A classic song about Oita. The enduring spirit of our hometown [2025]

Kunisaki PeninsulaHiroko Matsumae

Kunisaki Peninsula

Kokuto Peninsula, sung by Hiroko Matsumae, is a lyrical enka that deeply evokes the travel romance of Oita.

Composed by her husband, Hiroshi Yamaguchi, the song features a memorable melody that gently reflects the scenery of one’s hometown in the listener’s heart.

It was passionately performed by a character in the film Tsuribaka Nisshi 19, so even if you don’t know the title, you may have heard it somewhere.

Inspired by this song, Matsumae was also appointed a tourism goodwill ambassador for Kunisaki City.

Her richly expressive voice blends with the beautiful scenes of the peninsula depicted in the lyrics, making you feel as if you’re traveling there yourself.

Bungo PilgrimageHiroko Matsumae

Bungo Pilgrimage

Hiroko Matsumae’s song “Bungo Junrei” features famous hot spring destinations like Beppu, Yufuin, and Kokonoe, as well as castle towns such as Taketa and Nakatsu, making you feel as if you’re traveling along with it.

A line that skillfully conveys a woman’s allure also brings out the quiet, tender atmosphere of a journey.

It also sings of savoring seasonal delicacies in the port towns along the Bungo Channel, making it a piece that vividly reflects Oita’s character.

Listening to this song while visiting the area might make your trip all the more rich and memorable.

all alonePrincess Kaguya

Kaguya-hime Alone 2005

This song, included on the B-side of the single “Boku wa Nani o Yattemo Dame na Otoko desu” released by the folk group Kaguyahime in 1972, is about Takenaka Station in Ōita City.

It was also included on the album “Hajimemashite.” This video features a version performed in 2005.

Moon over the Ruined CastleFORESTA

Foresta Music Collection 20 — Listening Comparison 1 — “Kojo no Tsuki”

“Kōjō no Tsuki” is one of Rentarō Taki’s signature works, a song that sings of the rise and fall of fortunes.

It is included in music textbooks, so many people are likely familiar with it.

Taki is said to have conceived the piece at the ruins of Oka Castle in Taketa City, Ōita Prefecture, where a statue of him now stands.

Strolling Trip around the Kunisaki PeninsulaNaomi Sara

Strolling Trip around the Kunisaki Peninsula

This is a song about the Kunisaki Peninsula, located in the northeastern part of Oita Prefecture and selected as one of Japan’s 100 hidden scenic spots.

It is one of the tracks included on Naomi Sagara’s 2010 best-of album, “Golden☆Best Deluxe.”

Wandering Song of Mount KujuYusuke Tominaga

Yusuke Tominaga — Kokonoe Town / Kokonoe “Yume” Grand Suspension Bridge Image Song: “Kokonoe Mountain Strolling Song”

Located in the west-central part of Oita Prefecture, Kokonoe Town is home to Japan’s tallest pedestrian-only bridge, the Kokonoe “Yume” Otsurihashi, which has attracted over 10 million visitors.

Its image song is Kokonoe-san Shoyoka, sung by Yusuke Tominaga.

This video shows a concert held in 2013.

Kunisaki NostalgiaTatsunori Fuse

The King of Minami Theatrical Version 12: Reverse Inheritance – Insert Song “Kunisaki Yearning,” sung by Tatsunori Fuse

This is also a song themed around the Kunisaki Peninsula, and the singer Tatsunori Fuse is primarily a celebrity impressionist who has at times been counted as one of the Four Heavenly Kings of impersonators.

It was used as an insert song in the theatrical version of The King of Minami, so some people may know it from there.