Japanese counting songs: nostalgic temari (handball) songs and children’s folk songs
A “counting song” is, literally, a song or poem (including waka) about counting.
In Japan, they have long been beloved, and there are many famous tunes that everyone—young and old—has heard at least once, such as in children’s songs.
This article spotlights “counting songs,” which are important to Japanese people, introducing a variety of types—from well-known classics that everyone knows to anime songs and popular tunes that follow the counting-song format.
Enjoy them with children, use them as background music for playtime—please experience the charm of counting songs!
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Japanese counting songs. Nostalgic temari songs and children's folk songs (11–20)
Let’s count and danceSuper Simple Nihongo
Known as a song popular with children, this piece centers on the theme of moving your body while counting.
Its lyrics rhythmically count from 1 to 20 and, together with a fun melody, make it a distinctive tune widely used in early childhood education.
Released in October 2018, the song was created as part of the “Super Simple Songs” series.
It has been published on video platforms like YouTube and is supported by many parents and children.
It’s recommended for those who want to sing and dance with kids, and also for learners who want to enjoyably memorize how to say numbers in Japanese for use with people overseas.
University Counting SongMoriya Hiroshi
This song sung by Hiroshi Moriya is characterized by lyrics that satirically depict university life.
From freshman year to graduation, it humorously portrays students’ growth and changes, and the phrase “Soitsu wa gōki da ne” (“That’s really something, isn’t it?”) leaves a strong impression.
The piece was released as a single in August 1962 and was also used as the theme song for a film of the same name in December of that year.
Set in a pharmaceutical company and a sake brewery, the movie follows two employees who join the firms after graduating from university.
Although a televised performance once caused a brief stir, the work is known for its unique perspective on student life at the time.
It’s a recommended listen for those who want to reminisce about their school days.
People’s Rights Counting SongTsuchitori Toshiyuki
This song was sung as a message song that criticized national politics and society during the Freedom and People’s Rights Movement, which flourished in the Meiji era.
Its melody, like that of “University Counting Song,” is a parody of a traditional folk tune.
The lyrics were written by Emori Ueki, an activist from Tosa.
Daichan Counting SongYoshida Yoshimi
“Daichan Counting Song” is a track by Yoshimi Yoshida, released by Nippon Columbia in September 1970.
In fact, it was recorded by Yoshimi Tendo under her real name when she was a teenager, and used as the opening theme for the anime Inakappe Taisho.
Using the format of a counting song, it depicts the personality and everyday life of the protagonist, Daichan.
The lyrics portray his strength and determination, as well as his growth through occasional failures, offering children courage and hope.
Phrases like “Ten ten tenka no inakappe” are especially memorable, and the song’s warm tone resonates with listeners.
Hiyono Mountain Counting Songoyakata oorusutāzu
Created to share the appeal of professional sumo with children, this song centers on energy, courage, and perseverance.
Performed by the Oyakata All-Stars, a group of renowned sumo stablemasters, it depicts repeated training bouts and the journey toward a bright future, while conveying the importance of working hard together with friends.
Released in 2012, the song is also known as the theme for the Japan Sumo Association’s official character, “Hakkioi! Seki-Tori-kun.” With lyrics and a melody that are easy for kids—and of course sumo fans—to enjoy, it brings the world of sumo closer to listeners.
Cheerfully sharing life lessons learned through sumo, this piece is perfect for parents and children to enjoy together and to experience the charm of sumo.
Kamen Rider Counting SongShimono Masato, Koronbia Yurikago-kai
It’s a song packed with charm that captivates children’s hearts.
Shunsuke Kikuchi’s catchy melody pairs perfectly with Masato Shimon’s vocals.
The lyrics link the numbers 1 through 9 with monsters, skillfully blending educational elements with the world of Kamen Rider to spark children’s imaginations.
Released in December 1971, this track brightened the show as an insert song for Kamen Rider.
Its innovative counting-song format made it a memorable classic for many children.
It also serves as an ideal learning tool for parents and children to enjoy while learning numbers together.
Japanese counting songs: Nostalgic handball and children's songs (21–30)
Counting Song
A traditional Japanese counting song that has long been sung in schools as a Ministry of Education song.
Included in the July 1910 volume of “Songs for the Elementary School Reader,” this piece teaches children virtues such as loyalty, filial piety, harmony among siblings, friendship, and sincerity while counting numbers.
It adapts melodies of children’s folk songs passed down in various regions into educational material; Naoaki Fukui prepared the accompaniment score and arranged it to be easy to sing in school settings.
In 1997, it was also included on the album “Jinjō Shōgaku Shōka: Third Grade,” performed by the Suginami Children’s Choir.