[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)
Bet one and two
This nostalgic Japanese counting song, sung to a traditional tune, is called “Ikakake Nikakete” (“One flick, two flicks”).
It follows the numbers and is sung with a pleasant rhythm.
At first you might think it’s a cute children’s counting song, but surprisingly, partway through it shifts into a slightly spooky, story-like narrative.
Still, true to its nursery-rhyme roots, it ends with a game of rock-paper-scissors—keeping kids entertained all the way through.
It’s also nice that it teaches a bit of history, set in Kagoshima, Kyushu.
The lyrics vary by region, each with its own expressions.
Why not look into the different versions?
The rice cracker is done.
This is a children’s song where beanbags are imagined as rice crackers.
Beanbags are familiar to older generations, but kids of the 2000s might not know them well.
It could be refreshing to put down your smartphone or computer once in a while and try playing with beanbags.
The song is simple and easy to learn, so even small children can enjoy it.
It might also be nice for parents and children to make beanbags together to play along with the song.
When playing outside, you can substitute leaves or stones for beanbags.
It’s easy to enjoy, so give it a try.
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.