RAG MusicJapanese Songs
Lovely nursery rhymes, folk songs, and children's songs

A collection of cheerful nursery rhymes—songs that make you feel happy when you sing them.

There are so many nursery rhymes that are popular with children!

There are songs about animals, songs about food, songs about the seasons—the themes are varied, and each song has its own mood.

In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of especially cheerful songs from among the most popular nursery rhymes all at once!

We’ve gathered lots of songs that will put you in a happy mood whether you listen to them or sing along.

Please sample the songs we introduce below, and be sure to enjoy listening to and singing your favorites!

A collection of cheerful nursery rhymes: songs that make you feel happy when you sing them (81–90)

Roly-poly pill bugSakushi sakkyoku/Shinzawa Toshihiko

Roly-Poly Pill Bug (with lyrics) Lyrics and music by Toshihiko Shinzawa – New song from Okaasan to Issho
Roly-poly pill bugSakushi sakkyoku/Shinzawa Toshihiko

A fingerplay song that gently portrays the cute looks and movements of small creatures was created by Toshihiko Shinzawa.

With warm lyrics and melody, it depicts encounters with the little creatures often seen in nature, making it an engaging piece that stimulates children’s curiosity.

Featured on NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho” in December 2024, this work includes creative elements that let children enjoy expressing the adorable behaviors of animals through hand motions.

It can be used in kindergartens and preschools, and also serves as a tool for parents and children to bond while fostering an interest in nature.

With soothing lyrics and an approachable tune, it’s a perfect song for making happy memories during walks and outdoor play.

Doraemon: Make My Dreams Come Truemao

Among the Doraemon theme songs you know, this is one of the newer ones, with an incredibly bright melody that makes everyone who listens feel sparkly at heart.

HEROmomokurochan Z

Video released of the movie Shimajiro theme song “HERO” sung by Momokuro-chan Z! [Official Shimajiro Channel]
HEROmomokurochan Z

This is the theme song for the movie Shimajiro: Shimajiro and Ururu’s Hero Land.

There’s also a choreography video where Momoclo-chan Z sings and dances, so many children may have danced to it for their preschool performances.

It’s a bright, energetic tune that kids of all ages—from toddlers to the older kindergarteners—can enjoy together.

Sun Sun Exercisedoriimingu

Sansan Exercise (TV size ver.) [Official Ending Theme]
Sun Sun Exercisedoriimingu

It’s a song that makes you want to start dancing with your kids right away.

The choreography isn’t very difficult, and it’s a fun song to dance to while watching the video.

Red Hat, White HatKawamura Koyo

Children’s song: “Red Hat, White Hat” by Junko Kawamura
Red Hat, White HatKawamura Koyo

Set to a light, lively melody, this song is about two little girls.

You can almost picture them running along happily together, and it’s a nursery rhyme that makes you smile as you listen.

The lyricist, Toshiko Takeuchi, was also a mother, and her love for children shines through.