[Yamagata Songs] Beloved local tunes and classic tracks celebrating majestic nature and hometown pride

Mogami River (Yamagata Prefectural Anthem)Shuichi Takatori, Member of the House of Representatives

The Mogami River (Poem by Emperor Showa; Prefectural Song of Yamagata)

This work was composed by Akatarō Shimazaki, who was a professor at the Tokyo Music School at the time, setting to music lyrics that quoted a waka poem composed by Emperor Shōwa during his imperial visit to Yamagata, describing the scenery of the Mogami River.

Although Mogamigawa was created in 1933, it was not officially adopted as the prefectural anthem until 1983.

Today, it is loved by the people as a song that symbolizes Yamagata.

Gatta YamagataSelf-styled Tourism Association

[Studio ver.] Yamagata Prefecture local song “Gatta Yamagata” PV

This is a song by the Self-Styled Tourism Association that humorously portrays Yamagata’s landmarks and culture from a traveler’s perspective.

Scenes from a visit to Yamadera, the flow of the Mogami River, and local specialties like human shogi and imoni stew are depicted with playful onomatopoeia.

It’s as if the local energy comes alive—just listening naturally lifts your spirits.

The track was included on the album “Self-Styled Tourism Association,” released in February 2008, and is also beloved in the prefecture’s tourism promotions.

For anyone planning a trip to Yamagata, it’s sure to heighten the excitement.

Homecoming: This Is My Way of Life GATAMCGATA feat. Mitchy Chen

[Yamagata Dialect Rap] MCGATA feat. Mitchy Chen “Homecoming ~This Is My Way of Living~” Official Promotion Video

A Yamagata-accented rap blends beautifully with an ethnic, faintly nostalgic beat.

It portrays the unvarnished daily life of a young man who, after his dreams in the city fell through, has returned to his hometown.

Yet he is never self-deprecating; the song radiates warmth, affirming his love for his roots and his own way of living.

Released in June 2015, this track became the starting point for the activities that led to the later album “Agasuke no Susume.” For those worn out by city life or seeking to reevaluate how they want to live, it may resonate as if giving voice to your heart.

Yamagata Traditional Vegetable OndoHanda Giken

[Official] "Yamagata Traditional Vegetable Ondo" Handa Giken

This is a song that expresses gratitude and respect for the farmers who support Yamagata’s rich food culture, set to a lively, cheerful ondo rhythm.

With its clear vocals and comical tone, many listeners will find their hearts lifted just by listening.

The piece was created around May 2020.

JA Yamagata also took part, and you can feel the warm intention of the entire community to promote the region’s food culture.

The lyrics feature a parade of traditional vegetables, making it irresistible for anyone interested in Yamagata’s cuisine.

It’s a perfect song for those who want to sing along with their children and have fun learning about their local bounty.

Yamagata Mountain Mnemonic SongHanda Giken

Mnemonic Rhymes of the Mountains of Yamagata (Official Ver.) / Handa Giken

A playful song that likens the eleven towering mountains of Yamagata to a person’s side profile.

Its straightforward awe for Yamagata’s nature is wrapped in an approachable melody.

With the energetic voices of children added in, it conveys a warm, family feel.

Before its single release in January 2020, it was included on the album “CBJAM2018” and became a live favorite.

Though it has no specific tie-ins, it has helped energize Yamagata by being used at local events.

Singing it on a family drive might naturally help you get to know Yamagata’s geography better.

Raised in YamagataIwao Yamaguchi

Raised in Yamagata

Crafted by Iwao Yamaguchi, this piece features lyrics in the Yamagata dialect that feel disarmingly simple and gently seep into the heart.

As a dialect scholar himself, Yamaguchi paints everyday local scenes and unadorned people so vividly that you can almost see them.

The track was included on the July 2019 album “Yamagata Spirit,” and in response to fan requests, a “Yamagata Spirit: Special Edition” with additions like a live version was released in August 2023.

If you’re a bit worn out by city life or find yourself thinking of home late at night, listening to it might just lighten your heart.

Mogami RiverKaori Mizumori

[New Song] Mogamigawa / Kaori Mizumori cover by kirara

This is a song by Kaori Mizumori that portrays a wistful journey: drifting down Yamagata’s majestic river by boat while reminiscing about someone you can no longer meet.

The depictions of nature—the river’s flow, the mist, the wind—overlap with the protagonist’s wavering heart and nostalgia for the past, resonating deeply with listeners.

The track was included on the album “Kayō Kiko 20: Narukokyō,” released in October 2021.

For those living away from their hometowns or traveling with memories of someone dear, it may feel as if the song is speaking their feelings on their behalf.