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Songs from Ponkickies: A roundup of nostalgic classics and popular tracks

“Hirake! Ponkikki,” which aired from 1973 to 1993, and its revamped version “Ponkikies,” which began airing in 1993, are among the most popular children’s programs.

The songs performed on the shows were especially popular, and if you watched them back then, there are probably quite a few tunes you still remember today.

In this article, we introduce nostalgic and popular songs that were featured on Ponkikies.

Even if you’ve forgotten the titles, you’ll likely find many songs that you’ll start humming along to as soon as you hear them!

Songs from Ponkickies: A roundup of nostalgic classics and popular tracks (1–10)

Flapping Mamanokoinoko

♪ Patapata Mama “Big Children’s Day Vol. 2” Koinoko + All-1 Brothers (Ended)
Flapping Mamanokoinoko

This song portrays, from a child’s perspective, the mother who works hard at everyday housework.

When it first aired, it was very popular not only with children but also with parents.

Its straightforward structure—lining up events that happen during that time—and the memorable onomatopoeia woven in make the lyrics easy to remember.

Noko Inoko’s bright, lively vocals, combined with the equally sprightly sound, create a piece that amplifies the joyful feelings found in everyday life.

Swim! Taiyaki-kunbakkudoroppu shinderera

BackDrop Cinderella cover of “Oyoge! Taiyaki-kun” [Full Version]
Swim! Taiyaki-kunbakkudoroppu shinderera

This is a cover by Backdrop Cinderella of Masato Shimon’s Oyoge! Taiyaki-kun, a song that’s symbolic of the Ponkikki series.

It aired on the program in 2017.

As you’d expect from a rock band arrangement, the thick, full band sound is striking, yet it also incorporates the original’s melancholic mood.

The structure—gradually ramping up the tempo and power—is unique as well.

It’s a fun track that showcases the band’s personality while conveying clear respect for the original.

palindromic 21-faced layerYamazaki Seisuke

This song, full of humor and built around palindromes, brims with charm that conveys the fun of language to children.

Set to a lively rhythm, the lyrics depict everyday scenes through palindromes, unfolding one after another, so before you know it you’ll be humming along.

Included on the 1993 album “Hirake! Ponkikki Super Hit Complete Collection” and used on the children’s program “Hirake! Ponkikki,” the track—together with Kiyosuke Yamazaki’s comical vocals—is perfect for parents and children who want to enjoy wordplay.

Why not sing it together as a family and have fun unraveling the mysteries of palindromes?

Songs from Ponkickies: A collection of nostalgic classics and popular tracks (11–20)

Hello, my friendsNEW!Sakushi: Oikawa Nemuko / Sakkyoku: Matsumoto Toshiaki

Hello My Friends [Children’s Song] Lyrics: Nemuko Oikawa / Music: Toshiaki Matsumoto Ponkickies♪
Hello, my friendsNEW!Sakushi: Oikawa Nemuko / Sakkyoku: Matsumoto Toshiaki

This is a classic song by Nemuko Oikawa and Toshiaki Matsumoto, themed around natural scenery like the sky, clouds, and flowers, as well as greetings to friends.

It was broadcast as the ending theme of Fuji TV’s “Hirake! Ponkikki” starting in April 1990, and was included on a single released in May of the same year.

Many people who were children at the time likely remember it as the gentle farewell at the end of the show.

Its words, which seem to call out to children around the world and to nature itself, evoke a sense of anticipation for new encounters.

In March, when farewells and new beginnings intersect, this piece is perfect for children about to graduate from kindergarten or move up a grade.

Like waving toward the wide world, try singing it together at home or in your preschool!

aiueo staruraimisako

Overflowing with emotion and rich in melody, the song “Aiueo Hoshisama” is truly beautiful.

Set to a flowing tune, it lets you hear all 50 Japanese syllables of the “a-i-u-e-o” sequence.

The melody is gentle, making it feel like you could learn the 50 sounds as you sing along.

They say learning through song makes it harder to forget, so I think it’s perfect for children who don’t know the 50 sounds yet or who are just starting to take an interest in them.

Because the song softly and smoothly sings through the 50 sounds, kids will likely find themselves listening, completely absorbed.

Sugar SugarMako

[Hirake! Ponkikki] Mako 'Sugar Sugar'
Sugar SugarMako

Loved for many years as a popular song from “Hirake! Ponkikki,” this piece is characterized by its lively rhythm and sweet imagery in the lyrics.

While themed around sugar, it actually conveys an educational message about the importance of brushing teeth.

Mako’s vocals and the pop melody capture children’s hearts, and since its 1981 release, it has been cherished as one of the show’s signature songs.

The promotional video, which can be enjoyed alongside the animation, is also appealing.

It’s recommended even for children who don’t like brushing their teeth, helping them learn the importance of healthy habits while they sing and dance along.

Peach Heartnokoinoko

"Hirake! Ponkikki" Noko Inoko 'Peach Heart'
Peach Heartnokoinoko

Sung with heartfelt warmth by Nokoinoko, this piece is a charming song about searching for the heart inside a peach.

Its lyrics, which convey the wonder of nature and the importance of life to children, are truly captivating.

Used in the educational TV program “Hirake! Ponkikki” in 1980, the song is especially memorable thanks to Nokoinoko’s light, airy vocals.

It’s also included on the album “Nokoinoko Taizen Returns,” so be sure to give it a listen.

Singing it while recalling the sweetness of peaches will naturally fill you with a cozy, gentle feeling.

It’s also perfect for parents and children to sing and enjoy together!