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

Odoru Pompoko RinB.B. Kuīnzu29rank/position

Chibi Maruko-chan First Ending Theme: “Odoru Pompokorin”

Released in 1990, this was B.B.

Queens’ debut single that sparked a massive craze.

As the ending theme for the anime Chibi Maruko-chan, it played in households across Japan and became a national hit that everyone—from kids to adults—could sing and dance to.

It also drew attention for having lyrics written by the original creator, Momoko Sakura.

In fact, the group was a masked super-unit planned by Being, packed with top-tier talent; the outstanding performances by artists like Fusanosuke Kondo and Yuko Tsubokura underpin the irresistibly upbeat sound.

Its mysterious, whimsical phrases stick in your head after just one listen.

The moment you hear the intro, the excitement of those days comes rushing back—a song that truly defines its era.

pupilaiko30rank/position

aiko - “Hitomi” (from Live Blu-ray/DVD ‘My 2 Decades 2’)

A song by aiko that sings of deep love for a baby and the mystery of life is perfect for posting baby videos on Instagram Reels.

It’s a gentle, warm ballad with a moving message.

Included on the album “Kanojo,” released in March 2006, it was also used in a Kao Humming commercial.

The lyrics celebrate the birth of new life, making it ideal for those who want to preserve memories of days with their baby.

Use it in Stories or Reels, and it will surely highlight your baby’s cuteness even more.

Give it a try!

Let’s hold handsMakihara Noriyuki31rank/position

Song: “Let’s Hold Hands” … 4-year-olds (Kiku Class)

This song is a warm and gentle piece that stays close to children’s hearts.

The lyrics are simple yet deeply meaningful, softly reminding us of the importance of holding hands.

Born from efforts to support recovery after the Great East Japan Earthquake, the song was released in 2011 and resonated with many people.

Designed so children can sing it easily, it’s perfect for events at nurseries and kindergartens, as well as for everyday childcare.

If everyone holds hands and sings together, it will surely become a wonderful time filled with smiles.

Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE32rank/position

[Sports Day Dance, Easy Choreography] Blue and Summer [Elementary School, Recital, Kids Dance]

Packed with the refreshing spirit of summer youth, this song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE features an upbeat melody and exhilarating rock sound that make kids want to dance.

The lyrics, which depict the sparkle of youth and the hint of romance that comes with the start of summer, resonate with listeners of all ages.

Released in August 2018 as the band’s seventh single and the theme song for the film “Ao-Natsu: Kimi ni Koi Shita 30-Nichi,” it has long been loved as one of their signature tracks.

It surpassed 100 million streams in August 2020 and reached 500 million streams in January 2024, becoming a massive hit.

It’s a perfect pick for energetic kids who want to dance and is ideal for events like school sports days and performances.

Its bright, positive tone helps teach children the joy of self-expression through dance.

The One and Only Flower in the WorldSMAP33rank/position

The One and Only Flower in the World — a moving song! Let’s all sing and dance together!

A warm message that says each person carries a different seed and should let their own unique flower bloom gently encourages children who are about to spread their wings and enter elementary school—this is “The One and Only Flower in the World.” It’s incredibly famous as one of SMAP’s signature songs, but in fact it was originally included on their 2002 album “SMAP 015/Drink! Smap!” It drew attention as the theme song for the drama “Boku no Ikiru Michi” starring Tsuyoshi Kusanagi, and was later released as a single in March 2003.

The friendly, approachable melody by Noriyuki Makihara suits the voices of senior kindergarteners very well.

Nurturing a spirit of valuing one’s individuality, this piece is also perfect for choral performances incorporating sign language.

It will surely become a moving stage that conveys gratitude to parents and the joy of growth.

miracleUru34rank/position

[Official] Uru “Kiseki” YouTube ver. Theme song for TBS Friday drama “Kounodori”

This song gently sings about the miracle of a new life being born.

With a soft, translucent voice, it conveys the preciousness of life and the joy and gratitude that accompany its arrival.

Beginning with a warm piano melody and gradually expanding into a grand sound, the piece evokes the bond between parent and child and the love of family.

Released in November 2017, it was chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “Kounodori,” harmonizing beautifully with the human drama set in the world of obstetric medicine.

It is also included on Uru’s first album, “Monochrome,” and has warmed the hearts of many.

This is a song you’ll want to listen to when you wish to feel unconditional love for babies and children, or when you want to reflect on precious moments with family.

Your ColorSakushi/Sakkyoku: Edamamenzu35rank/position

[February 2020 Song of the Month] Kimi Iro [With Mother] (cover by UtaSuta)

Airing as the Monthly Song for February 2020 on NHK’s popular program “Okaasan to Issho,” this track is a bright pop song themed around a colorful world.

Written and composed by Edamame-ns, its lyrics stand out for featuring colors like red, blue, and yellow one after another.

As the title “Kimi Iro” (“Your Color”) suggests, the song conveys a message about valuing one’s own individuality and that of others through the motif of color.

Stimulating children’s curiosity and sensibilities, it’s often used at nursery and kindergarten recitals and is said to bring out children’s smiles and unique personalities.

Sing and dance along with three-year-olds, and the fun is guaranteed to double!