[Children's Songs] Cute songs recommended for childcare. List of popular nursery rhymes.

In a dreamLyrics: Shinzo Higurashi / Music: Takeshi Shibuya

[Children’s Song] In a Dream

Tsuyoshi Shibuya, well known as a Japanese jazz pianist.

Since the 1980s, he has also contributed works as a composer to children’s programs such as NHK’s “Okaasan to Issho,” and this is one of those songs.

It’s easy to remember, yet it’s a wonderful piece sprinkled with stylish touches characteristic of jazz musicians.

On “Okaasan to Issho,” it was often sung by Brother Kentaro and Sister Ayumi.

I imagine some of you grew up listening to this song.

Light of Fireflies

Light of Fireflies

This is a Japanese children’s song based on the Scottish folk song “Auld Lang Syne.” It’s a classic tune that plays at school dismissal time.

Although it has a somewhat melancholy feel, its gentle melody is comforting and makes it perfect as a lullaby!

Mom’s lullabyMayuminu

Mayuminu / Mama’s Lullaby (from “Mama’s Lullaby”)

This is a lullaby themed around an elephant parent and child, set to a gentle melody.

In the first half, it softly tells a story like a read-aloud, then the intro begins and it moves into the singing part.

As a lullaby, its appeal lies in the very calm, warm melody that evokes the tender gaze of a mother watching over her child.

It’s a piece you can use to gently stroke the body or rock like a cradle in time with the relaxed tempo.

Like the elephant parent and child, it seems sure to lead to a happy, peaceful sleep.

red dragonflyLyrics by Rofū Miki / Music by Kōsaku Yamada

Akatonbo – Red Dragonfly | Sunset Glow, Red Dragonfly [Japanese Song / Shoka]

When it comes to Japanese evening songs, I think many people immediately think of Akatonbo (Red Dragonfly).

It’s a dusk song loved across generations and regions.

Listening to it brings back fond memories of childhood, when I felt I had to go home for dinner.

It’s a song we definitely want to keep passing down to our children.

Above all, its gentle melody and lyrics that unfold such rich imagery make it perfect as a lullaby.

It’s also great for nap time.

Potapon's LullabyTokyo Heidi

Potapon's Lullaby (Tokyo Heidi)

Potapon’s Lullaby is a lullaby created by Tokyo Heidi, a sister creator duo known for their illustrations and animations.

It features Potapon, a tiny flapjack octopus living under the sea, as the main character.

Above all, its gentle melody and the dreamy, spacious sound are captivating.

Listening to it is so soothing that even mothers might drift off before they know it, wrapping you in a tender, cradle-like embrace.

Ushiwakamaru

Ushiwakamaru | Today on the Gojo Bridge [Japanese Songs / Children's Songs]

When people hear “Ushiwakamaru,” they often think of the famous children’s song about his duel with Musashibō Benkei on the Gojō Bridge.

However, this song recounts the exploits of Ushiwakamaru—Minamoto no Yoshitsune—from his training on Mount Kurama all the way to the Battle of Dan-no-ura.

It’s a perfect children’s song for learning history!

Urashima Tarorainbow moon

Urashima Tarō Lyrics Included Children’s Song

Many old tales end with “they lived happily ever after,” but some people seem to dislike this story because it ends poorly.

This piece stays faithful to the content of the Urashima Taro legend.

It vividly depicts the glittering splendor of the Dragon Palace, so please be sure to let them listen to it!