[Warabe-uta] Beloved Classic Songs Passed Down Through Generations
Nursery rhymes that have been passed down in Japan since long ago.
There are many types of nursery rhymes, including drawing songs, counting songs, and play songs.
Many of you probably sang and played games like Kagome Kagome and Hana Ichi Monme at least once when you were children.
In this article, we introduce popular nursery rhymes.
If you want to remember the nursery rhymes you sang as a child or enjoy them with your kids, be sure to give them a listen!
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[Warabe-uta] Beloved Nostalgic Songs Passed Down Through Generations (41–50)
Please let me pass.warabeuta
This is a traditional Japanese children’s song handed down since the Edo period, said to have been sung along the approach to Kawasaki Daishi Temple in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa.
In a game beloved by children, two players take the role of ogres, join hands to form a gate, and everyone slips through while singing.
The lyrics include the act of offering talismans for the seven celebratory milestones of childhood and convey a sense of awe toward a sacred place.
For those who remember gathering to play it in their neighborhood when they were young, or who know the melody from pedestrian crossing signals, it is a song that can be sung with a warm sense of nostalgia.
This year’s peonies
“Kotoshi no Botan” is a song that most Japanese people have probably heard at least once.
Even if the title doesn’t ring a bell, many will recognize it once they hear the melody.
If you’re an adult thinking, “What was that song again?”, give it a listen—you’ll likely feel a wave of childhood nostalgia.
It’s also a short song, so even young children can learn it quickly.
It might be nice to sing it in kindergarten or elementary school.
It’s also recommended for parents and children to sing together, since it’s something you can enjoy as a family.
Tanuki of Fist Mountain
I think most of you have heard this song at least once.
Some people may know just the song, while others know the dance moves as well.
You play rock-paper-scissors at the end of the song, which gives it a fun, game-like feel.
It’s perfect for playing with friends in kindergarten or elementary school.
Adults can also give it a try and feel like kids again! It’s great to do together with your children, too.
The choreography follows the lyrics, so it’s easy to learn and simple.
Give it a try!
Opened, opened
This is a song that’s fun to play with a group.
Some adults might feel nostalgic when they hear the melody and remember playing games like this.
Everyone holds hands in a circle, spreads out at the part that says “hiraita” (opened), and gathers toward the center at “tsubonda” (closed).
It’s an easy game, so try learning it and playing it at school.
Since you hold hands, it helps deepen friendships.
It’s also recommended for strengthening class bonds.
And it could be nice to try it with your family outside of school, too.
In conclusion
So many nostalgic nursery rhymes.
Each one has its own story, and you can see how they’ve continued to be loved across generations.
These songs are a precious cultural heritage that everyone can feel close to, no matter their age.
Sing them with your family and friends, and you’re sure to create wonderful memories.