Nostalgic Japanese Songs

Umi -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.

SummerMid Summer Songs

Natsu no omoide – 夏の思い出

"Natsu ga kureba omoidasu" - Relive the fond memories of summer with 'Natsu no Omoide'. Discover its lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, reflecting on summer days.

SummerEarly Summer Songs

Mikan no hana saku oka – 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.

SummerEarly Summer Songs

Natsu wa kinu – 夏は来ぬ

"Unohana no niou kakine ni" - Celebrate the arrival of summer with "Summer is Not Coming". Learn the lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, and welcome the summer season with a melody that seems to point to light and prestigious ancient lyrics.

SummerEarly Summer Songs

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.

SummerEarly Summer Songs

Amefuri – あめふり

"Ame ame fure fure kaasan ga" - Enjoy the soothing rhythm of the song 'Amefuri'. Discover its lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, reflecting on rainy days.

SummerEarly Summer Songs

Tanabata sama

"Sasanoha sarasara nokibani yureru" Discover good old-fashioned Japan through lyrics and images: Roman readings, English translations, and reflections. Experience Tanabata and take a cultural journey through the melodies of "douyo-Shoka" (Children's Songs).

SummerEarly Summer Songs

Shabon dama – シャボン玉

"Shabon dama tonda" - Explore the timeless nursery rhyme 'Shabon Dama'. Discover its lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, capturing the ephemeral beauty and profound emotions behind the beloved Japanese song.

SummerEarly Summer Songs

Amefuri kumanoko – あめふりくまのこ

"Oyamani ame ga furimashita" - Experience the playful song 'Amefuri Kuma no Ko'. Learn its lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, about a little bear playing in the rain.

SummerEarly Summer 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

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

Amefuri otsukisan – 雨降りお月さん

"Amefuri otsukisan kumo no kage" - Experience the poetic beauty of 'Amefuri Otsukisan'. Learn its lyrics, Roman readings, and English translations, depicting a rainy night with a visible moon.

SummerEarly Summer Songs

Lyricist

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

LyricistAbout Japan

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

TAKI Rentarou – 滝廉太郎

TAKI Rentarou (1879-1903) was a Japanese composer who is considered one of the fathers of Japanese art music. He is best known for his songs, including "Koujou no Tsuki" (Moonlight on the Ruined Castle) and "Sakura Sakura."

ComposerAbout Japan