[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 (21–30)
Hana Ichi Monme
Hanachimonme is a game that everyone played at least once as a child.
I remember how it could get dangerous when we got carried away and our feet would bump into each other.
There’s a rumor that, despite being such a familiar game, the song is actually quite scary.
It’s also interesting that the lyrics vary slightly by region.
What would happen if people from different regions played together? It’s a classic children’s song with surprising depth.
A tadpole is a frog’s child.
“Actually, tadpoles are really baby frogs!” The folk song Otamajakushi wa Kaeru no Ko is a fun way to teach this truth, and with its easy-to-follow melody, it’s a recommended children’s song for singing together while learning about living creatures.
The tune is based on the American folk song known as the Battle Hymn of the Republic, and since being introduced to Japan it has become familiar through various parody versions, including Otamajakushi wa Kaeru no Ko and the Yodobashi Camera commercial jingle.
[Warabe-uta] Beloved Nostalgic Songs Passed Down Through Generations (31–40)
the temple’s head monk
When it comes to simple hand-clapping songs, “Otera no Oshō-san” is probably a classic.
The choreography follows the lyrics, so even small children can pick it up quickly.
It’s great to play with friends at school, and it’s also fun for parents and children to do together.
Since it ends with rock-paper-scissors, you could even use this song for settling a match or deciding something.
The song is short, so it’s easy to play casually—that’s part of its charm.
If you try it during downtime or free moments, time might fly by before you know it.
Zuizui Zukkorobashi
If you’re Japanese, you’ve probably heard it at least once, right? In the song “Zuizuizukkorobashi,” there’s a phrase in the lyrics that says “sesame miso.” Some people might think they misheard it, but that’s actually correct.
The song describes a situation where commoners had to stay inside their homes because important people of the Edo period were passing through.
It’s also used as a hand game, so if you’re interested, give it a try.
The Bento Box Song
When it comes to classic nursery rhymes that parents and children can enjoy together, “Obentōbako no Uta” (The Lunchbox Song) is a top choice, isn’t it? It’s fun to learn and dance the hand motions with your child that match the side dishes in a lunchbox.
It can also be a good way to learn about ingredients, spark children’s interest in food, and maybe even reduce picky eating.
You could even try packing the same side dishes mentioned in the song into a real bento.
It’s wonderful that there are so many ways to enjoy it while also learning about food.
Please let me pass.
When people hear Tōryanse, many probably find themselves humming along without thinking.
That’s how familiar this song is to Japanese people.
Many of you may have also played the game that goes with it.
You’ve likely seen the scene at school where friends form a “bridge” with their arms and others pass underneath.
Playing this game can be a way to make friends at school.
Even very young children can learn it quickly, so invite your classmates and give it a try.
It’s also fun to play not just at school, but with the whole family at home.
Daruma doll
When it comes to traditional children’s songs you can play with teachers and friends at daycare or kindergarten, “Daruma-san” is a classic.
You sit like a daruma doll and play a staring game.
You don’t need any props, so it’s easy to play anytime.
The staring game is fun for all ages, so try it with friends, siblings, parents—anyone.
The song is simple too, so you can learn it quickly.
Be sure to sing along while you play.
Adults can enjoy it as a way to feel like a child again, so try it with your kids.