Under the Big Chestnut Tree: A Classic Japanese Kids’ Song
Some songs are more than just melodies, they create a world where children can play, imagine, and feel connected. おおきな くりの きの したで (Ōkina Kuri no Ki no Shita de) is one such song. Its simple lyrics and gentle tune invite children to play, talk, and dream together under a big chestnut tree, making it a favorite in kindergartens and family sing-alongs across Japan.
Japanese Lyrics
おおきな くりの きの したで
あなたと わたし
なかよく あそびましょう
おおきな くりの きの したで
おおきな くりの きの したで
おはなし しましょう
みんなで わに なって
おおきな くりの きの したで
おおきな くりの きの したで
おおきな ゆめを
おおきく そだてましょう
おおきな くりの きの したで
Romaji (Latin Alphabet)
ookina kuri no ki no shita de
anata to watashi
nakayoku asobimashou
ookina kuri no ki no shita de
ookina kuri no ki no shita de
ohanashi shimashou
minna de wani natte
ookina kuri no ki no shita de
ookina kuri no ki no shita de
ookina yume o
ookiku sodatemashou
ookina kuri no ki no shita de
English Interpretation (Simple Translation)
Under the big chestnut tree
You and I
Let’s play together, as friends
Under the big chestnut tree
Under the big chestnut tree
Let’s have a talk
Let’s all form a circle
Under the big chestnut tree
Under the big chestnut tree
Let’s grow
Our big dreams together
Under the big chestnut tree
Why This Song Stands Out
This song is often used with hand motions or in group dances, where children hold hands and move in a circle—reinforcing the ideas of friendship, togetherness, and shared joy. It’s perfect for introducing young learners to natural vocabulary (kuri = chestnut, ki = tree), relational phrases, and emotional concepts like nakayoku (getting along well).
The repetition and structure make it easy for children to memorize, and the soft imagery fosters imagination.
Sing Along and Grow Together with Dinolingo
In Dinolingo’s Japanese for Kids program, songs like Ōkina Kuri no Ki no Shita de come to life through interactive videos, games, and storytelling. Children can follow native pronunciation, watch animations that match the song, and even participate with printable craft and dance activities.
Dinolingo is tailored for ages 2 to 14, and available on web, iOS, and Android platforms. It also offers a parent dashboard, offline printables, and age-specific lesson paths for pre-readers, early learners, and middle school students.
A Tree Full of Dreams
This song gently teaches children that under the shade of friendship, kindness, and shared dreams, anything can grow. Whether you’re in a classroom, learning at home, or playing outside, Ōkina Kuri no Ki no Shita de brings comfort, joy, and a little magic into every Japanese lesson.
