[Tanabata Children's Songs] Fun hand-play songs and a nostalgic collection of traditional nursery rhymes and folk songs
July 7 is Tanabata.
Every year, you see large bamboo branches beautifully decorated in various places, don’t you? Have you decided on your wish to write on a tanzaku yet? In this article, we introduce children’s songs, folk songs, and nursery rhymes perfect for Tanabata.
We’ve gathered pieces themed around Tanabata, starting with the classic “Tanabata-sama” that everyone knows.
There are also songs you can dance to at nursery and kindergarten recitals, as well as hand-play games to enjoy at Tanabata parties.
Use this as a reference and enjoy a fun time with your child!
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Tanabata Children’s Songs: Fun Hand-Play Songs & Nostalgic Traditional Nursery Rhymes and Folk Songs (21–30)
The stars are humming with joySakushi: Murata Sachiko / Sakkyoku: Fujiie Koji
Let me introduce a delightful song that’s a joy to sing: “Hoshi ga Runran.” When you think of Tanabata, many of you probably picture stars and the Milky Way, right? This charming song features stars, and its comfortable rhythm and tempo make it easy to sing! The lyrics are fantastical, opening up a dreamlike world—that’s the highlight.
With a beat that makes you want to dance, children can enjoy singing along, too.
It has a wonderful atmosphere that kids are sure to love, so give it a try!
Song of the Constellationsdeguchi takashi
Let me introduce “The Constellation Song,” a sing-and-learn piece.
Many of you may be looking to explain the meaning and origins of Tanabata to children as part of the festivities.
Orihime is Vega, the first-magnitude star in the Lyra constellation, and Hikoboshi is Altair, the first-magnitude star in the Aquila constellation.
Through “The Constellation Song,” you can convey that stars have various names and that there are different kinds of constellations! By setting the lyrics to a pleasant melody, children can learn while singing.
Give it a try and incorporate it!
I found the first starMonbushō shōka
Let me introduce the Ministry of Education song “Ichibanboshi Mitsuketa” (“I Found the First Star”).
The Ministry of Education songs are a collective term for songs that were taught in Japan’s national schools, which correspond to today’s elementary schools.
How about singing the beloved classic “Ichibanboshi Mitsuketa”? Its simple melody and lyrics make it easy to sing and remember.
It’s a great choice to include in Tanabata gatherings or events as part of games and performances.
It also seems perfect for interactive play with children.
World of Starssanbika
Let’s sing it to the melody of the hymn “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”! Introducing “Hoshi no Sekai” (Starry World).
In connection with Tanabata, how about getting familiar with songs that feature stars? Set to an easy-to-learn melody, children will likely pick it up quickly.
Through the song, their interest in stars and the night sky can grow, and their engagement with Tanabata festivities may deepen as well.
Incorporating it before Tanabata crafts or during morning circle time can help everyone enjoy and appreciate the seasonal tradition more fully.
It’s a song you can sing in a gentle, calm atmosphere!
Candle receiving
A song indispensable to Hokkaido’s Tanabata and a beloved seasonal tradition for children: “Rōsoku Morai.” Set to a simple melody, the lyrics—asking for candles and sweets—leave a strong impression.
Lines like “If you don’t give us any, we’ll scratch you!” add a touch of playful mischief that’s endearing.
“Rōsoku Morai” is said to have connections with Aomori’s Nebuta Festival as well.
Guided by this song, children parade through their neighborhood at night carrying lanterns, creating a quintessential summer evening scene.
It’s also interesting how it resembles Halloween’s trick-or-treat.
This folk song lets you feel the rich diversity of Japanese culture.