A classic song that sings of Toyama. The enduring heart of our hometown.
Located in the center of Honshu, Toyama Prefecture has a large area facing the Sea of Japan and is rich in marine resources.
Toyama is also a region with a long history, where many folk songs have survived to the present day, led by Japan’s oldest folk song, “Kokiriko-bushi.”
In this article, we’ll introduce local songs from Toyama, including traditional folk songs passed down through the ages, as well as enka and kayōkyoku inspired by famous sights in the prefecture.
If you live in the area, you might find some especially familiar tunes.
Be sure to read to the end!
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A famous song that sings of Toyama. The heart of our hometown, passed down through song (1–10)
Enjara-bushi
Enjara-bushi is a traditional Bon Odori folk song handed down in Tonami City, Toyama Prefecture.
The song is thought to have originated from the chant “Enyara,” used in Bon dance songs that have long been passed down in the eastern part of the prefecture, including Harihara in Toyama City.
In the Nambahannya district of Tonami City, the local dance group Nambahannya Odoran-kai regularly holds practice sessions of Enjara-bushi to pass the region’s culture on to the next generation.
Held annually since 2006, these sessions allow local children to learn the dance from community residents.
Toyama Prefectural Residents' SongTomiharu Kurosaka
The Toyama Prefectural Anthem is a song that engraves Toyama’s rich nature and culture in our hearts.
With lyrics by Toshio Tsujimoto and music by Ryoji Makino, it was created to celebrate Toyama’s majestic natural beauty and to strengthen the bonds and hopes of its people, and was released in 1958.
Ever since, it has remained an enduring masterpiece beloved by residents across the prefecture.
Its deeply moving melody and lyrics invite listeners on a journey through Toyama’s landscapes and history, bringing warmth to everyday life.
It’s especially recommended for those who want to discover their hometown’s song anew or who wish to reminisce about local memories.
Be diligent! AsahiTakahara Ani, Dōyō Mahiru
Weaving together rich nature and the warm heart of its community, “Mamename! Asahi” sings abundantly of the charms of Asahi Town in Toyama Prefecture.
The soothing harmonies by Ani Takahara and Mahiru Michiyou vividly depict the town’s everyday life and festivals, drawing listeners right into the scene.
This song is also included on Ani Takahara’s album “Ani Takahara Toyama Collection,” released in celebration of his 30th debut anniversary in 2022.
Its pastoral vibe is perfect for time spent with family and friends!
A classic song that sings of Toyama: The enduring heart of our hometown (11–20)
Nojita Ondo
Nojita Odori is a Bon dance held mainly in Imizu City, Toyama Prefecture.
The sight of townspeople gathering and dancing through the streets is also called “machinagashi.” The song used to enliven this Bon dance is Nojita Ondo.
It depicts people walking through the town leading their hikiyama festival floats, accompanied by a lively, rhythmic performance.
The vocals, carried by the friendly tones of traditional Japanese instruments, are further energized by the addition of chorus, conveying the heightening excitement.
It’s a folk song that evokes the joyful festival scenes of Nojita Odori.
Love Song of Kaze no BonSayuri Ishikawa
This piece, Kazenobon Koiuta, sung by Sayuri Ishikawa, was created based on a romance novel.
Released as a single in 1989, it became a hit and drew attention when it was performed as the closing act at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
Since the novel is set in Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture, the song follows that setting as well.
Even knowing they cannot be together, the narrator can’t bear to part from the one they love… The painful longing comes through and squeezes your heart.
Ishikawa’s rich, seductive voice also perfectly matches the song’s atmosphere.
Me-kuwa chirimen bushi
“Mekuwa Chirimen-bushi” is a traditional spinning song originating in Tateyama, Toyama Prefecture, with roots dating back to the Tenshō era (1573–1592).
Born from the craft of weaving, the song transformed into a festival dance tune in the early Shōwa period.
Through changing times, it has remained beloved by locals for its gentle melody and heartwarming tune.
It vividly reflects the life and culture rooted in Toyama and is sure to resonate not only with local residents but with anyone who hears it.
Snow in HimiYuri Harada
Yuri Harada’s “Himi no Yuki” is a song released on February 25, 2004 that richly evokes winter in Toyama Prefecture.
Set against a port town backdrop, it portrays a heartrending love that grips the listener’s heart.
The sorrow of heartbreak is reflected in snowy scenery, with delicate emotions unique to a woman woven into the melody.
Her voice, tinged with a certain nostalgia, feels like Toyama’s nature itself.
Listening on a winter night may deepen its allure even more.