[Warabe-uta] Beloved Classic Songs Passed Down Through Generations
Nursery rhymes that have been passed down in Japan since long ago.
There are many types of nursery rhymes, including drawing songs, counting songs, and play songs.
Many of you probably sang and played games like Kagome Kagome and Hana Ichi Monme at least once when you were children.
In this article, we introduce popular nursery rhymes.
If you want to remember the nursery rhymes you sang as a child or enjoy them with your kids, be sure to give them a listen!
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[Warabe-uta] Beloved Nostalgic Songs Passed Down Through Generations (31–40)
Bet one and two
This nostalgic Japanese counting song, sung to a traditional tune, is called “Ikakake Nikakete” (“One flick, two flicks”).
It follows the numbers and is sung with a pleasant rhythm.
At first you might think it’s a cute children’s counting song, but surprisingly, partway through it shifts into a slightly spooky, story-like narrative.
Still, true to its nursery-rhyme roots, it ends with a game of rock-paper-scissors—keeping kids entertained all the way through.
It’s also nice that it teaches a bit of history, set in Kagoshima, Kyushu.
The lyrics vary by region, each with its own expressions.
Why not look into the different versions?
The rice cracker is done.
This is a children’s song where beanbags are imagined as rice crackers.
Beanbags are familiar to older generations, but kids of the 2000s might not know them well.
It could be refreshing to put down your smartphone or computer once in a while and try playing with beanbags.
The song is simple and easy to learn, so even small children can enjoy it.
It might also be nice for parents and children to make beanbags together to play along with the song.
When playing outside, you can substitute leaves or stones for beanbags.
It’s easy to enjoy, so give it a try.
Please let me pass.
When people hear Tōryanse, many probably find themselves humming along without thinking.
That’s how familiar this song is to Japanese people.
Many of you may have also played the game that goes with it.
You’ve likely seen the scene at school where friends form a “bridge” with their arms and others pass underneath.
Playing this game can be a way to make friends at school.
Even very young children can learn it quickly, so invite your classmates and give it a try.
It’s also fun to play not just at school, but with the whole family at home.
Sunset glow and dusk
“Yuyake Koyake” is a familiar tune often heard in the 5 p.
m.
chimes or announcements at parks, schools, and community centers.
The fact that this song makes you feel it’s time to head home is proof of how long it’s been loved.
Its short lyrics are part of the charm—easy to remember and easy to sing.
And the second verse, which you rarely hear outside of elementary school classes, might already feel nostalgic.
If you listen to it again after a long time, it may bring back memories from those days and let you bask in that sense of nostalgia.
Opened, opened
This is a song that’s fun to play with a group.
Some adults might feel nostalgic when they hear the melody and remember playing games like this.
Everyone holds hands in a circle, spreads out at the part that says “hiraita” (opened), and gathers toward the center at “tsubonda” (closed).
It’s an easy game, so try learning it and playing it at school.
Since you hold hands, it helps deepen friendships.
It’s also recommended for strengthening class bonds.
And it could be nice to try it with your family outside of school, too.
[Warabe-uta] Beloved Nostalgic Songs Passed Down Through Generations (41–50)
Tanuki of Fist Mountain
I think most of you have heard this song at least once.
Some people may know just the song, while others know the dance moves as well.
You play rock-paper-scissors at the end of the song, which gives it a fun, game-like feel.
It’s perfect for playing with friends in kindergarten or elementary school.
Adults can also give it a try and feel like kids again! It’s great to do together with your children, too.
The choreography follows the lyrics, so it’s easy to learn and simple.
Give it a try!
Brr, it's so cold.
“Oosamu Kosamu” is a song with a catchy phrase that every generation has heard at least once.
It can also be sung as a round partway through, making it fun for groups.
Singing it with friends or classmates doubles the enjoyment.
It’s a great pick for kids who love to sing.
It works solo, with friends, or with family—any way you like.
Give singing it as a round a try with everyone.
And as the title suggests, it’s a winter song, so it’s perfect for the colder months.