Popular children's songs. Japanese music artist rankings [2026]
Kids’ interests are incredibly flexible—they can latch onto anything from anime and superhero shows to variety programs and dramas.
So this time, we’re introducing a ranking of Japanese music artists popular with children.
We’re sure you’ll find a new favorite artist!
- Children’s Song Rankings [2026]
- Ranking of Popular Japanese Pop (J-POP) Artists Among Elementary School Students [2026]
- Popular Songs Ranking for Toddlers
- Popular Cute Songs: Japanese Music/J-Pop Artist Rankings [2026]
- Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-Pop Artists Among Junior High School Students [2026]
- Idol Song Rankings [2026]
- Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Among Elementary School Girls [2026]
- Popular Karaoke: Artist Rankings [2026]
- [Elementary School Students] Popular Song Rankings by Generation [2026]
- Top Songs to Hype Up Sports Day and Athletic Festivals [2026]
- Ranking of Popular Children's Songs [2026]
- Children’s Songs: Karaoke Rankings [2026]
- Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Artist Rankings [2026]
Popular Children's Songs. Japanese Music Artist Rankings [2026] (11–20)
birthdayKumaki Anri11rank/position
It’s a heartfelt message song that tells you that the very fact you’re alive is something wonderful.
It’s a signature track by singer-songwriter Anri Kumaki, released in 2008 as her 12th single.
After it was used as background music in a news program segment introducing newborn babies, it began to be widely listened to.
If you listen to it while looking at your own child’s face, you might find tears welling up.
That’s how moving this number is.
The Root of the Heartsakushi sakkyoku: Minami Yume12rank/position
This piece, written and composed by Yume Minami, who has extensive experience in childcare and early childhood education, expresses children’s growth as the accumulation of small daily changes, with the hope that these build the emotional foundation that will support their future.
Included on the album “Columbia Kids: Songs for the First Journey—Graduation Songs,” released in November 2016, it has become a staple for kindergarten graduation ceremonies.
However, its theme of cherishing first friends and new encounters also makes it perfect for entrance ceremonies and the start of a new school year.
It is a classic springtime song that beautifully marks new beginnings, ideal for parents and teachers to sing as they wish for the healthy growth of the children ahead.
rainbowSakushi: Shinzawa Toshihiko / Sakkyoku: Nakagawa Hirotaka13rank/position
The song “Niji,” which everyone can sing together, is a simple, warm piece that evokes a sense of nostalgia.
When it rains, we sometimes feel sad because we can’t hang out the laundry or the events we were looking forward to get postponed.
But when a beautiful rainbow stretches across the sparkling sky after the rain, those sad feelings just blow away.
Even children who don’t like rain will surely start looking forward to the clear skies after singing this song.
Be sure to try singing it on a rainy day.
To the children’s futureKetsumeishi14rank/position
This song is imbued with deep love for children and a wish for their brilliant future.
It poses the question of what we, as parents and as members of society, can pass on to the next generation.
It is also a grand prayer for a future so happy it surpasses our imagination.
Released in June 2008, the track was featured in a corporate commercial for Mizuho Financial Group and was also included on the acclaimed album “Ketsunopolis 6.” It is a song meant to be delivered to the young people who will carry the future.
rainbow-coloredayaka15rank/position
With its warm, comforting melody and powerful vocals, this song gently enfolds a hope-filled moment, as if welcoming the birth of new life.
Released in June 2014 as a single by Ayaka, it was written as the theme song for the NHK drama series Hanako to Anne.
Portraying the story of a life everyone walks, the process of shaping oneself step by step, and hope for the future, the piece—centered on the tender tones of an acoustic guitar—closely resonates with the listener’s heart.
It’s a song that gives a gentle push forward, perfect for moments of new beginnings such as weddings or childbirth, inspiring you to face ahead and walk in your own way.
SmileKamisiraishi Moka16rank/position
Starting with a refreshing morning greeting, moving through fun playtime at noon, and ending with a moment of gazing at the night sky, this song brightly and breezily depicts various scenes of a day.
Released by Moka Kamishiraishi in June 2015 as the opening theme for the NHK E-Tele anime “Hanakappa,” it features a rhythmic, bouncy melody and lyrics sprinkled with playful wordplay.
The themes are staying positive and the importance of a smile, carrying a message to keep smiling anytime, anywhere.
It’s a perfect track for a dance segment at a school sports day, and dancing with lively choreography is sure to bring smiles to parents’ faces as well.
Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro17rank/position
It’s a moving ballad whose lyrics speak to the warmth of having someone precious by your side and ask what you can do for that person.
This song makes you realize that everyday life, which seems so ordinary, is actually an irreplaceable treasure.
Its message—that even if you’re apart, your hearts remain connected—will surely give you courage! Released in August 2014 as the theme song for the film “STAND BY ME Doraemon,” it has since become one of Motohiro Hata’s signature works.
His gentle yet powerful voice will softly stay by your side.
It’s a perfect song for moments when you want to express gratitude to someone special, or for occasions like weddings.
Why not listen while thinking of the person who is like a “sunflower” to you?
My Little RoseHirai Dai18rank/position
A song like a love letter that Dai Hirai dedicated to his beloved child.
It conveys the joy of becoming a parent, the worries, and the deep love, all set to a gentle melody that celebrates a child’s birth.
Released digitally in September 2022, the track is said to even include the baby’s first cry.
It’s a warm piece that lets you feel the preciousness of new life and the bonds of family.
Perfect for expressing gratitude to someone special or for listening together as a parent and child.
Highly recommended for those raising children or eagerly awaiting the birth of their own.
1, 2, 3After the Rain（soraru × mafumafu）19rank/position
If you’re thinking about what will appeal to kids, this is probably where you’ll end up.
It’s a song used as an opening theme for the anime Pokémon.
The track is by the vocalist duo After the Rain and was released digitally in 2019.
It also drew attention when Takanori Nishikawa, Shou Kiryuin, and the Nogizaka46 sub-unit, Karaage Shimai, performed it.
It’s an upbeat tune that makes your excitement unstoppable, with a spirited call to go see a world you’ve never seen before!
100% CourageHikaru GENJI20rank/position
The theme song of the anime Nintama Rantaro is packed with messages that boost energy and courage! Released in May 1993, the song was brought to fame by Hikaru GENJI and has since been passed down and performed by junior groups like Hey! Say! JUMP and Sexy Zone.
Its bright, positive lyrics and lively rhythm blend beautifully.
When you listen to it when you’re feeling down, discouraged, or on the verge of giving up a challenge, it mysteriously gives you a push forward.
It’s also perfect as BGM for sports days and athletic festivals, or as a dance track.
It’s a song that accompanies scenes where everyone works up a sweat together and gets absorbed in what they’re doing.