Let's sing together! A collection of nursery rhymes everyone knows
Nursery songs that many people have sung in day-care centers, kindergartens, and schools.
These children’s songs, passed down through generations, are still sung today in childcare settings, schools, and even senior facilities.
That said, fewer people are singing them nowadays, and some children can be found who don’t know nursery songs at all.
In this article, we’ll introduce nursery songs that everyone—young and old—will recognize.
If you’re not very familiar with nursery songs, start by listening to the ones we introduce here.
Try singing nursery songs together with your child, your friends, or your grandparents, and have fun!
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[Sing Together!] A Collection of Well-Known Children’s Songs (41–50)
The Hungry Tummy Songsakushi: sakata hiroo / sakkyoku: onaka megumi
This is a delightful children’s song by Hiroo Sakata (lyrics) and Megumi Oonaka (music) that humorously portrays hunger.
With a simple, friendly melody and lyrics that gently capture everyday moments of children, it’s a work that’s sure to bring a smile.
First released in 1960, it was performed by the Froebel Boys’ Choir when it aired on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1962.
Loved for many years since, it was rebroadcast in July 2021.
It’s perfect for singing together as a family when you’re hungry or during snack time—smiles come naturally.
It’s also an ideal song for lunch during field trips or picnics.
Sing it together, and your mealtime will become an even more memorable, joyful moment.
The Bento Box SongSakushi: Kayama Yoshiko / Sakkyoku: Kobayashi Akihiro
This is a fingerplay song, beloved by children, that cheerfully introduces the contents of a lunchbox.
Miyako Kayama’s warm lyrics perfectly match Akihiro Komori’s bright, friendly melody, resulting in an uplifting tune.
It’s fun to sing while doing the hand motions, and the lively storytelling is part of its charm.
Released as a single by Nippon Columbia in August 1978, the song was featured on NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho” and the Nippon TV network’s “Ohayō! Kodomo Show,” gaining widespread popularity.
It’s a delightful song that makes moments centered on food—like packing lunches or getting ready for a field trip—even more enjoyable.
Playing bus (pretend bus play)Sakushi: Kayama Yoshiko / Sakkyoku: Yuyama Akira
This lively children’s song by Yoshiko Kayama and Akira Yuyama captures the excitement of setting off on a trip in a big bus.
Set to a rhythmic melody, it gently portrays children enjoying pretend play with vehicles.
It’s a song you can sing while moving your hands and body, so it naturally brings smiles to children’s faces.
Long cherished in childcare and educational settings, it’s also used as a play song.
With spring outing season approaching, why not sing it together as a family before a walk or a day out? If everyone enjoys it while keeping the beat, it will surely create wonderful memories in children’s hearts.
spring breezeSakushi: Katō Yoshikiyo / Sakkyoku: Fositā
Among children’s songs that have been loved for generations, there is one that gently expresses the arrival of spring.
The lyrics were written by Yoshikiyo Kato and set to a melody by Stephen Foster with Japanese words added.
Its evocative lyrics depict spring scenes such as willow branches, kites, and breezes blowing through the garden.
Included in the “Certified Song Collection” in 1926, the piece has long been cherished in school education.
With a melody as light and pleasant as a spring breeze, it warms the hearts of listeners of all ages, from children to adults.
It’s a perfect song for a springtime stroll or for singing time at a nursery school.
We’ll take care of the demon here.Sakushi: Shinzawa Toshihiko / Sakkyoku: Nakagawa Hirotaka
This is a fingerplay song that portrays the fun of Setsubun from a fresh perspective.
With a waltz-like melody, it breathes new life into a traditional Japanese event.
The warm lyrics, which welcome the oni as a member of the family, are particularly striking.
Released in February 2002, it drew attention as the first collaboration between Toshihiko Shinzawa and Hirotaka Nakagawa.
Perfect for bean-throwing events in kindergartens and nursery schools, it’s a song that children, teachers, and families can all enjoy together.
Letting you feel the season as you sing, this work continues to be loved across generations.
Sing and dance along, and Setsubun is sure to become even more fun!
In conclusion
We’ve introduced nursery rhymes that everyone knows, regardless of age—what did you think? You probably found many songs you’ve heard or sung at least once. Nursery rhymes offer a different kind of nostalgia and warmth from genres like J-pop. Listen and sing along, and be sure to experience that warmth for yourself.