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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Masterpieces that sing of Niigata: the enduring spirit of our hometown (11–20)
Okesa StraitKaori Uesugi
Kaori Uesugi’s song “Okesa Kaikyō” is about a woman who keeps waiting for someone dear to her.
Released in 2008, it exquisitely weaves together Sado’s scenery with the woman’s aching emotions.
Its evocative melody and Uesugi’s crystal-clear voice resonate deeply.
Guiding listeners back to their memories, this piece lets anyone—not just those familiar with Niigata—feel the beauty of Japan.
If you’re in the mood for nostalgia or can’t forget a past love, please give it a listen.
Oh person of NiigataKotaro Satomi
Satomi Kotaro’s signature song “Niigata no Hito yo,” which reflects the climate and sentiment of Niigata, has been loved by many listeners since its release on May 25, 2005.
Satomi’s warm vocals poignantly convey feelings for the person left behind in Niigata.
The lyrics, sprinkled with place names such as Bandai Bridge and Yanagi Koji—icons of Niigata—evoke nostalgia and give voice to the yearning for a distant hometown.
It’s sure to resonate with anyone far from home who longs for where they came from.
Song of Mr. LerchSpur Music Band
“Reruhi-san” is a yuru-chara (mascot character) modeled after Major Theodor von Lerch, an Austrian military officer who introduced skiing to Takada City.
The “Spur Music Band” is a group formed to sing this song, consisting of elementary school students in Niigata City who attend Yamaha Music School.
The Four Seasons of TakadaDuke Aces
It is said that the song began around 1945, when Mr.
Taro Machida, a teacher at what is now Takada High School (then the prefectural Takada Middle School), created it for students who were in a state of lethargy right after the war.
After the Duke Aces sang it, it gradually came to be popularly loved and widely sung.
Echigo-Yuzawa StationShin Kohda
Released on February 12, 2007.
This song is themed around a woman’s feelings of love and is set at Echigo-Yuzawa Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen.
To commemorate the release, a station bento called “Rindō Kamameshi,” produced by Shin Koda, was also launched by the local boxed-lunch vendor Kawatakeken.
My Lonesome TownYumi Matsutoya
Released on June 21, 1982.
It is said to describe a scene witnessed on an off-day during a concert tour held in the cold winter months.
The lyrics mention “Nakhodka,” which is the name of a Russian city on the Sea of Japan.
It’s a song about a cold, clear day when you could see that far.
A classic song that sings of Niigata: The enduring heart of our hometown (21–30)
If I sing the OkesaYukio Hashi
Released on October 5, 1960.
This song incorporates Sado’s representative folk tune “Sado Okesa,” making it a familiar piece for residents of Niigata Prefecture.
A film titled “Okesa Utaeba,” with this song as its theme and starring Yukio Hashi, was produced and reportedly released on July 19, 1961.