Japanese sign-language songs; sign-language song(s)
We’ve put together a collection of “sign language songs” that express the lyrics of Japanese music using sign language.
Focusing on popular standards—from J-POP hits to school songs and children’s songs—we’ve carefully selected favorite tracks.
Sign language pairs beautifully with heartwarming, gentle tunes, so we’re introducing a wide range of songs that people of all ages, from young children to seniors, can enjoy signing along to.
There are upbeat numbers that make signing fun, pieces you can combine with dance, and plenty of ways to get creative and enjoy them.
It’s also great for studying sign language, making it perfect for beginners; and of course, those with experience are encouraged to give it a try as well.
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Japanese sign language songs (1–10)
365-Day Paper AirplaneAKB48
AKB48’s “365-Day Paper Airplane,” released in 2015, was used as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Asa ga Kita.
Composed with the TV drama in mind, the song evokes 1970s folk music and, for AKB48, has a calm, gentle feel.
I think that quality makes it a great match for sign-language performances.
In fact, sign language varies from person to person and there’s no single correct answer.
For those with experience, it could be fun to explore your own expression with this song.
And of course, beginners can enjoy it using simple expressions.
By all means, try presenting your own sign-language version!
hometowndōyō
“Furusato” is a Ministry of Education shoka (school song) with lyrics by Tatsuyuki Takano and music by Teiichi Okano, released in 1914 for the sixth grade in the Elementary School Songbook.
It was also sung by EXILE’s ATSUSHI as his first nursery-rhyme cover, released as a digital single in 2012.
Don’t you feel a sense of comfort when you listen to this song? It really makes you think that children’s songs are at the heart of the Japanese spirit.
And when performed in sign language, the slow tempo makes each movement gentle and very calming.
At this pace, it can even serve as brain training for older adults, so why not give it a try? It’s recommended because people of all ages—from small children to seniors—can enjoy it together.
Voice of the SeaKiritani Kenta
A digital single by male singer Kenta Kiritani, who showcases a unique personality across a wide range of fields, including acting and music.
Released under the name Urashima Taro, the character he plays in au’s popular Santaro commercial series, the song features an arrangement whose sanshin and piano tones beautifully evoke the sea, just as the title suggests, and it really sticks in your ears.
In the latter half, the lyrics unfold on a grand scale, making its majesty come through even when expressed in sign language.
With its single-minded devotion and relaxed tempo that resonates in the heart, it’s also a recommended number for sign-language performance.
Japanese Sign Language Songs (11–20)
Until the world becomes oneYa-Ya-yah
A song by Ya-Ya-yah, a Johnny’s Jr.
idol group whose name was inspired by the Japanese title of The Beatles’ “A Hard Day’s Night” (“The Beatles Are Coming: Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!”).
This track was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Nintama Rantarō and is a cover included on the album Nintama Rantarō Original Soundtrack.
Its message of “you’re not alone,” paired with a gentle melody, really touches the heart.
With its relaxed tune and lyrics about great love, it’s also a perfect number for sign-language performance.
MiracleGReeeeN
Among the many artists in today’s J-POP scene who keep their looks private, the four-member vocal group GReeeeN stands out for their exceptional success.
This is their seventh single overall.
It was used as the theme song for the TV drama “ROOKIES” and is also known as GReeeeN’s biggest hit.
There’s a rap section in the middle, but the phrasing isn’t too fast, so it can be expressed in sign language as well.
It’s a well-known song that works great as a sign-language song, with lyrics about powerful love that pair beautifully with the delicacy of signing.
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
This is the 21st single by Yuzu, a folk duo that has produced numerous hit songs as pioneering musicians from the streets.
Chosen as the official theme song for NHK’s coverage of the Athens Olympics, it’s a classic that virtually every Japanese person knows.
Its lyrics affirm dreams and hard work, and the dramatic composition conveys the same powerful energy even in sign language.
It’s a song that gives courage—perfect for when you want to cheer on someone who’s giving their all.
I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu
A song by singer Kyu Sakamoto, who rose to global stardom but passed away suddenly in a 1985 plane crash.
Known overseas under the title “SUKIYAKI,” it became a massive hit not only in Japan but around the world, and it is famous for being the only Japanese-language song to reach No.
1 on the U.S.
Billboard Hot 100.
Its positive lyrics and light, upbeat melody can be beautifully conveyed in sign-language performance while preserving its lyrical atmosphere.
As a globally renowned song, it’s a sure-fire number to perform for anyone.