RAG MusicJapanese Songs
Lovely nursery rhymes, folk songs, and children's songs

[Sky-Themed Nursery Rhymes and Songs] Children’s Songs Loved Across Generations

There are many nursery rhymes, school songs, and traditional children’s songs that take the sky as their theme or evoke images of the sky.

Even when we say “the sky,” the scenes vary widely—from the freshness of a clear blue sky, to the beauty of a sunset, to the mystery of a starry night.

In this article, we introduce heartwarming nursery rhymes, school songs, and traditional children’s songs that sing about the sky.

You might even find a familiar title that makes you hum the melody without thinking! Enjoy these classic songs that depict the sky as you gaze at it at different times of day.

[Children’s Songs of the Sky] Timeless Kids’ Songs Loved Across Generations (21–30)

rainfallsakushi: kitahara hakushū / sakkyoku: nakayama shinpei

Since its publication in the magazine Kodomo no Kuni in 1925, this beloved Japanese children’s song has been passed down through generations.

The term “janome” in the lyrics refers to a janome-gasa, a traditional bullseye-patterned paper umbrella that is rarely seen today, and the lyrics evocatively recall that era.

Why not enjoy a rainy day with your child while singing pichi-pichi, chappu-chappu?

black kiteMonbushō shōka

Ministry of Education Shoka (School Song) — Tombi (Black Kite)
black kiteMonbushō shōka

This children’s song, which begins with the opening line “Tobe tobe tonbi,” is likely familiar to many who remember learning it in music class.

The “pii-hyoro” cry of the black kite in the lyrics vividly conveys the lively image of the bird.

red dragonflyYuki Saori

Red Dragonfly - Saori Yuki, Shoko Yasuda (with lyrics) - Children’s song
red dragonflyYuki Saori

A classic that gently reflects the Japanese landscape and the hearts of children.

Miki Rofu’s lyrics and Yamada Kosaku’s music harmonize beautifully, vividly depicting the rural scenery at dusk.

The lyrics evoke nostalgic childhood memories, and the simple yet deeply moving melody is a hallmark of the piece.

Saori Yuki’s clear, translucent voice further enhances its charm.

Since its release in 1927, it has continued to be loved by many.

It’s perfect for listening at a relaxed pace by the window on an autumn evening.

A healing song that envelops you in warmth and nostalgia.

Early Spring OdeSakushi: Ichimasa Yoshimaru / Sakkyoku: Akira Nakata

Evoking the arrival of spring, this piece is a celebrated work composed in the Taisho era.

Its lyrics, which sing of the joy of melting snow and the beauty of nature, resonate deeply.

Delicately portraying the beauty of the changing seasons and the shifts in human emotion, it expresses the longing for spring, along with the accompanying anticipation and bittersweetness, leaving a profound impression on listeners.

It’s a song that can be enjoyed by a wide range of ages, from children to adults, so why not listen to it with your family?

Seven-year-old childHamano Riri

A VTuber who doesn’t even try to hide their reincarnation destination #shorts #funny
Seven-year-old childHamano Riri

Written by Ujo Noguchi, known for songs like “Shabondama” and “Red Shoes,” this gentle children’s song overflows with kindness, vividly conjuring the image of a mother crow warmly raising her seven chicks.

The idea that crows aren’t crying “caw, caw,” but rather “cute, cute,” is truly wonderful, isn’t it?

Big Song

Large song, round, with vocals: verse 1, verse 2, verse 3, coda
Big Song

Beloved in its round (canon) form, this children’s song brings a soothing moment of peace.

Its lyrics—evoking the grandeur of nature with images like mountains, the sun, and the sky, and suggesting hope through words like heart and dream—leave a lasting impression.

Taught in school music classes since the 1970s, it has been cherished for many years.

It’s also known as a recreation song often sung at camps, perfect for enjoying with family and friends.

Because you can sing by echoing what your friends just sang without overlapping the lyrics, even first-timers can easily enjoy singing it as a round.

MoonTaki Rentarō

The Moon (Autumn Moon) / Rentaro Taki Michiko Tai
MoonTaki Rentarō

There are many children’s songs with the moon as their theme, but among them, “Tsuki” composed by Rentarō Taki is perhaps especially famous.

Although Taki is known as a composer, he actually wrote the lyrics for this “Tsuki” as well.

Picture the moon floating in the autumn sky and give it a listen.