Collection of winter nursery rhymes, folk songs, and children's songs. Includes fun winter hand-play songs too.
Do you like winter?
Winter is very cold, but you can enjoy the beautiful silvery world created by pure white snow and feel the special warmth unique to winter—like hot pot dishes and igloos.
There are so many ways to have fun that you can only experience in winter.
Winter also brings lots of fun events, such as Christmas and New Year’s!
Children are probably looking forward to making snowmen, having snowball fights, and enjoying Christmas presents and cake.
In this article, we’ll introduce nursery rhymes, folk songs, traditional children’s songs, and hand-play songs with various winter themes.
There are many songs that can turn a winter that’s just cold into wonderful memories, so be sure to give them a listen!
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Collection of winter children’s songs, folk songs, and nursery rhymes. Fun winter hand-play songs too (21–30)
Jingle BellsComposer: James Lord Pierpont
When it comes to quintessential songs played around the world during the Christmas season, isn’t “Jingle Bells” the one that comes to mind? The song was composed in 1857 by James Lord Pierpont, a minister and the uncle of the famous financier John Morgan.
Its original title was “One Horse Open Sleigh.” He is said to have written it for his own church, but it became so popular that it spread throughout the United States.
The first Japanese translation of the lyrics appeared in 1941, and many more versions have been created since.
The Song of KonkonshyanLyrics by: Yoshiko Kayama / Music by: Akira Yuyama
A fun and adorable children’s song perfect for the cold winter has arrived! This piece sings about animals wearing masks that match their faces and sneezing “kon-kon kshun.” The playful lyrics by Yoshiko Kayama and the friendly melody by Akira Yuyama blend beautifully.
Since its release in 1961, it has been beloved for many years in kindergartens and nursery schools.
It’s a wonderful song that can help change the minds of kids who don’t like masks in a positive way.
You can also do hand motions and pretend to be the animals while singing, making it ideal for indoor play on chilly days.
Let’s all sing together and enjoy a healthy winter!
New Year (Japanese New Year)Lyrics by Kume Azuma / Music by Rentarō Taki
A children’s song that every Japanese person knows and a quintessential tune for the New Year.
It was composed by Rentarō Taki, a musician of the Meiji era.
The first verse features boys’ pastimes like kites and spinning tops, while the second highlights girls’ games such as mari balls and hagoita, expressing how children look forward to the New Year.
Its use of the uniquely Japanese “yonanuki major scale,” which omits fa and ti, also adds a distinctly Japanese sense of nostalgia.
Snow FestivalComposed by: Minami Ranbou
Snow Festival, broadcast on NHK’s Minna no Uta in 1984.
The lyrics and music were written by Minami Ranbo, who was also active as an actor.
The piece features a grand, expansive sound and depicts the splendor of a festive scene.
The lyrics, which celebrate a uniquely Japanese winter event, convey the lively energy of children.
It’s a song whose passionate melody seems strong enough to blow away the winter cold.
Please listen to this children’s song that portrays people eagerly awaiting the warm spring sunshine.
Winter MarchComposer: Nobuyoshi Koshibe
Fumiaki Koshiji composed “Winter March,” which was broadcast on NHK’s Minna no Uta.
As you’d expect from a march, it’s a very cheerful, bright song with a great rhythm.
Winter’s cold can make you reluctant to go outside, but listening to this track might just make you want to go out and play!
bean-throwing (Mamemaki)
When it comes to Setsubun, many people probably think of this song.
“Mame-maki” (Bean Throwing) was included in a book published in 1933 (Showa 8) called “Ehon Shoka, Volume 1: Winter.” You can almost hear the pitter-patter of the beans and picture the ogres sneaking away.
It gives off a warm, charming feeling, doesn’t it? Setsubun is a traditional event to pray for good health and safety.
Even those who don’t usually take part might find themselves wanting to chant “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” and throw beans after listening to this song.
I turned into Santa
This is a hand game where you use five fingers to imitate Santa Claus’s face.
The original melody comes from “Ten Little Indians,” a song loved in English-speaking countries.
As one, two, and more fingers are added, it’s exciting to see what shape they’ll become next.
It’s also great for practicing counting, so it doubles as a brain workout! Enjoy playing it together with everyone!