Nostalgic Children’s Songs, Folk Songs, and Nursery Rhymes: The Heart of Japan Passed Down Through Song

teru teru bozu (a traditional Japanese handmade doll hung to wish for good weather)Sakushi: Asahara Kyōson / Sakkyoku: Nakayama Shinpei

Teru Teru Bozu [children’s song] ☆A song that makes babies happy☆

It’s a simple, endearing children’s song in which one sings to a little doll made from a white cloth on a rainy day, wishing for clear skies.

Akihito Asahara’s lyrics express a child’s pure feelings directly, charmingly depicting the innocent, forthright emotions that move from promising a golden bell as thanks to even threatening to cut off its head if the wish isn’t granted.

First published in 1921 in the magazine “Shōjo no Tomo” and officially released the following year, the piece has been loved by many thanks to Shinpei Nakayama’s friendly melody.

It’s the perfect song for when you’re eagerly awaiting the end of the rain or want to bask in nostalgic feelings.

Banana Parent and ChildSakushi: Seki Kazuo / Sakkyoku: Fukuda Wakako

Banana Parent and Child | Children's Song | Kids' Song | covered by UtaSta

This heartwarming work by Kazuo Seki and Wakako Fukuda comically portrays the adorable everyday life of the Banana family living on a southern island.

The repeated phrases woven from the sounds of each family member’s name create a catchy rhythm that even small children will naturally hum along to.

First aired in 1982 on NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho,” it has continued to be loved in many households.

It’s also included on the album “Okaasan to Issho Memorial Album,” making it perfect for parents and children to sing together! How about spending a cozy time with everyone while feeling the bonds of family?

The Bear of the Forestamerika min’yō

[River Rise] English Song 'The Bear in the Forest' (The Bear Song)

This nursery song, depicting a charming encounter in the forest, spread nationwide in 1972 when Dark Ducks performed it on NHK’s “Minna no Uta.” With its humorous story and familiar melody, it warmly conveys the bear’s gentle thoughtfulness.

In October of the same year, a single was released by King Records, with a Russian folk song on the B-side.

Because it can be sung in an echo-song format, it’s perfect for campfires and kindergarten choruses! Its lively 4/4 rhythm makes it easy for everyone to have fun singing together while naturally learning the melody.

Brr, it’s so cold.warabeuta

[Children’s Song] Oh, Cold, So Cold

A simple, short poem, yet a charming song that straightforwardly conveys the feeling of cold, just like a nursery rhyme.

In some regions, it’s said that the little boy sings lines like “came flying” or “came crying.” The fact that there are so many variations is one of the fun things about nursery rhymes, isn’t it?

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yuri

Report a problem

Summer MemoriesSakushi: Ema Akiko / Sakkyoku: Nakata Yoshinao

Summer Memories [Choir]

A quintessential Japanese classic that paints a nostalgic summer scene.

Keinao Nakada’s gentle melody and Akiko Ema’s poetic lyrics leave a quiet afterglow in the listener’s heart.

Vivid depictions of nature—Oze shrouded in mist, the blooms of skunk cabbage, and a rhododendron-tinted sky at dusk—are especially striking.

First broadcast on an NHK radio program in 1949, it has been beloved by many ever since.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to feel the calm passage of time or indulge in fond memories of the past.

Close It, Open ItMonbushō shōka

[Children’s song] Musunde Hiraite / Daisuke Yokoyama

This is a nursery rhyme that’s very popular in childcare settings and children’s programs.

Many of you may remember singing it while doing hand motions when you were little.

Because it’s fun to sing while moving your fingers, it’s now often sung not only as a recreation activity in preschools and kindergartens, but also in day service programs for the elderly.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yuri

Report a problem

the temple’s head monk

Hand play song: The Temple Priest

This hand-clapping song, sung while holding hands and chanting “Ses-ses-se—no, yoi yoi yoi,” is a traditional children’s rhyme that playfully traces, with gestures, the monk sowing pumpkin seeds and the flowers blooming.

Passed down orally, it has developed numerous lyrical variations across regions and eras, and it continues to evolve alongside children’s play today.

Its appeal lies in a singable range, a clear storyline, and a structure that invites movement.

Beyond early childhood settings, it is also used in rehabilitation for the elderly, and it will likely continue to be sung as a song that people of all generations can enjoy together.