Popular children's songs. Japanese music artist rankings [2026]

SmileKamisiraishi Moka15rank/position

Smile / Moka Kamishiraishi [Sports Day, School Performance Dance] Easy Dance Choreography

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 Motohiro16rank/position

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video

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 Dai17rank/position

Hirai Dai / My Little Rose (Lyric Video)

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）18rank/position

[Pokémon OP] 1・2・3 / After the Rain (Soraru × Mafumafu)

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!

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Araki Jakkan

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100% CourageHikaru GENJI19rank/position

100% Courage

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.

DoraemonHoshino Gen20rank/position

Tried dancing Doraemon! [Playtime] [Dance] [Kirari Nursery School]

Let’s try dancing to Gen Hoshino’s song “Doraemon.” Everyone can wear a bell around their necks, with girls putting yellow Dorami pom-poms on their wrists and boys blue Doraemon pom-poms—colorful, fun, and sure to boost the energy.

The choreography itself is simple and easy to remember, but stepping on one foot and shaking your hips from side to side can also help improve motor skills.

If it’s too difficult, feel free to simplify the movements.

Have fun and give it a try!

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Cheer of StarlightGReeeeN21rank/position

GReeeeN – “Hoshikage no Yell” MUSIC VIDEO

It’s a wonderful song by GReeeeN, marked by a warm melody that conveys feelings to someone dear.

From the birth of a baby to the meetings and farewells of life, it gently portrays people supporting one another, staying close like guiding stars.

It carries a heartwarming message filled with love and hopes for children.

Released in June 2020, it was loved by many as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Yell.” It’s a recommended track for guardians watching over their children’s growth and for anyone wanting to express their feelings to someone important.

How about spending some time wrapped in warmth, listening to it together with your child?