Nursery rhymes you’ll want to sing at karaoke: classic and popular songs everyone can enjoy together.

paprikaKenshi Yonezu

#3 [Ensemble by Middle and Senior Kindergarteners] “Paprika”

Written and composed by Kenshi Yonezu, it was released in 2018 by the elementary and middle school music unit Foorin.

The song and dance became a huge craze and a major hit.

The somewhat nostalgic melodic development, which evokes a touch of folk music, is striking, and the children’s straightforward singing was incredibly appealing.

It’s a bright, catchy piece that’s easy on children’s ears, so it’s also recommended for ensemble performances.

The open, exhilarating melody combined with the children’s energy creates a synergistic effect that will hopefully result in an ensemble that feels like a glimpse into the world of the future!

To the Sun in the Palm of Your Hand

Palms to the Sun / Papaya Suzuki & Friends (Smile for Japan Official) mov

It’s a popular children’s song with energetic lyrics and a lively tempo that makes it a hit at karaoke.

As in this video, if you sing it a bit faster, it seems like everyone can get even more excited together.

In fact, the lyrics were written by Takashi Yanase, the creator of the beloved Anpanman character.

You can really feel the sense of full-on energy coming through the words, right? In 2006, it was selected by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs for the “100 Best Japanese Songs,” a list of nursery rhymes, school songs, and popular songs they hope parents and children will continue singing for generations.

Let's go to the park.Lyrics and Music: Osamu Sakata

[Song♫] Let's Go to the Park / With Mother (Covered by UtaSta) [Animated PV]

This popular song from NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho” is characterized by a bright tone that evokes the arrival of spring and a lively, uplifting rhythm.

Created by Osamu Sakata, it features lyrics that convey the joy of playing outdoors and a warm worldview that can be enjoyed across generations, from babies to the elderly.

It was sung by Ayumi Shigemori and Kentaro Hayami in August 1999, and around the same time it was also included on Ikkokudō’s album “Niji no Mukou ni.” It’s a heartwarming piece you’ll want to hum with someone special during a sunny walk or playtime at the park—perfect for enjoying with family and friends in the fresh green season.

Hey, Kaba-kun!Lyrics by Itsuko Nakagawa / Music by Hirotaka Nakagawa

[Children’s Song] Hey, Mr. Hippopotamus

With its calm and gentle atmosphere, this song was released in April 2007 as a picture book with a CD, and together with illustrations by Hiroshi Abe, a former zookeeper at Asahiyama Zoo, it became a tune rooted in children’s daily lives.

Created by Hirotaka Nakagawa and Itsuko Nakagawa, the work also encourages children’s curiosity about animals through its focus on hippos.

It was featured on the TV program Hirake! Ponkikki and has long been loved by many children.

Its relaxed tempo and melody perfectly match the laid-back image of hippos, making it great for singing along with your child.

Why not hum it happily on a spring field trip or during a visit to the zoo?

A strawberry is a strawberry.Lyrics: Kiyomi Kotaki / Music: Taishi Fujita

Strawberries are Strawberries (Okaasan to Issho) / Kentaro Hayami & Ayumi Shigemori

This is a charming song with a bright, rhythmic, and fun melody paired with heartwarming lyrics.

It was broadcast in May 1997 as the “Song of the Month” on NHK’s Okaasan to Issho, with lyrics by Kiyomi Kotaki and music by Taishi Fujita.

The gently told story follows a protagonist who dreams of becoming a cake and, while chasing that dream, discovers their own true self—making it a song that enriches children’s imaginations.

Sung and beloved by Kentaro Hayami and Ayumi Shigemori, it was later carried on by Akihiro Sugita and Ryoko Tsumoda.

It is also included on the album NHK Okaasan to Issho Memorial Album and has been cherished by many children.

It’s perfect for humming during walks or outdoor play, and for singing together on spring field trips or fun outings.

When sung with family, it’s sure to become a wonderful memory that shares the joy of spring.

The Hungry Tummy SongLyrics by Hiroo Sakata / Music by Megumi Oonaka

♪ The Hungry Tummy Song (with actions) - ♪ Why does my tummy get hungry, I wonder? Does it get hungry when we have a fight, I wonder? ~

This is a delightful children’s song by Hiroo Sakata (lyrics) and Megumi Oonaka (music) that humorously portrays hunger.

With a simple, friendly melody and lyrics that gently capture everyday moments of children, it’s a work that’s sure to bring a smile.

First released in 1960, it was performed by the Froebel Boys’ Choir when it aired on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1962.

Loved for many years since, it was rebroadcast in July 2021.

It’s perfect for singing together as a family when you’re hungry or during snack time—smiles come naturally.

It’s also an ideal song for lunch during field trips or picnics.

Sing it together, and your mealtime will become an even more memorable, joyful moment.

Story FingerLyrics by: Yoshiko Kayama / Music by: Akira Yuyama

Mr. Story Finger (🎵 This finger is Papa~) by Himawari 🌻 with Lyrics [Children’s Song | One of Japan’s 100 Selected Songs]

This is a heartwarming children’s song that you can enjoy while doing hand play.

By imagining your fingers as cute family members, it unfolds like a conversation between characters, so it’s great fun to sing while moving your fingers together with your child! Created by Yoshiko Kayama and Akira Yuyama, the piece was first introduced in February 1962 on the NHK radio program “Toddler Time,” and has been included on many classic recordings, such as the album “Children’s Songs by Age (2) Ages 1–2.” Its simple lyrics and melody are charming and perfect for parent-child bonding.

Widely loved as a staple hand-play song that’s hugely popular in kindergartens and nursery schools, it has also been featured on NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho.” The bright, cheerful melody makes it easy to sing and is sure to bring a smile to your child’s face.