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A classic song about Niigata. The enduring heart of our hometown (1–10)
Yes My TNNCircus, Risa Yamamoto
This is a familiar image song for the people of Niigata, created to coincide with the launch of TV Niigata (TeNY), which began broadcasting on April 1, 1981.
It’s said that the station promoted the new TV channel by airing a youthful station break featuring young people inflating a hot-air balloon.
I love you, NiigataLos Primos, Hideki Yamagishi
This song was written and composed in 1981 by the same Yamagishi brothers as “Niigata Blues.” Apparently, Mr.
Yamagishi himself sang it at first, but after Los Primos performed it, it seems to have become widely known in karaoke and elsewhere as “Los Primos’ I Love You, Niigata.”
Omanta BayashiHaruo Minami
Released in 1975.
Haruo Minami, who hails from Koshiji Town in Mishima District (now Nagaoka City), created many works connected to Niigata.
The word “omanta,” repeated many times in the song and likely to stick in your head, is a Niigata dialect term meaning “you all.”
Masterpieces that sing of Niigata: the enduring spirit of our hometown (11–20)
Shinano RiverMaiko Takigawa
Released on January 15, 2003.
This song, inspired by Japan’s longest river, the Shinano River, is also known for topping the Oricon enka chart for four consecutive weeks.
Its lyrics beautifully express how the grand, flowing Shinano River envelops the cold of winter and the sorrow of parting.
Rainy Night TrainTeruo Ikeda
Teruo Ikeda’s song “Ame no Yogisha” (Night Train in the Rain) is a single released on March 11, 2009.
It sings of the regretful feelings of recalling a past lover when seeing a woman on a train and wondering why they ever broke up.
Railway lines in Niigata Prefecture appear in the lyrics, which may evoke nostalgic memories for those whose hometown is Niigata.
Although the opening lyrics are wistful, the ending is filled with hope and conveys a sense of strength.
If you’re familiar with the actual lines or stations, be sure to listen while picturing them in your mind.
Snow Shoveling Cheer Songbamboo grass daruma
Sasa Daruma is an unofficial Niigata mascot character inspired by Niigata souvenirs: “sasadango” (bamboo-leaf-wrapped rice cakes) and “snowmen.” Apparently, it features Japan’s first snow-shoveling-themed song.
It’s an up-tempo track that seems perfect for helping you power through the hard, heavy work.
Ojiya Koi Song
“Ojiya Koi-uta,” a song that captures the sentimental scenery of Niigata, is a track Mondeo created with heartfelt hometown pride.
Released in 2021, it pairs lyrics that vividly convey the charms of Ojiya City with an upbeat melody, and its especially catchy chorus hook grips listeners and won’t let go.
This beautiful blend of music and locality is highly recommended not only for those who want to reminisce about Niigata or who love their hometown, but also for anyone eager to discover how wonderful Niigata is.