[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)
Brr, it’s so cold.
“Oosamu Kosamu” is a song with a catchy phrase that every generation has heard at least once.
It can also be sung as a round partway through, making it fun for groups.
Singing it with friends or classmates doubles the enjoyment.
It’s a great pick for kids who love to sing.
It works solo, with friends, or with family—any way you like.
Give singing it as a round a try with everyone.
And as the title suggests, it’s a winter song, so it’s perfect for the colder months.
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.
Sunset glow and dusk
“Yuyake Koyake” is a familiar tune often heard in the 5 p.m.
chimes or announcements at parks, schools, and community centers.
The fact that this song makes you feel it’s time to head home is proof of how long it’s been loved.
Its short lyrics are part of the charm—easy to remember and easy to sing.
And the second verse, which you rarely hear outside of elementary school classes, might already feel nostalgic.
If you listen to it again after a long time, it may bring back memories from those days and let you bask in that sense of nostalgia.
yomogi-jōbu nowarabeuta
An old traditional children’s song.
From the lyrics that mention plants like iris and mugwort, you can sense how people once lived in harmony with abundant nature.
The verses depicting children playfully slapping each other’s bottoms are simple yet heartwarming.
Through this song, we can share with children the playful spirit of the past and the joy of interacting with nature.
How about forming a circle and singing together while playing in a spring meadow? It’s sure to become a cherished memory.
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.