[Camp Songs] Classic camping songs. Campfire songs you can play along with

Whistling

Whistle (from Colonel Bogey) / Nishirokugo Boys Choir [Asahi Sonorama Edition]

This song, which somehow became famous through the parody “Monkeys, Gorillas, and Chimpanzees,” was originally a different piece.

The parody got so popular that most people have probably never heard the original.

It began as a passage from a march called “Colonel Bogey,” which was imported to Japan and became a staple at school sports days and similar events.

By the way, “Bogey” isn’t a person’s name—it’s a golf term.

Youth CyclingComposer: Masao Koga / Lyrics: Kikuko Tanaka

Kazuya Kosaka - Youth Cycling

As the title suggests, it’s a perfect outdoor song with a cycling theme.

Composed by Masao Koga with lyrics by Kikuko Tanaka, it was released in 1957.

The original was performed by country singer Kazuya Kosaka—nicknamed the “Japanese Elvis.”

Oklahoma Mixer

folk dance

When it comes to folk dance songs well known in Japan, this one likely comes to mind.

Some of you may even remember the thrill of this dance, where partners change one after another.

In Japan, the song used in this dance is recognized as “Turkey in the Straw,” but in actual Oklahoma Mixers in the United States, other folk songs are also used and the choreography differs.

If you do a folk dance around a campfire, you’ll create unforgettable memories filled with nostalgia and fun.

The railroad tracks go on forever.

Japanese Children’s Song – Dōyō – The railroad tracks go on forever – Senro wa tsuzuku yo dokomade mo – せんろはつづくよ どこまでも

“Senro wa tsuzuku yo doko made mo,” a staple at kindergartens and daycare centers, is also a classic for camps and train trips.

In fact, this song was originally created as a work song for the laborers who built the railways.

The original lyrics are said to have described the harsh working conditions of constructing the transcontinental railroad.

While it later became famous with lyrics that evoke a cheerful train journey, it has a unique background—so why not share this bit of trivia during a spare moment?

A Gift Without a StampLyrics and Music by Kazuo Zaitsu

A gift without a stamp - Suginami

This song was written and composed by Kazuo Zaizu of Tulip and was premiered in 1977 on the NHK music program “Uta wa Tomodachi.” According to Zaizu, it was created in response to a request to write a song like the American popular tune “You Are My Sunshine.” Now that you mention it, they do sound similar.

It has been covered by many artists over the years.

Many of you have probably sung it in a choir or in music class.

Sarasponda

Sarasponda

Originally a Dutch folk song, this piece is said to have been sung while spinning thread.

We may not understand the meaning in Japan, but it’s a rather fun song, isn’t it? The proper way to perform it is to split into two groups—one singing the lyrics and the other singing the rhythm—and sing a cappella.

So it’s a perfect song for places like camps where there are no instruments.

By the way, in the early 1990s, a parody version of this song was used in a commercial for salad-only spaghetti.

Let's dance, fun Polechke!Lyrics by Mikiharu Kobayashi / Music: Polish folk song

Let's Dance, Fun Polęczka / Tokyo Broadcasting Children's Chorus [Asahi Sonorama Edition]

Here is a waltz (in 3/4 time) based on a Polish folk song.

It was first broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1962.

It was also included in school textbooks, so some of you may have sung it.

“Porechike” means a light polka.

Listening to this piece conjures images of Polish people in traditional costumes dancing.

Wouldn’t it be fun to play this song and do a folk dance around a campfire?