[Warabe-uta] Beloved Classic Songs Passed Down Through Generations

Please let me pass.

♪Tōryanse – Touryanse | ♪Tōryanse, tōryanse, what narrow path is this? [Japanese Song / Shoka]

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.

Tanuki of Fist Mountain

Mr. Raccoon Dog of Genkotsu Mountain (with gestures)

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.

[Children’s Song] Oh, Cold, 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.

There once was a stick.

Cute cook

When it comes to classic drawing songs, this is the one.

If you’re Japanese, you’ve probably drawn along to it at least once.

It’s exciting when the cute little chef turns out just like the song says, isn’t it? Even if it doesn’t come out perfectly, everyone’s personality shows through, which is fun too.

I think it would be interesting to use this song as inspiration to make your own drawing song.

Some people have probably done just that.

First, master this song and try drawing lots of cute little chefs.

Singing it with friends is fun as well.

yomogi-jōbu nochildren’s song

Spring children's song / For the April–May seasonal festivals: [Yomogi-Jobu no]. I'd like to play it to coincide with the festival.

An old traditional children’s song.

From the lyrics that mention plants like iris and mugwort, you can sense how people once lived in harmony with abundant nature.

The verses depicting children playfully slapping each other’s bottoms are simple yet heartwarming.

Through this song, we can share with children the playful spirit of the past and the joy of interacting with nature.

How about forming a circle and singing together while playing in a spring meadow? It’s sure to become a cherished memory.

Opened, opened

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

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.