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Songs whose titles start with 'I'. Masterpieces that begin with 'I'.

I’m going to introduce songs with titles that start with “i” (the Japanese syllable pronounced ee)!

When you think of “i,” words like ichigo (strawberry), iruka (dolphin), and iro (color) come to mind, so it’s not a particularly tricky letter even in shiritori, right?

But what about when it comes to song titles?

Actually, there are plenty of songs whose titles start with “i”!

In this article, I’ve gathered a variety of Japanese songs—both old and new—whose titles begin with “i.”

You might even find some you listen to regularly.

Feel free to use this as a reference when playing song-title shiritori and the like!

Songs whose titles start with “I.” Great songs that begin with “I” (381–390)

if…DA PUMP

This is a parody of DA PUMP’s “if…” themed around how hard housewives work and the hardships they live with.

It starts from the anger toward a husband who complains without even cooking, and goes on to depict the careful budgeting to support the household and the unrecognized daily struggles.

A key point is how it cleverly incorporates phrases from the original song, making feelings like anger, anxiety, and suffering sound pop.

By vividly portraying the small details that sustain everyday life, this parody powerfully conveys just how remarkable housewives are.

The Puppy Police OfficerSakushi: Satō Yoshimi / Sakkyoku: Ōnaka Megumi

Dog Policeman – The Little Lost Kitten [Japanese Children's Song]
The Puppy Police OfficerSakushi: Satō Yoshimi / Sakkyoku: Ōnaka Megumi

This is a gentle, melodic song depicting the encounter between a lost kitten and a kind police officer.

Written by Yoshimi Sato and composed by Megumi Ohnaka, it was created between the 1950s and 1960s.

With its warm lyrics and rhythmic tune, it’s perfect for fostering children’s emotional development.

It has been broadcast on NHK programs such as “Minna no Uta” and “Okaasan to Issho,” and is beloved by many.

We recommend singing it together with your child while adding simple motions for extra fun.

The heartwarming, picture book–like story will nurture your child’s imagination.

A strawberry is a strawberry.Sakushi: Kotaki Kiyomi / Sakkyoku: Fujita Taishi

Strawberries are Strawberries (Okaasan to Issho) / Kentaro Hayami & Ayumi Shigemori
A strawberry is a strawberry.Sakushi: Kotaki Kiyomi / Sakkyoku: Fujita Taishi

This is a charming song with a bright, rhythmic, and fun melody paired with heartwarming lyrics.

It was broadcast in May 1997 as the “Song of the Month” on NHK’s Okaasan to Issho, with lyrics by Kiyomi Kotaki and music by Taishi Fujita.

The gently told story follows a protagonist who dreams of becoming a cake and, while chasing that dream, discovers their own true self—making it a song that enriches children’s imaginations.

Sung and beloved by Kentaro Hayami and Ayumi Shigemori, it was later carried on by Akihiro Sugita and Ryoko Tsumoda.

It is also included on the album NHK Okaasan to Issho Memorial Album and has been cherished by many children.

It’s perfect for humming during walks or outdoor play, and for singing together on spring field trips or fun outings.

When sung with family, it’s sure to become a wonderful memory that shares the joy of spring.

1/2Kawamoto Makoto

【MV】Makoto Kawamoto “1/2”
1/2Kawamoto Makoto

A timeless youth anthem where tender ache and deep affection overflow, carried by the comforting resonance of acoustic guitar.

The lyrics delicately depict a powerful wish to become one with another, and the frustration of that wish remaining out of reach, gently embracing the kind of love we’ve all felt.

Seamlessly blending Makoto Kawamoto’s translucent voice with her unique worldview, the song reached No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart after its release in March 1997, and etched itself into many hearts as the opening theme of the anime Rurouni Kenshin.

It’s a heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to when you long to share in pure feelings, thinking of someone special.

Koi in the pondMonbushō shōka

Children’s song / school song: Carp in the Pond (Ike no Koi) – Ministry of Education Song
Koi in the pondMonbushō shōka

This is a Ministry of Education school song that can be enjoyed while picturing the refreshing scenery of the season.

The gentle way it addresses the carp swimming in the pond brings a sense of calm and warmth.

Included in May 1911 in “Elementary School Songs for the First Grade,” this piece has been loved for many years for its bright, friendly melody and soothing lyrics.

It has appeared in music textbooks and has been passed down through school education.

It will surely resonate in your heart along with nostalgic memories.

Singing it with older adults may revive happy memories from the past and naturally spark conversation.

It’s an ideal song for music activities in care facilities.

Songs with titles that start with 'I'. Masterpieces that begin with 'I' (391–400)

My beloved treasuretsuji ayano

Ayano Tsuji “Beloved Treasure” Original Animated Movie
My beloved treasuretsuji ayano

We’d like to introduce a warm, heartfelt song that helps you preserve joyful memories of raising your child.

Ayano Tsuji’s portrayal of parent–child love resonates with the gentle sound of the ukulele.

This bright, cozy piece is dedicated to parents who want to cherish and keep moments of closeness with their children.

Released in June 2018 as the theme song for Kagoshima TV’s parent-and-child support initiative, the “Smile Baby Project,” it tenderly sings of the joy of growing together with your child.

It’s perfect for recording precious moments with your baby or as soothing background music for putting your little one to sleep.

The gentle vocals and melody will deepen your family bonds even more.

Pilgrimage Without PrayersSatsuki

Pilgrimage Without Prayer / Kasane Teto, Adachi Rei, Utane Uta
Pilgrimage Without PrayersSatsuki

This is a Vocaloid song that portrays a journey of facing your true self—neither self-admonishment nor mere ornamentation.

Created by Satsuki, it was released in February 2025.

The call-and-response between three UTAU voicebanks—Kasane Teto, Adachi Rei, and Utane Uta—adds a nuanced flavor, and the energetic sound that fuses electronic music with rock leaves a strong impression.

The lyrics, which capture the resolve to carve out your own path without praying for miracles and the struggle to find something universal, resonate deeply.

I think it’s an UTAU track that can really fire you up.