Picture books are the ultimate communication tool for connecting with your baby, even before they start to speak. However, have you ever felt overwhelmed standing in front of the massive children’s section in a Japanese bookstore, wondering, “Which one is right for my child?”
For parents raising children in Japan who want to introduce high-quality Japanese picture books, there is a program you absolutely need to know. In this article, I will introduce how to use “Bookstart,” a municipal service where you can receive free picture books, along with my personal “Top 5 Essential Books for 0-Year-Olds.”
1. A Gift from Your Local City: What is “Bookstart”?
“Bookstart” is a municipal program that provides 0-year-olds with the joyful experience of opening a book, along with the book itself as a gift. As of the end of December 2025, 1,129 municipalities across Japan are participating in this activity.
By using this system, you can receive a “Bookstart Pack” for free, which includes carefully selected books for 0-year-olds and professional advice on reading to your baby.
Tips on How to Receive Your Pack
Distribution methods vary by municipality, but they generally fall into the following three patterns. Please check the rules for your specific area.
- City Office or Library: In some areas like Minato-ku, you apply at the library during designated times.
- By Mail: You receive a “Voucher” at your home and exchange it at a designated location.
- Health Check-ups: It is handed directly to you at the venue during the 3- or 4-month health check-up.
The fastest way is to search online for “[Your City/Ward Name] + Bookstart (ブックスタート)” to check the official information!
2. Three Points for Choosing Books Your Baby Will Love
Books that fascinate babies often share common features. Use these as a guide when choosing your first book.
- High Contrast: Clear colors like red, black, and white are easy for babies to recognize even while their vision is still developing.
- Onomatopoeia (Sound Words): Rhythmic, repetitive sounds like “Koro-koro” or “Wan-wan.”
- Durability and Safety: Cardboard (board books) or cloth books that are safe even if licked or chewed.
3. My Top 5 Recommended Japanese Picture Books
Based on my own experiences and those of my family, here are five masterpieces that never fail.
① “Daruma-san” Series (by Hiroshi Kagakui)
The side-to-side movements synchronized with the chant “Da-ru-ma-sa-n-ga…” always tickle a baby’s funny bone. You can enjoy swaying together with your baby.
② “Jaa Jaa Biri Biri” (by Noriko Matsui)
“Jaa jaa” for running water, “Biri biri” for tearing paper. This bestseller captures everyday sounds and is perfectly sized for carrying in your diaper bag. The vivid colors are captivating for even very young babies.
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③ “Shimashima Guruguru” (by Akio Kashiwara)
With high-contrast color schemes and “face” designs that babies love, this book is packed with visual stimulation to promote development. It’s the perfect first book.
④ “Moko Moko Moko” (by Shuntaro Tanikawa & Motonaga Sadamasa)
An artistic and slightly mysterious book from a poet and a painter. The abstract “sounds” and “shapes” stimulate a baby’s imagination beyond literal meaning.
⑤ “Gatan Goton Gatan Goton” (by Mizumaru Anzai)
The repetitive rhythm is soothing and easy to read even if you aren’t used to reading aloud. Highly recommended as part of a bedtime routine.
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4. Your Local “Library” is the Best Playground!
Once you get used to picture books, I highly recommend visiting your local library. Many have baby-friendly facilities and events.
- Children’s Corner: Most facilities have a space where you can take off your shoes and relax, making it a great weekend outing.
- Storytelling Events: Regularly held events are a great way to connect with the local community.
- Multilingual Support: Depending on the location, libraries may offer a wide selection of books in English and other languages, or even cloth books.
By creating a Library Card, anyone can borrow books for free. In many cases, you can use libraries not only in your area of residence but also in the area where you work or in neighboring municipalities, so be sure to check!
5. Summary
Time spent enjoying picture books with your baby will become an irreplaceable memory for your family. Why not start your life with books by making smart use of Japan’s wonderful “Bookstart” system?
Start by checking your local library’s website today!
