Recommended exit songs for a sports day: a curated selection that perfectly suits a brisk, running exit!

RISING SUNEXILE

EXILE / Rising Sun -short version-

The perfect entrance and exit song for a school sports day—a major milestone for students—is “Rising Sun.” Released in 2011 by EXILE, a dance and vocal group known for their acrobatic performances, the track was also used as a charity song to support recovery efforts after the Great East Japan Earthquake.

It’s a dazzling electro-pop number that evokes a sense of “hope.” Their emotional yet refreshing vocals are sure to blow away the heat.

If you’re good at dancing, cheering while dancing is also highly recommended!

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mutō

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El CapitanJohn Philip Sousa

El Capitan / J.P. Sousa

This is a bold marching piece with a dazzling, buoyant melody that is highly appealing.

Originating from an operetta, it evokes a grand atmosphere that conveys the courage and determination of the protagonist, leader of a rebel army.

Premiered in 1896, it remains one of John Philip Sousa’s most popular works and is beloved as a staple for wind ensembles and military bands.

It also drew attention in Japan, having been selected as the required piece for the workplace division at the 4th All-Japan Band Competition in 1956.

It is perfect for scenes that call for a solemn ambiance, such as entrance marches at sports festivals or award ceremonies.

Combining strength and elegance, this work offers a bracing, uplifting experience that makes listeners sit up straight.

superstarKetsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “Superstar”

This song features a captivating blend of hip-hop and pop, filled with messages of positivity and encouragement.

It celebrates everyone’s innate talents and charms, emphasizing the importance of believing in one’s potential.

Released on November 4, 2020 as Ketsumeishi’s 33rd single, it was also selected as the theme song for the TV Asahi anime Crayon Shin-chan starting October 3 of the same year.

The music video, filmed entirely in India, visually expresses its brightness and uplifting message.

Perfect as a cheer song for school sports days and athletic festivals, this track energizes listeners and gently supports those striving toward their goals—truly an ideal anthem of encouragement.

Tokyo Olympic MarchKoseki Yūji

Tokyo Olympic March with Fanfare, 1964

In October 1964, when a stately march resounded through the National Stadium, the piece composed by Yuji Koseki became a pivotal work that colored the first Olympic Games ever held in Asia.

Its elegant yet powerful brass sound and vibrant rhythm not only enlivened the athletes’ entrance but also stood as a symbol to the world of Japan’s postwar recovery.

Brimming with brightness and splendor befitting a festival of peace and youth, the work offers a melody of hope that only a composer who had lived through war could express.

It is truly a piece you’d want to use for a sports day opening ceremony or entrance parade—an elevated, dignified march perfect for highlighting children’s big moment on stage.

Flash FalconGRe4N BOYZ

GRe4N BOYZ / Flashing Peregrine Falcon

A perfect GRe4N BOYZ track for a sports day.

This song was used as the opening theme for the anime “Shinkalion Change the World.” Its driving melody and uplifting lyrics make it an ideal exit song for athletes after their battles.

It’s an energetic number that both celebrates the participants’ hard work and achievements and evokes hope for the future.

Let’s give it a tryWANIMA

au Santaro TV commercial: “Let’s Try It” edition (60 seconds + making-of footage)

WANIMA has a lot of upbeat, high-energy songs that are perfect for sports days.

Among them, “Yatte Minayo” feels just right as background music for entrances, exits, and events.

Since it’s based on the English nursery rhyme “The Picnic” (Teddy Bears’ Picnic), even parents who don’t know the song might think, “I’ve heard this before!”

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utatane

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Don’t give upZARD

"Don't Give Up" Music Video

ZARD is a music unit that gained popularity with Izumi Sakai at its center, who sadly passed away suddenly in 2007.

Their 6th single, “Makenaide,” used as the ending theme for the TV drama ‘Shiratori Reiko de Gozaimasu!,’ is still beloved today as a classic motivational song.

Its straightforward message set to a catchy and refreshing melody can serve as a switch to reset your mindset for the next battle, even as you walk off after a competition.

It’s an exhilarating, high-energy tune with a pleasant sense of speed that’s loved across generations as one of ZARD’s signature songs.

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Hoshino Takashi

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