Recommended Japanese pop songs for elementary school students to sing at karaoke

Shineieiri reo

Leo Ieiri – "Shine"

Released in May 2012 as Leo Ieiri’s second single, this song is one of her signature works.

Also included on the album “LEO,” it weaves in her experiences after moving to Tokyo and her journey of self-discovery.

The lyrics are filled with uplifting energy that pushes listeners forward, and the emotional melody resonates deeply.

Loved by many as an encouraging anthem that helps you recognize your inner light and find the courage to overcome difficulties, it’s a perfect song to ease the anxiety of stepping into a new environment—especially for elementary school students preparing to advance to a new grade or transfer schools.

Geeshōjo jidai

Girls’ Generation Shoujo Jidai ‘Gee’ MV (Japanese Ver.)

A signature song by Girls’ Generation, this hit became the first in Korean chart history to hold No.

1 for nine consecutive weeks.

It captures the fluttery feelings of a girl in love with a catchy melody and addictive lyrics.

The track also achieved the milestone of surpassing 100 million views on YouTube.

A Japanese version was released in January 2011, helping ignite the K-pop boom.

In karaoke, its bright, upbeat vibe and fun choreography make it a crowd-pleaser across generations, from elementary schoolers to adults.

Sing and dance with the whole family, and you’re sure to make wonderful memories.

poseOkazaki Taiiku

[Official] Anime “Pokémon Sun & Moon” Pokémon × Okazaki Taiiku Special MV (Full Version)

It’s the ending theme song of the TV anime “Pokémon Sun & Moon.” With rap-style vocals, a pop sound, and lyrics that cleverly incorporate words from the series, it has become a popular track among elementary school students of all genders.

If I’m wrapped in kindnessMatsutōya Yumi

Wrapped in Gentleness – Yumi Arai (Yumi Matsutoya)

One of Yumi Matsutoya’s signature songs was also used as the ending theme for the film Kiki’s Delivery Service.

Its melody and lyrics, full of gentleness and warmth, resonate with a wide range of generations, from children to adults.

The song is included on the album MISSLIM and has also appeared on numerous best-of and self-cover albums.

In 2020, as part of NHK’s With Corona project, a collaborative version featuring 27 artists from 18 acts connected to Yuming was produced.

It’s a recommended song to enjoy at karaoke with your elementary school–aged child.

If you sing it together as a parent and child, it will surely become a wonderful memory.

Futari SaisonKeyakizaka46

Keyakizaka46 “Futari Saison”

This song portrays the fleeting nature of love and personal growth through the changing seasons.

Paired with choreography that incorporates classical ballet and contemporary dance, it symbolizes both the unity of youth and individual development.

Released in November 2016, the track generated a major response, selling over 350,000 copies on its first day and debuting at No.

1 on the Oricon Daily CD Single Ranking.

It’s a piece packed with the charm of Keyakizaka46, so when you sing it at karaoke, why not feel the passage of the seasons and recall the brilliance of youth? It’s a refreshing, heartfelt song that the whole family can enjoy—and one that lets you deliver a moving vocal performance.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

Himawari no Yakusoku – Motohiro Hata (Full)

This song by Motohiro Hata was written as the theme for the 2014 film STAND BY ME Doraemon.

It’s a memorable track featuring warm yet bittersweet lyrics that depict the relationship between Doraemon and Nobita.

Because it expresses bonds and deep affection, it has become a wedding standard and is often performed at receptions as a solo vocal-and-guitar piece or a piano solo.

The song created a huge buzz, holding the top spot on Japan’s overall iTunes chart for an extended period.

For a more moving piano performance, play the conversational passages lightly, and use the weight of your arms to produce a deeper tone in the soaring sections.

paprikaYonezu Kenshi

#3 [Ensemble by Middle and Senior Kindergarteners] “Paprika”

This song features a bright, energetic melody that captures children’s hearts and lyrics filled with hope.

It was written by Kenshi Yonezu for NHK’s support song project for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and is performed by the children’s music group Foorin.

Centered on the theme of a dialogue between one’s pure childhood self and one’s grown-up self, it carries a self-encouraging message.

Released in August 2020, the song has been loved by people of all ages, from children to adults, and has been performed at various events and concerts.

It’s also perfect for family karaoke—easy to sing and remember, it’s sure to create lasting memories.