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Recommended wake-up songs for college students: classic and popular Japanese hits

On the big exam day, on the days when you might earn those credits, or those tough first-period mornings…

Here are some songs to wake up to! Listen to these tracks in the morning, and you’ll definitely feel sharp! Be sure to add them to your playlist and give them a listen.

I hope this helps you out.

Recommended wake-up songs for college students: Classic and popular Japanese tracks (41–50)

Song of BeginningsOhashi Takuya

Takuya Ohashi – “Hajimari no Uta” Music Video: TAKUYA OHASHI – Hajimari no Uta Music Video
Song of BeginningsOhashi Takuya

Let us introduce a perfect springtime cheer-up song for starting a new chapter: a track released in February 2008 as the solo debut of Takuya Ohashi from Sukima Switch.

Its lyrics, brimming with hope for the future and encouraging you to move forward while valuing your true self, paired with warm acoustic sounds, strike a chord.

It’s truly a song that gently nudges you to take that new first step.

The track was used as the campaign song for major distance-learning company U-Can and reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

The music video features actress Aoi Yoshikura, poignantly portraying a young person setting out on a new path.

It’s a must-listen for new employees and anyone facing changes such as entering a new school or switching careers.

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

A massive hit by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE that delicately captures the brilliance and bitterness of youth.

It begins with a gentle melody and evolves into a powerful, grand sound—perfect for waking up in the morning.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime “Boukyaku Battery,” it won the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards.

With this award, the band achieved the unprecedented feat of winning two years in a row.

The lyrics, which support the feeling of moving forward step by step despite anxiety and doubt, will gently push the backs of all those greeting a new morning.

AM11:00HY

HY – 「AM11:00」 Live Music Video
AM11:00HY

One of HY’s signature songs, “AM11:00,” is perfect as a wake-up alarm! Its BPM is around 100—on the slower side—but still within the tempo range said to be good for waking up.

The biggest highlight is the beginning of the track: it starts with a soft synth intro, followed by a crisp riff, and then Hideyuki Shinzato’s refreshing vocals as the verse comes in—just right for the morning.

As the title suggests, it’s ideal for days off when you want to wake up slowly.

flying boatKing Gnu

King Gnu – Hikōtei (Seaplane)
flying boatKing Gnu

If you want to kick-start your morning by blasting a cool rock song, King Gnu’s “Hikoutei” is highly recommended.

King Gnu is a Japanese band, but their sound feels like Western music, so it’s sure to get you pumped from the start of the day! Set it as your alarm tone and you might find yourself waking up feeling refreshed.

InfernoMrs. GREEN APPLE

This is the perfect track for those who want to start moving with high energy after waking up refreshed.

With its fierce beat and seductive, distinctive vocals, this remarkable piece bursts with momentum and could be called a pinnacle of guitar rock.

It adds a touch more drama than usual, like turning your morning into a movie opening scene.

Bring back that wonderful morning once moreGōruden Bonbā

Golden Bomber, a visual kei air band that has gained popularity for their solid musicianship and live performances that always exceed expectations.

The track “Ano Subarashii Asa o Mou Ichido,” included on their 14th single “101st Curse,” was used as the theme song for the TV program Mezamashi Doyoubi from October 12, 2013 to March 29, 2014.

The lyrics depict the scene of another morning arriving and the start of an unchanging daily routine, even as one reminisces about time spent with a lover—evoking the image of someone unable to stop amid the busyness of everyday life.

It’s a catchy pop tune with a comfortable melody and ensemble that carries a touch of nostalgia.

SUNHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – SUN (Official Video)
SUNHoshino Gen

SUN, one of Gen Hoshino’s signature songs.

Beyond its perfectly paced tempo that helps you greet the morning feeling refreshed, his hallmark clear and honest vocals, paired with a light, catchy melody line, slip right in even when you’re wrestling with sleepiness.

It’s not a track that gradually builds to a big climax, but it strikes that just-right balance—lifting your mood without being too noisy.