Nostalgic Children’s Songs, Folk Songs, and Nursery Rhymes: The Heart of Japan Passed Down Through Song
When we hear the gentle melodies of nostalgic children’s songs, folk songs, and nursery rhymes, memories from our early childhood come vividly rushing back, as if we’ve crossed time and space.
Perhaps you, too, have a “song of nostalgia” that has stayed with you since you were young.
In this article, we introduce iconic Japanese children’s songs (shoka), folk songs and nursery rhymes cherished and passed down across the regions, as well as beloved tunes often featured in school performances and recreational activities.
Shall we set off on a heartwarming sonic journey into the world of children’s songs that softly reflect Japan’s seasons, culture, and everyday life?
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[Nostalgic Children's Songs, Folk Songs, and Nursery Rhymes] The Heart of Japan Passed Down in Song (11–20)
The Bear of the ForestAmerican folk song
This nursery song, depicting a charming encounter in the forest, spread nationwide in 1972 when Dark Ducks performed it on NHK’s “Minna no Uta.” With its humorous story and familiar melody, it warmly conveys the bear’s gentle thoughtfulness.
In October of the same year, a single was released by King Records, with a Russian folk song on the B-side.
Because it can be sung in an echo-song format, it’s perfect for campfires and kindergarten choruses! Its lively 4/4 rhythm makes it easy for everyone to have fun singing together while naturally learning the melody.
hometownLyrics by Tatsuyuki Takano / Music by Teiichi Okano
Blue mountains, pure waters, and memories of childhood play.
The melody that gently embraces the nostalgic scenery of one’s hometown and feelings for family and friends living far away possesses a universal charm that resonates with everyone’s heart.
First released in 1914 as a Ministry of Education school song, this piece strongly reflects the rural landscapes and lifestyles of Japan at the time.
It was also sung at the closing ceremony of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, moving many people.
It is truly a song that symbolizes the spirit of Japan.
Mr. ElephantLyrics: Michio Mado / Music: Ikuma Dan
Created by Michio Mado and Ikuma Dan, this piece was first broadcast on NHK Radio in May 1952.
Characterized by a gentle triple-time melody and heartwarming lyrics that inspire affection for one’s individuality, it has been frequently featured on educational and children’s television programs and is beloved across generations.
Its melody, as tender as a spring breeze, is perfect for parents and children to hum together.
Singing it while taking a walk will make for even more delightful memories.
seaNEW!Lyrics by: Ryūha Hayashi / Music by: Takeshi Inoue
A well-known school song that conjures up vivid images of the vast blue sea.
It’s also famous that lyricist Ryuha Hayashi and composer Takeshi Inoue both came from Gunma Prefecture, which has no coastline.
Perhaps that’s why the piece overflows with pure awe and longing for a scene they encountered for the first time.
Introduced in a Ministry of Education textbook in 1941, it was later selected in 2007 as one of the “100 Best Japanese Songs.” Many people may find childhood memories of singing it coming back.
It’s a classic that brings gentle moments, inviting parents and children to hum along together.
FlowerRentaro Taki
A renowned Japanese song that depicts a serene spring scene and people spending time peacefully while gazing at the cherry blossoms along the Sumida River.
It is a work by Rentaro Taki, who composed numerous children’s songs and school songs.
In 2006, it was selected for the “100 Best Japanese Songs,” and in Sumida City, Tokyo—through which the Sumida River flows—it is also cherished as the “favorite song of the citizens.” It’s a classic tune that makes you want to sing it when spring arrives.
Brr, it's so cold.children’s song
A simple, short poem, yet a charming song that straightforwardly conveys the feeling of cold, just like a nursery rhyme.
In some regions, it’s said that the little boy sings lines like “came flying” or “came crying.” The fact that there are so many variations is one of the fun things about nursery rhymes, isn’t it?
[Nostalgic Children's Songs, Folk Songs, and Nursery Rhymes] The Heart of Japan Passed Down Through Song (21–30)
Summer MemoriesLyrics: Akiko Ema / Music: Yoshinao Nakata
A quintessential Japanese classic that paints a nostalgic summer scene.
Keinao Nakada’s gentle melody and Akiko Ema’s poetic lyrics leave a quiet afterglow in the listener’s heart.
Vivid depictions of nature—Oze shrouded in mist, the blooms of skunk cabbage, and a rhododendron-tinted sky at dusk—are especially striking.
First broadcast on an NHK radio program in 1949, it has been beloved by many ever since.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to feel the calm passage of time or indulge in fond memories of the past.