Summary of songs with the 'Momotaro' motif and tracks featuring peaches or ogres
Momotaro, the classic tale of a boy who takes a dog, a monkey, and a pheasant with him to Oni Island to defeat the ogres.
It’s a beloved national folktale cherished by people of all ages.
In recent years, it even drew attention as the motif for a mobile phone company’s commercials.
This time, we’ve put together a selection of Japanese songs themed around Momotaro, as well as works featuring peaches and ogres.
In fact, Momotaro isn’t just a children’s song.
Be sure to read to the end—you might discover tracks you’ve never known before.
A roundup of songs with the ‘Momotaro’ motif—tracks featuring peaches and ogres (1–10)
Oni ExterminationMoritaka Chisato
This is a song by Chisato Moritaka—famous for “Watashi ga Obasan ni Natte mo”—whose lyrics say that it isn’t Momotaro going to slay the ogres, but herself.
It’s built on a cheerful rhythm and has a very lively finish.
From the sound of it, she seems like she could defeat the ogres with ease.
Momotarodōyō
“Momotaro, Momotaro, with millet dumplings at your waist…”—it’s the classic song.
When you hear ‘Momotaro,’ this tune is the first thing that comes to mind.
It depicts Momotaro setting off to subdue the ogres with a dog, a monkey, and a pheasant.
Still, there’s a part—‘So fun, so fun, we’ll subdue every last ogre’—that can make you feel a bit sorry for the ogres.
MomotaroSuiyōbi no Campanella
A work by the music unit Wednesday Campanella, included on their 2014 mini-album “Take Me to Onigashima.” It’s a worldview that can’t be contained by words like “unique” or “mysterious”…
That feeling is exactly Wednesday Campanella.
The lyrics feature lots of retro games, and the fairly modern, story-like feel is sung over a hip-hop-tinged melody.
Man, once you hear it, you immediately think, “I’ve gotta play that again,” that’s the kind of song this is.
pure-heartedTamaki Kōji
It’s a ballad packed tightly with feelings for one’s mother.
It’s a song by singer-songwriter Koji Tamaki, released in 2013 as his 24th single.
Memories of a mother and the words she gave linger in the heart… The message in the lyrics is so moving it brings tears to the eyes.
He must have had his mother read Momotaro to him when he was a child… If you listen while putting yourself in that position, it will resonate even more.
It’s one of those masterpieces that deeply touches the heart.
morning starLiSA
Inspired by the word “oni,” how about the opening theme of the anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba? This track is sung by LiSA, the rock heroine of the anisong world, and was released in 2021 as her 20th single.
You’re drawn into its dark, grand sound! LiSA’s lustrous vocals shine against the arrangement.
The lyrics, which convey a strong resolve to keep moving forward even while carrying sadness, are also compelling.
It feels like it awakens emotions from deep within the heart.
Kachi-Kachi MountainGacharic Spin
This song uses a folktale motif to deliver a sharp satire of modern society.
It’s a track by the rock band Gacharic Spin, released as a digital single in April 2023 and later included on their July album, W.
The energetic performance and powerful vocals leave a strong impression.
While depicting greed and social contradictions, it urges listeners to overcome negative emotions and live positively.
It’s the perfect song for anyone who wants to keep their head up and push forward.
We are ogres!ONIGAWARA
This song turns the Momotaro legend into a pop anthem.
ONIGAWARA released it in 2018 as the B-side to the digital single “Number One-chan,” and it was also included on the album GAWARA! released that June.
It features a lively rhythm and an accessible melody, carrying a message to rise above social prejudice and enjoy the present together.
Give it a listen when you need a boost of energy!