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)
Woman of EtchuYoko Tomita
Onnakoku Etchu depicts the heartrending love story of a woman who falls in love by Matsukawa in Etchu, the area that corresponds to present-day Toyama Prefecture.
Masashi Kaga, known for creating numerous folk songs, wrote both the lyrics and the music.
Its beautiful yet somehow fleeting melody evokes a traditional Japanese atmosphere, while Yoko Tomita’s vocals resonate throughout.
Places like Himi and Matsukawa in Toyama Prefecture appear in the narrative, and the love story of a traveling woman invites a range of emotions.
This folk song, set in Toyama, celebrates the joy of meeting the person with whom one will share a lifetime.
Sky of my hometownJoe Hisaishi
Furusato no Sora, composed by Joe Hisaishi, is a gem unveiled in 2012 that weaves the beautiful nature of Toyama Prefecture and the hearts of its people into music.
This piece pairs lyrics, additionally written by Toyama native Akira Sudo, with Hisaishi’s delicate composition, creating a work that instills pride in Toyama.
Its nostalgic melody evokes the changing scenery of the four seasons and conveys the warmth of one’s hometown.
It’s a moving masterpiece recommended not only for the people of Toyama, but for anyone who wishes to feel the pull of nostalgia.
Stray KokirikoShohei Nariyo
“Hagure Kokiriko” is a hit song performed by enka singer Shohei Naruse, released in 1999, and it has remained a long-loved local anthem.
It won the Composer’s Award at the 41st Japan Record Awards and the Composer’s Award at the 32nd Japan Cable Radio Awards.
Toyama is a nice place.Akira Matsudaira
Akira Matsudaira’s “Toyama Yoitoko,” which depicts the beautiful scenery of Toyama Prefecture and was composed by Yuji Koseki, is the ultimate local song that remains timeless even today.
The piece showcases Matsudaira’s captivating, era-transcending voice, and its lyrics conjure vivid landscapes.
The melody, too, is a must-hear, gently conveying the heart of Toyama, a region rich in folk-song tradition.
It’s recommended not only for those with ties to Toyama, but for anyone who longs for their hometown.
Wind FestivalYoichi Sugawara
Yoichi Sugawara’s “Kaze no Bon” is a classic centered on Yatsuo in Toyama Prefecture.
In 1989, it reached many listeners through the program “Minna no Uta.” Sugawara’s deep voice blends perfectly with the lyrics that depict a calm autumn scene.
The melody evokes Toyama’s nature and traditions, stirring nostalgia while soothing the heart.
When you feel lonely, give it a listen—it’s sure to warm your heart!
Wind of loveYuka Mizukoshi
Yuka Mizukoshi’s “Ainokaze” is a song that lovingly celebrates the sights and traditions of Toyama Prefecture.
Steeped in her roots, its greatest charm lies in lyrics written in the Toyama dialect.
Released in 2013, the track conveys the beauty of Toyama’s culture not only to locals but also to listeners with no direct connection to the region.
Mizukoshi’s vocals are warm and gently comforting.
The song’s content—such as choosing Kaiwomaru Park as a date setting—has been praised for its deep local pride.
It’s especially recommended for anyone who wants to feel the appeal of Japan’s regional culture!
Etchu Love SongYuko Maki
Etschu Love Song, performed by enka singer Yufuko Maki—who is active across film, television, and stage—unfolds a folk-style story set in Toyama Prefecture, portraying a bittersweet yet heartwarming love.
Against backdrops like the traditional Owara Kaze no Bon festival, Etchu Owara, and Himi, it vividly conveys poignant feelings of romance.
The beautiful, powerful tones of traditional Japanese instruments further express the song’s passion.
It’s a piece that sings of two people falling in love amid Toyama’s signature festivals.