Nostalgic Japanese Songs

100 Best Japanese Songs – 日本の歌百選

In 2006, the Agency for Cultural Affairs of Japan and the National PTA Council of Japan selected 101 songs of lyrical and beloved genres, including nursery rhymes, school songs, and popular songs, with the aim of encouraging families to sing and pass them down through generations. On this website, we primarily introduce nursery rhymes and school songs with accompanying videos, explanations, and details about places associated with them, serving as hints for journeys.

About Japan

Yuuyake koyake (1923) – 夕焼小焼

"Yuuyake koyake de higa kure te" - Experience the serene beauty of 'Yuyake Koyake'. Learn its lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, depicting the evening glow.

AutumnEarly Autumn Songs

Jyuugoya otsukisan (1920) – 十五夜お月さん

"Juugoya" is said to be "the night to appreciate the harvest" in Japan, and there is a custom to celebrate while looking at the moon since ancient times."Otsuki-san" is used when referring to the moon in a friendly way.

AutumnEarly Autumn Songs

Chiisai aki mitsuketa (1955) – ちいさい秋みつけた

"Darekasan ga darekasan ga darekasan ga mitsuketa" Discover the small signs of autumn with 'Chiisai Aki Mitsuketa'. Explore its lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, capturing the subtle changes of fall.

AutumnEarly Autumn Songs

Aka tombo (1927) – 赤とんぼ

"Yuuyake koyake no aka tombo" - Explore the nostalgic 'Akatombo'. Discover its lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, reflecting on red dragonflies and childhood memories.

AutumnMid Autumn Songs

Kakashi (1911) – かかし

"Yamada no naka no ippon ashi no kakashi" - Discover the deeper meaning behind the Japanese song "Kakashi." Explore its lyrics, Romanized readings, and English translations, unveiling the cultural and spiritual symbolism of the scarecrow in Japan’s agricultural heritage.

AutumnMid Autumn Songs

NOGUCHI Ujyou – 野口雨情

NOGUCHI Ujyou (1882-1945) was a renowned Japanese poet known for his contributions to children's songs. Despite personal and financial hardships, he created timeless works such as "Jūgoya Otsukisan," "Nanatsu no Ko," and "Shabon dama." His gentle language and emotional depth capture the beauty in everyday life, making his songs cherished pieces of Japan's cultural heritage.

Lyricist

YAMADA Kousaku – 山田耕筰

YAMADA Kousaku (1886-1965) was a pioneering Japanese composer and conductor who greatly influenced modern Japanese music. He founded Japan's first symphony orchestra and composed a wide range of works, including operas, songs, and children's music.

Composer

Furusato (1914) – ふるさと

"Usagi oishi kano yama" Experience the nostalgic 'Furusato'. Learn its lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, reflecting on one's hometown. This song is the evergreen that represents Japan.

Across the SeasonsOther Specials

Kisha poppo – 汽車ポッポ

"Kisha Kisha poppo poppo" Discover the joyful world of "Kisha Poppo"! Explore its cheerful tune and fascinating history as a children's song. Click to learn more!

Across the SeasonsOther Specials

Mura no kajiya – 村の鍛冶屋

Shibashi mo yasumanzu tsuchi utsu hibiki" Discover the hardworking 'Mura no Kajiya'. Learn its lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, depicting a village blacksmith.

Across the SeasonsOther Specials

Lyricist

Introduces wonderful Japanese nursery rhyme lyricists. Please have a look.*More lyricists will be introduced in the future.

About JapanLyricist

Umi (1941) -海 (Umi wa hiroi na)

"Umi wa hiroi na, ookii na Tsuki ga noboru shi, hi ga shizumu" Explore the vastness of the sea with the song 'Umi' (Umi wa Hiroi na). Learn its lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, celebrating the expanse of the ocean.

Mid Summer SongsSummer

Hotaru koi – ほたるこい

"Hoo hoo hotaru koi " Fantastic fireflies flitting about in the tranquil streamside of early summer. Discover the enchanting song "Fireflies Come. Enjoy the lyrics, Roman readings, English translations, and the world of the song that calls fireflies.

Early Summer SongsSummer

Mikan no hana saku oka (1946) – みかんの花咲く丘

"Mikan no hana ga saite iru" - Explore the fragrant 'Mikan no Hana Saku Oka'. Discover its lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, about a hill where mandarin orange flowers bloom.

Early Summer SongsSummer

Shizuka na kohan (1936) – 静かな湖畔

"Shizuka na kohan no mori no kage kara" - Discover the enchanting Japanese children's song born at Lake Nojiri in 1936. Explore its mysterious European origins, beloved cuckoo calls, and timeless appeal in Japanese summer camps. Complete with lyrics and English translation.

Mid Summer SongsSummer