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Lovely nursery rhymes, folk songs, and children's songs

Nursery rhymes to sing in spring: a collection of classic songs you'll want to sing with your children

When you feel the arrival of spring, do gentle melodies of children’s spring songs ever come to mind? Wouldn’t it be lovely to share the warmth of the season and the beauty of nature with your child through seasonal songs? Children’s songs are made with gentle words and rhythms that are easy for little ones to enjoy, and they have the power to warmly embrace parent–child communication.

In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of children’s songs perfect for spring.

While out for a walk or playing at home, try finding a favorite tune and singing it together!

Children’s songs to sing in spring: a collection of classics you’ll want to sing with your kids (1–10)

Happy HinamatsuriSakushi: Yamano Saburō (Satō Hachirō) / Sakkyoku: Kawamura Naonori (Kawamura Kōyō)

Speaking of early-spring events, Hinamatsuri (Girls’ Day) comes to mind—so this beloved children’s song is a must! “Ureshii Hinamatsuri,” with lyrics by poet Hachiro Sato and music by composer Naonori Kawamura, was released in 1936 and has been cherished ever since.

When you hear “Hinamatsuri,” this song pops into your head first, doesn’t it? That’s how deeply it’s rooted in the hearts of the Japanese people.

Many artists have covered it, so you might enjoy searching for a version that suits your taste.

Spring StreamSakushi: Takano Tatsuyuki / Sakkyoku: Okano Teiichi

This is a famous Japanese children’s song created by the duo of lyricist Tatsuyuki Takano and composer Teiichi Okano.

It is said to depict the scenery of the Kōhone River, which flowed around present-day Yoyogi in Shibuya Ward, where Takano lived at the time.

It’s a song that inevitably comes to mind when you see a brook in spring.

spring breezeSakushi: Katō Yoshikiyo / Sakkyoku: Fositā

Born from lyrics by Yoshikiyo Kato and a melody by Stephen Foster, “Harukaze” (Spring Breeze) is a song that captures the arrival of spring and its refreshing feel.

The lyrics depict the spring breeze blowing in many places, conjuring light, pleasant imagery.

At the same time, there is a part that wishes the wind would not blow, evoking a small drama within peaceful everyday life.

This song lets you feel the warmth of spring while also tasting a touch of wistfulness and impatience.

It’s a piece that offers a comfortable springtime moment not only to children but also to preschool teachers.

butterflySakushi: Nomura Akio / Sakkyoku: Supein min’yō

Children's song animation 'Chōchō' with singing — nursery rhyme, Japanese children's song
butterflySakushi: Nomura Akio / Sakkyoku: Supein min'yō

As a spring children’s song, “Butterfly” is practically indispensable—almost everyone knows it.

Like many nursery rhymes, it’s actually an overseas tune that later received Japanese lyrics.

The original is a German children’s song themed around a little boy named “Little Hans” who sets off on a journey.

While the first verse is by far the most famous, there are actually four verses: sparrows appear in the second, dragonflies in the third, and swallows in the fourth.

It’s one of those songs that instantly puts you in a spring mood the moment you hum it.

Opened, openedwarabe uta

♪Opened, opened – Hiraita Hiraita | ♪Opened, opened, what flower has opened? [Japanese song / children’s song]
Opened, openedwarabe uta

Long beloved as a traditional Japanese children’s song, this piece enchants with lyrics that evoke the arrival of spring.

Children enjoy joining hands to form a circle and act out flowers opening and closing.

Despite its simple words and melody, it embodies Japanese views of nature and impermanence, giving it profound appeal.

It is often sung in kindergartens and nursery schools, contributing to children’s emotional development.

Passed down since the Edo period, this song is recommended for those who want to feel the spring season or experience traditional Japanese culture.

Why not sing it with your child and enjoy the coming of spring together?