Popular Ranking of Ministry of Education Shoka Songs [2025]
It seems that “Monbushō shōka” refers to the collective name for songs included in elementary school music textbooks compiled by the Ministry of Education from the Meiji era through the Showa era.
They’re all famous tunes that everyone has hummed at some point, and some people might be surprised to find, “Wait, this song is a Monbushō shōka too?”
Many of these pieces will probably feel fresh and new to those born in the Heisei era.
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Ministry of Education Shoka Popular Song Rankings [2025] (31–40)
The sound of insectsMonbushō Shōka (Ministry of Education Songs)36rank/position
First published in 1910 in the Elementary School Reader Songs and later selected in 2006 for the “100 Japanese Songs,” this is a Ministry of Education school song.
The piece portrays the sounds of insects heard on autumn nights as if they were a beautiful ensemble.
You know the pine crickets and bell crickets, but do you know which insect appears next? In fact, it was originally a katydid, but in 1932 it was changed to a cricket.
This revision was made because “kirigirisu” was once an old term that referred to crickets.
Even among older generations, you might find people split into the katydid camp and the cricket camp.
Talking about that while everyone sings together could make for a delightful time.
Snowball fightMonbushō Shōka (Ministry of Education Songs)37rank/position
This is a nursery song themed around the ever-popular traditional winter play: snowball fights.
It depicts children splitting into teams and throwing snow under a clear blue sky.
Because many lines repeat the same melody, it’s easy to memorize even for those who aren’t confident singers.
You’ll likely relate to the lyrics that capture that familiar moment when you suddenly find yourself getting seriously into the snowball fight.
It’s also recommended for February snow play, sports, and recreation.
Try singing it to a melody line that carries a touch of nostalgia.
My shoes are squeaking.Monbushō Shōka (Ministry of Education Songs)38rank/position
Since its birth in 1919 (Taisho 8), this Ministry of Education shoka—celebrating children’s innocent play and their endearing bond with nature—has been a warm, gently comforting work.
It portrays children holding hands and happily spending time together, evoking images of little birds and rabbits that soothe the listener’s heart.
Selected in 2007 for the “100 Best Japanese Songs,” it has continued to be loved by many.
It has been covered by numerous singers, including Satoko Yamano, Saori Yuki, and Shoko Yasuda.
How about humming it together with older adults in the warm spring sunlight? It will bring a bright, soothing moment filled with fond memories.