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A collection of cheerful nursery rhymes—songs that make you feel happy when you sing them.

There are so many nursery rhymes that are popular with children!

There are songs about animals, songs about food, songs about the seasons—the themes are varied, and each song has its own mood.

In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of especially cheerful songs from among the most popular nursery rhymes all at once!

We’ve gathered lots of songs that will put you in a happy mood whether you listen to them or sing along.

Please sample the songs we introduce below, and be sure to enjoy listening to and singing your favorites!

A collection of cheerful nursery rhymes: songs that make you feel happy when you sing them (1–10)

your smile

Your Smile [With Mother] {Akagon Dance}
your smile

Bright and uplifting, “Kimi no Egao” is a feel-good song that won’t be defeated even by a rainy day.

Try singing it with the children, making eye contact and smiling.

Adding gestures and movements can make it even more fun to sing.

Pay attention to the lyrics, too—they’ll fill you with energy that won’t lose to the summer heat.

It’s perfect for singing under the glittering summer sun.

Sing this heart-boosting song and share the importance of smiles with the children.

Let’s all sing it together with lots of energy!

When the Dock (Japanese knotweed) blooms

Children’s song: When Sorrel Blooms (Skampo no Saku Koro) — Lyrics by Hakushū Kitahara, Music by Kōsaku Yamada
When the Dock (Japanese knotweed) blooms

Let me introduce “When the Dock Blooms,” a song with a gentle melody and a bright tempo.

It’s a song about a flower called sukanpo (dock) that blooms in spring.

This warm children’s song evokes nostalgia, depicting children playing happily and energetically in the fields.

Because it includes repeated phrases that help you feel the season, even children around two years old can enjoy joining in.

Of course, it’s also a soothing piece for babies from 0 years old to listen to.

Be sure to try singing it with your children.

One, two, three

One, Two, Three! / Together with Mother (Covered by UtaSuta) [The big sister dances!]
One, two, three

Let me introduce the upbeat song “One, Two, Three.” The lyrics feature animals like frogs and penguins.

It might be fun to change the way you jump for each animal, adding variety to your movements as you dance.

As you sing, it turns into an energizing song that fills you with hope and courage for the future.

Try dancing and enjoying it while imagining a bright future! Adding some hand claps might make it even more fun.

A collection of cheerful children’s songs: tracks that make you feel happy when you sing them (11–20)

The Goldfish’s Nap

Goldfish’s Nap ♪ [Children’s song / nursery rhyme] Cute goldfish in a red kimono ~ with lyrics animation / Japanese kids song
The Goldfish’s Nap

The relaxed song “Goldfish’s Nap” is a popular children’s nursery rhyme.

If you sing it as a lullaby at nap time, some kids find it so soothing that they fall asleep right away.

The gentle movements of the goldfish—and the moments when it seems to pause completely—are adorable and make it feel as if the goldfish itself is napping.

The lyrics are easy to remember, so if you sing it repeatedly, children can sing along.

It’s also recommended to sing it together with a picture book that features goldfish.

Yaho-ho

With hand motions: “Yaho-ho” – A popular song from Okaasan to Issho, children’s song, kids’ song
Yaho-ho

Lyrics that call out like “Yah-ho-ho!” are so much fun to sing, aren’t they? Some children might call out with energetic voices.

In those moments, try replying with a cheerful “Yah-ho!” like an echo—it makes things even more fun and is highly recommended.

Enjoy varying the volume of your voice, making it louder and softer.

Open your palms and add a motion as if you’re raising them toward the sun while you sing.

And at the end, try singing even more energetically!

Let's dance, Ondo!

This is a participatory Bon Odori song that everyone can enjoy moving their bodies to.

The comical vocals and lively rhythm combine to create an atmosphere that naturally makes you want to dance as you listen.

The choreography that matches the lyrics is easy to follow, making it perfect for getting everyone excited at preschools or local summer festivals.

With moves like fireworks and hand claps, you’ll listen on with anticipation, wondering what comes next.

The instrumental tones are vibrant, and the balance with the vocals is exquisite.

A major appeal is that children can shout along, move their bodies, and have fun together.

Whether dancing in yukata or hero costumes, this song lets you fully feel the bustle of summer.

The stars are good friendsMe and you.

[July/Tanabata Star Hand Play] The Stars Are Good Friends ≪Must Read≫ If you use it in childcare, be sure to check the description below ↓ Lyrics/Composition: Boku to Kimi.
The stars are good friends—me and you.

Let’s have fun with a fingerplay! Introducing “Ohoshisama wa Nakayoshi.” This is a great idea for anyone looking for fingerplay activities that match the season or special events.

“Ohoshisama wa Nakayoshi” is a unique fingerplay where you use your palms as stars while you play.

The rhythm is pleasant and the tempo is gentle, so it can be enjoyed by a wide range of children, from infants to preschoolers.

The lyrics are cute too, so try singing and playing together with the kids.

It also works well as an introduction before a Tanabata craft activity!