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.
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.
Let’s go! MomotaroTHE daijobuzu
A poppy, energetic track themed on Momotaro, a sort of legendary Japanese hero! It was released digitally in July 2018 and produced as part of Yoshimoto Kogyo’s “Momotaro” project.
Finished with THE Daijobu’s signature rock sound, it’s a song everyone from kids to adults can enjoy.
Its aggressive performance and lyrics that reinterpret Momotaro’s adventure in a modern way are especially appealing.
How about singing along as a family and diving into the world of “Momotaro”?
Rock-Paper-Scissors Momotaromachi akari
A traditional tale about a baby born from a peach who grows up to defeat ogres transforms into a disco-style song you can play rock-paper-scissors to.
It’s a track brimming with the playful spirit characteristic of Akari Machi, included on her September 2019 album “Akari Oneesan no NikoniKo Henna Uta.” Can you win the persimmon seeds and dried squid hanging at the waist by playing rock-paper-scissors? What a fun idea.
How about everyone at home sings along while playing rock-paper-scissors? You’re sure to have a lively time.
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.
We should talk with the ogres instead of defeating them.Chōnōryoku Senshi Dorian
A unique song by Psychic Warrior Dorian that draws on the motif of a traditional folktale.
It was included on the May 2020 album “Maji Sugē Kessaku” (“Seriously Awesome Masterpiece”).
Reinterpreting the story of Momotaro for modern times, it advocates resolving conflict through dialogue instead of demon-slaying.
While humorous, it emphasizes the importance of solving problems without resorting to violence.
I feel like a lot of old tales really could be “that’s how it might have been” stories.
It’s a fun track where a catchy melody and a socially conscious message blend beautifully.
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!