[Japanese Children's Songs] Carefully selected timeless masterpieces loved across generations!
Japanese shoka—songs everyone has hummed at least once—include classics like “Furusato,” “Haru no Ogawa,” and “Momiji.” The nostalgic melodies we learned in music class or sang with friends in childhood stay with us no matter how much time passes.
These works, which sing of seasonal landscapes and everyday scenes, are filled with the sensibilities of the Japanese people.
In this article, we introduce a selection of shoka that have been sung across generations.
Just seeing the titles will make you want to start singing—be sure to check out these beloved Japanese classics.
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- [Showa Era] A roundup of nostalgic folk song classics and popular tracks you’ll want to sing at karaoke
- A nostalgic song—a timeless classic that somehow feels familiar and touches the heart.
- [Hometown Songs] A curated selection of popular Japanese tracks that fill your heart with nostalgia
- A roundup of classic Showa-era kayō songs: a comprehensive introduction to timeless tracks loved across generations.
- A masterpiece of the pastoral. A roundup of representative works that delve into the charm of the pastoral (pastorale).
- Nostalgic enka. A collection of classic enka hits from the Showa era.
- [Local Songs] Recommended tracks packed with Japan’s nationwide classics and hometown pride
- Recommended enka set in autumn: a collection of heart-touching masterpieces
- Children’s Song Medley: A playlist of classic and popular hits everyone knows
- Folk Songs of the World | Hometown Songs Passed Down Abroad
- For Seniors: Festive Attractions to Liven Up Festivals—Games and Recreational Activities
[Japanese Shoka] Carefully Selected Timeless Classics Loved Across Generations! (91–100)
Voices of Insects
Published in 1910, it was selected in 2007 as one of the “100 Japanese Songs.” In 1932, the word “kirigirisu” in the second verse was changed to “koorogiya.” The onomatopoeia imitating insect sounds is unique, making it a song that children can enjoy singing.
red dragonfly
With lyrics written by Miki Rofu in 1921 and music composed by Yamada Kōsaku in 1927, this song was born.
Its lyrics—gazing at a red dragonfly flying at dusk and sinking into memories of one’s hometown—suit the somewhat melancholy feeling of autumn.
The melody is also beautiful, making it one of Japan’s representative songs.
waiting in vainMiyamoto Tomoko
The song seems to have been created in the Taisho era, but its content is said to come from a Chinese tale.
It comically sings about a farmer who, having acquired a taste for an unexpected windfall, stops working and keeps waiting for more prey to fall into his lap.
It also seems to carry the lesson: don’t try to make easy money.
Village AutumnBaishō Chieko
I had simply thought it was a quiet, calming song, but I came to realize it’s a prayer for a father’s safe return from the war.
From wartime propaganda to the once-unspeakable hope for safe homecoming—this made me feel anew that songs are shaped by their times.
Baishō’s gentle singing is wonderful.
Moon over the Ruined CastleAkiyama Masashi
Through Ms.
Akikawa’s sonorous singing, I could imagine even more clearly the elegant world and the rise and fall of fortunes reflected in the moon.
I felt as if I were standing alone at a desolate castle.
I had long thought the model for this castle was only the ruins of Oka Castle in Taketa City, but I learned that there are monuments to the song in various places and that it is widely cherished.
In conclusion
Japanese shoka (traditional school songs) have a timeless charm.
When we hear those nostalgic melodies, our hearts naturally feel at ease.
I hope the Japanese songs I introduced will help awaken your memories.
Shoka will continue to stay close to the hearts of many people.