Yoshimaru Kazumasa Memorial Museum

The Yoshimaru Kazumasa Memorial Museum (吉丸一昌記念館) honors the life and legacy of Kazumasa Yoshimaru, a renowned lyricist and educator born in Usuki. Best known for his contributions to Japanese music, Yoshimaru wrote lyrics for many beloved songs, including Ode to Early Spring and Song of Leaving My Hometown. After finishing high school, he moved to Tokyo, where he embarked on a career as a teacher, eventually becoming a professor at Tokyo Music School, now known as Tokyo University of the Arts. Yoshimaru also played a pivotal role in the Ministry of Education’s music education initiatives, composing innovative nursery rhymes and school songs that influenced generations of students across Japan.

Housed in the family home of Yoshimaru’s wife, the museum displays an extensive collection of sheet music, personal artifacts, and memorabilia related to his life and work. The exhibits offer visitors an intimate look at his contributions to Japanese music and education, providing a deeper understanding of how his work shaped the cultural landscape of his time. From handwritten lyrics to photos and letters, the museum captures the essence of a man whose influence continues to echo through the music and education systems of Japan today.