Kumamoto Prefecture

Kumamoto Prefecture — Songs of Nostalgia Nurtured by Nature and History

Kumamoto castle

By Totti – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Kumamoto Prefecture is situated in central Kyushu, known for attractions like Mount Aso and Kumamoto Castle. The prefectural capital, Kumamoto City, features beautiful Japanese gardens such as Suizenji Jojuen. Local specialties include Kumamoto ramen and raw horse meat sashimi (basashi).

Kumamoto ramen

By woinary from Ramen shop near the Kumamoto Station in Kasuga, Kumamoto, – Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

A notable children’s song from Kumamoto is “Kokyou no Haika” (Abandoned House in My Hometown) with lyrics by INDOU Kyukei, who was born in Hitoyoshi City. This poignant song expresses nostalgia for one’s distant homeland and resonates deeply with many listeners.

“Antagata Dokosa” is a well-known handball rhyme from Kumamoto with roots in the Edo period. The prefecture is also associated with “Kumamoto Kenka Ondo,” a traditional folk song that celebrates the prefecture’s spirited character. Kumamoto’s scenic landscape includes Japan’s largest caldera at Mount Aso and the mystical Takachiho Gorge. The prefecture is also known for its watermelon production and sweet potato shochu (traditional Japanese spirit), which complement its rich cultural heritage.

Mt.Aso caldera