Nursery rhymes you’ll want to sing at karaoke: classic and popular songs everyone can enjoy together.

paprikaYonezu Kenshi

#3 [Ensemble by Middle and Senior Kindergarteners] “Paprika”

Written and composed by Kenshi Yonezu, it was released in 2018 by the elementary and middle school music unit Foorin.

The song and dance became a huge craze and a major hit.

The somewhat nostalgic melodic development, which evokes a touch of folk music, is striking, and the children’s straightforward singing was incredibly appealing.

It’s a bright, catchy piece that’s easy on children’s ears, so it’s also recommended for ensemble performances.

The open, exhilarating melody combined with the children’s energy creates a synergistic effect that will hopefully result in an ensemble that feels like a glimpse into the world of the future!

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Mysterious Pocket

Mysterious Pocket - Pochacco ver.

When I listen to this song while I’m hungry… I get even hungrier.

It’s a tune that was also used in a Morinaga Seika biscuit commercial, and it sings about a very mysterious pocket where the biscuits inside increase every time you pat it.

I’m sure many of us wanted that pocket when we were little! These wonderful lyrics were written by Michio Mado, who also penned the well-known children’s song “Zō-san” (Mr.

Elephant).

Ten thousand feet in the Alps

Alps Ichiman-jaku [with vocals] – children's song and hand-clapping game

Isn’t it a song many people first learned as a hand-play tune in childhood? The original is the American folk song titled “Yankee Doodle,” but around the 1960s, lyrics related to mountaineering were added, and it began to be sung in Japan as well.

Some say there are as many as 29 verses, though that’s up for debate.

It’s a great karaoke song—everyone knows it and it gets the whole group in a fun mood.

To the Sun in the Palm of Your Hand

Palms to the Sun / Papaya Suzuki & Friends (Smile for Japan Official) mov

It’s a popular children’s song with energetic lyrics and a lively tempo that makes it a hit at karaoke.

As in this video, if you sing it a bit faster, it seems like everyone can get even more excited together.

In fact, the lyrics were written by Takashi Yanase, the creator of the beloved Anpanman character.

You can really feel the sense of full-on energy coming through the words, right? In 2006, it was selected by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs for the “100 Best Japanese Songs,” a list of nursery rhymes, school songs, and popular songs they hope parents and children will continue singing for generations.

The Hungry Tummy Songsakushi: sakata hiroo / sakkyoku: onaka megumi

♪ The Hungry Tummy Song (with actions) - ♪ Why does my tummy get hungry, I wonder? Does it get hungry when we have a fight, I wonder? ~

This is a delightful children’s song by Hiroo Sakata (lyrics) and Megumi Oonaka (music) that humorously portrays hunger.

With a simple, friendly melody and lyrics that gently capture everyday moments of children, it’s a work that’s sure to bring a smile.

First released in 1960, it was performed by the Froebel Boys’ Choir when it aired on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1962.

Loved for many years since, it was rebroadcast in July 2021.

It’s perfect for singing together as a family when you’re hungry or during snack time—smiles come naturally.

It’s also an ideal song for lunch during field trips or picnics.

Sing it together, and your mealtime will become an even more memorable, joyful moment.

Roly-poly pill bugSakushi sakkyoku/Shinzawa Toshihiko

Roly-Poly Pill Bug (with lyrics) Lyrics and music by Toshihiko Shinzawa – New song from Okaasan to Issho

A fingerplay song that gently portrays the cute looks and movements of small creatures was created by Toshihiko Shinzawa.

With warm lyrics and melody, it depicts encounters with the little creatures often seen in nature, making it an engaging piece that stimulates children’s curiosity.

Featured on NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho” in December 2024, this work includes creative elements that let children enjoy expressing the adorable behaviors of animals through hand motions.

It can be used in kindergartens and preschools, and also serves as a tool for parents and children to bond while fostering an interest in nature.

With soothing lyrics and an approachable tune, it’s a perfect song for making happy memories during walks and outdoor play.

Let’s go to the park.Sakushi sakkyoku: Sakata Osamu

[Song♫] Let's Go to the Park / With Mother (Covered by UtaSta) [Animated PV]

This popular song from NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho” is characterized by a bright tone that evokes the arrival of spring and a lively, uplifting rhythm.

Created by Osamu Sakata, it features lyrics that convey the joy of playing outdoors and a warm worldview that can be enjoyed across generations, from babies to the elderly.

It was sung by Ayumi Shigemori and Kentaro Hayami in August 1999, and around the same time it was also included on Ikkokudō’s album “Niji no Mukou ni.” It’s a heartwarming piece you’ll want to hum with someone special during a sunny walk or playtime at the park—perfect for enjoying with family and friends in the fresh green season.