[Tanabata Children's Songs] Fun hand-play songs and a nostalgic collection of traditional nursery rhymes and folk songs
July 7 is Tanabata.
Every year, you see large bamboo branches beautifully decorated in various places, don’t you? Have you decided on your wish to write on a tanzaku yet? In this article, we introduce children’s songs, folk songs, and nursery rhymes perfect for Tanabata.
We’ve gathered pieces themed around Tanabata, starting with the classic “Tanabata-sama” that everyone knows.
There are also songs you can dance to at nursery and kindergarten recitals, as well as hand-play games to enjoy at Tanabata parties.
Use this as a reference and enjoy a fun time with your child!
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Tanabata Children’s Songs: Fun Hand-Play Songs & Nostalgic Traditional Nursery Rhymes and Folk Songs (21–30)
What shall we make with rock-paper-scissors? Tanabata version
Let’s try arranging a classic hand game! I’d like to introduce the Tanabata version of “What Can You Make with Rock, Scissors, Paper?” This idea is recommended for those who want to fully enjoy Tanabata, the once-a-year festival.
Many children are probably familiar with the hand game “What Can You Make with Rock, Scissors, Paper?” This time, let’s try a Tanabata-themed arrangement! The choreography and lyrics inspired by Tanabata are so cute.
Be sure to give it a try!
The stars are humming with joyLyrics by Sachiko Murata / Music by Koji Fujiie
Let me introduce a delightful song that’s a joy to sing: “Hoshi ga Runran.” When you think of Tanabata, many of you probably picture stars and the Milky Way, right? This charming song features stars, and its comfortable rhythm and tempo make it easy to sing! The lyrics are fantastical, opening up a dreamlike world—that’s the highlight.
With a beat that makes you want to dance, children can enjoy singing along, too.
It has a wonderful atmosphere that kids are sure to love, so give it a try!
Song of the ConstellationsTakashi Deguchi
Let me introduce “The Constellation Song,” a sing-and-learn piece.
Many of you may be looking to explain the meaning and origins of Tanabata to children as part of the festivities.
Orihime is Vega, the first-magnitude star in the Lyra constellation, and Hikoboshi is Altair, the first-magnitude star in the Aquila constellation.
Through “The Constellation Song,” you can convey that stars have various names and that there are different kinds of constellations! By setting the lyrics to a pleasant melody, children can learn while singing.
Give it a try and incorporate it!
I found the first starMonbushō Shōka (Ministry of Education Songs)
Let me introduce the Ministry of Education song “Ichibanboshi Mitsuketa” (“I Found the First Star”).
The Ministry of Education songs are a collective term for songs that were taught in Japan’s national schools, which correspond to today’s elementary schools.
How about singing the beloved classic “Ichibanboshi Mitsuketa”? Its simple melody and lyrics make it easy to sing and remember.
It’s a great choice to include in Tanabata gatherings or events as part of games and performances.
It also seems perfect for interactive play with children.
World of StarsHymn
Let’s sing it to the melody of the hymn “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”! Introducing “Hoshi no Sekai” (Starry World).
In connection with Tanabata, how about getting familiar with songs that feature stars? Set to an easy-to-learn melody, children will likely pick it up quickly.
Through the song, their interest in stars and the night sky can grow, and their engagement with Tanabata festivities may deepen as well.
Incorporating it before Tanabata crafts or during morning circle time can help everyone enjoy and appreciate the seasonal tradition more fully.
It’s a song you can sing in a gentle, calm atmosphere!
Tanabata FestivalPicture Book Songs
It’s the picture-book children’s song “Tanabata Festival.” The melody is a little melancholic, isn’t it? But that’s exactly why it evokes such a beautiful Tanabata scene—writing wishes on tanzaku strips and praying to the stars.
It seems this song is sung in kindergartens and nursery schools.
The lyrics are simple and short, so children can learn and sing them right away, making it perfect for group practice and even for use in performances like school plays!
Star FestivalLyrics by Sachiko Murata / Music by Masaharu Kikuchi
The Tanabata children’s song “Hoshi Matsuri”—many of you probably sang it in music class at elementary school and the like.
Its opening lyrics use star-themed onomatopoeia that are catchy and charming.
The contrast between the lively rhythm at the start and the more laid-back, smooth section makes it a song that feels great to sing.
Just a little humming and the phrases start looping in your head—an easy-to-remember, friendly piece themed around stars!