Lovely nursery rhymes, folk songs, and children's songs

[Tanabata Children's Songs] Fun hand-play songs and a nostalgic collection of traditional nursery rhymes and folk songs

Accompanist / Piano InstructorYuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerWakachan Araki
I started playing guitar in middle school and focused on band activities during my student years. I’ve been a hobbyist Vocaloid producer for over 15 years. After entering the workforce, I gained experience in various roles, including event sound engineering and videography/photography. As a writer, I’ve contributed introduction articles for music and manga websites, and in 2022 I had the opportunity to write the bonus liner notes for IA SUPER BEST. My specialties are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.

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!

Tanabata Children’s Songs: Fun Hand-Play Songs & Nostalgic Traditional Nursery Rhymes and Folk Songs (21–30)

Song of the StarsLyrics by Takao Ide / Music by Takeshi Shibuya

Hoshino Uta Lyrics by Takao Ide · Music by Takeshi Shibuya The Star Song

Hoshi no Uta Lyrics: Takao Ide / Music: Takeshi Shibuya

A song by Takao Ide and Takeshi Shibuya, first introduced on NHK’s children’s program “Okaasan to Issho.” It features a simple, beautiful melody and lyrics themed around stars shining in the night sky.

With a calm and gentle tone suited for children, it combines familiarity with educational value and is loved by a wide range of generations.

Since its release, it has long been cherished by many children and is considered a classic.

It is also a popular piece used in educational institutions and childcare facilities.

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Candle receiving

The “Give us candles♪” (Rōsoku-dase♪) of Hokkaido’s Tanabata (August 7)

Candle receiving

A song indispensable to Hokkaido’s Tanabata and a beloved seasonal tradition for children: “Rōsoku Morai.” Set to a simple melody, the lyrics—asking for candles and sweets—leave a strong impression.

Lines like “If you don’t give us any, we’ll scratch you!” add a touch of playful mischief that’s endearing.

“Rōsoku Morai” is said to have connections with Aomori’s Nebuta Festival as well.

Guided by this song, children parade through their neighborhood at night carrying lanterns, creating a quintessential summer evening scene.

It’s also interesting how it resembles Halloween’s trick-or-treat.

This folk song lets you feel the rich diversity of Japanese culture.

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Tanabata Children's Songs: Fun Hand-Play Songs & Nostalgic Nursery Rhymes and Folk Songs (31–40)

The Weaver Girl (Tanabata Goddess)children’s song

Warabeuta Selection No. 79: “Tanabata no Kamisan ga” by Theater ZERO Kawabatakei

Tanabata no Kamisan Warabeuta

This is the Tanabata children’s song from Hiroshima Prefecture, “Tanabata no Kamisan.” Its origins are said to be very old and trace back to China.

The lyrics are quite unique for a Tanabata song, and many people may be a little surprised.

That’s because it’s a “demon” (oni) play song: while singing, the oni dances, and the people in the circle hold hands and walk around the oni.

The oni also weaves in and out; along the way, it taps someone on the shoulder, and the person who’s tapped joins on behind the oni.

The circle gets smaller, but it’s a game of connecting to the oni.

Enjoy a fun Tanabata with your children through this connecting-play game.

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In conclusion

We introduced Tanabata children’s songs, folk songs, and nursery rhymes.

There were also many lovely songs that evoke Tanabata, such as those about “stars,” “constellations,” and “wishes.” Some songs can be enjoyed with hand-play or dance while singing, so please make good use of them in childcare settings or at home!