Dango Three Brothers

[NHK E-tele] Dango Three Brothers - Okaasan to Issho (Covered by UtaSuta) [Children’s song / Hand play / Dance]

A title and lyrics that play on the words “tango” and “dango.” Once you hear it, it sticks with you.

It was written specifically for NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho.” In fact, when tallying Oricon single sales from December 1989 to November 1999, it ranked number one.

Among the many hit songs that defined the 1990s music scene—from the Komuro Family to SMAP—it was the best-selling track of them all!

There’s no such thing as ghosts.

Japanese Children’s Song – Nursery Rhyme – There’s No Such Thing as Ghosts – Obake nante nai sa

Lots of kids are afraid of ghosts, aren’t they? Here’s a children’s song that even kids who don’t like spooky, horror-type things can enjoy singing.

It flat-out denies the existence of ghosts, but that hint of uneasiness and the way it tries to convince itself is kind of adorable, isn’t it? (lol) The idea of putting a big ghost in the refrigerator is so childlike and funny.

It might be a hit at karaoke after watching a horror movie or visiting a haunted spot.

strollAzumi Inoue

Sampo (My Neighbor Totoro) Sato no Uta Hey Let’s Go (Totoro)

It’s “Sanpo,” the theme song from Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro, beloved by people of all ages.

This song hardly needs any explanation.

Not only does everyone know it, but it’s also so fun to sing.

Try it together as a parent and child, marching your feet right where you are!

I wish it were so.

[Children’s song] I Wish It Were So

It’s a popular song even on NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho.” With a super fun rhythm and playful lyrics full of kids’ chaotic wishes and fantasies, it’s a delight.

Lots of kids—and adults too—love to daydream.

It’s a song that makes not only the singers but also the listeners smile.

You can’t help wanting to chime in with a “So true, so true!” It’s a cheerful tune that reminds you how wonderful a child’s imaginative dreams can be.

It’s a nursery song that both children and adults can enjoy singing.

soap bubble

Children’s song “Soap Bubbles” (lyrics by Ujo Noguchi, music by Shinpei Nakayama, arranged by Eiichi Yamada) — rare version including the second verse

It’s the song that made me want to sing every time I blew soap bubbles as a child.

I bet many people, while chasing the bubbles floating away, found themselves thinking, “Please don’t pop.” The lyrics are very beautiful, but this piece also carries a touch of the author’s sadness; I’ve heard it was written by likening a precious “person” to a soap bubble.

As expected of the master lyricist, Ujo Noguchi.

Little Errand Ant

[Children’s Song] The Little Errand Ant / Daisuke Yokoyama

It’s the children’s song “Otsukai Ari-san,” which I’m sure everyone is familiar with.

It was created in 1950 for NHK’s radio program “Time for Toddlers” and is a long-beloved song still sung today.

In the lyrics, the little ant runs errands while making mistakes, and it’s depicted in an adorably comical way.

The simple lyrics make it easy for young children to enjoy.

The melody is probably slow, so I think older adults can enjoy it too.

It’s a recommended song that can really liven things up—great for singing together with children and seniors while adding some simple dance moves.

A Little Bear in the Rain

A Rainy Little Bear (♪ It rained on the mountain ~) by Himawari / With Lyrics | June Children's Song [100 Best Japanese Songs]

“Amefuri Kumanoko” (The Little Bear in the Rain) was written by Masao Tsurumi in 1961 and composed by Akira Yuyama.

After it was broadcast on NHK’s “Uta no Ehon” in 1962, it became widely loved and was selected in 2007 as one of the 100 Best Songs of Japan.

With its straightforward lyrics and very gentle melody, it’s a children’s song that crosses generations—parents who heard it in their own childhood want to share it with their kids.

It’s the kind of song three generations—grandparents, parents, and grandchildren—can enjoy together at karaoke!