[2026] For cherished memories: A roundup of hype cheer songs for cultural and school festivals

winding roadNovelbright

Novelbright – Winding Road [Official Music Video]

An uplifting coming-of-age anthem that depicts the journey from boyhood to adulthood along the winding road of life, set to a sweeping melody.

The track brings out Novelbright’s appeal to the fullest, portraying the anxieties and inner conflicts of everyday life, as well as the strength to overcome them.

Yudai Takenaka’s expansive vocals and the invigorating sound unique to a rock band resonate deeply.

Released for streaming in January 2025, the song was chosen as the theme for the TV Tokyo drama “Courtroom Dragon,” and its music video—directed by Hiroshi Tamaki—also became a hot topic.

It’s the perfect song for those moments when you strive to achieve something together with friends, like in club activities, cultural festivals, or school festivals.

Opening DeclarationNovelbright

Novelbright – Opening Declaration [Official Music Video]

With its powerful guitar sound and catchy melody, this song grabs your heart.

The lyrics, filled with determination to charge toward one’s dreams and hope for the future, give listeners a supportive push.

Released in April 2021 as the title track of Novelbright’s major-label debut album “Kaimaku Sengen” (Opening Declaration), it was also chosen as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “Sukkiri” nationwide high school dance club support project.

It’s friendly and relatable for students—perfect for dancing at school festivals.

A track that will capture the hearts of everyone standing on the stage of youth and never let go.

C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK – C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h. [Official Music Video]

This song leaves a strong impression with a powerful message that feels like a snapshot from the pages of youth.

It embodies the courage to move toward the future and the resolve to cherish memories with friends, all delivered through ONE OK ROCK’s signature emotional vocals that resonate deeply.

Featured on the album Zankyo Reference, the track was released in October 2011 and skillfully fuses elements of metalcore and post-hardcore.

It was also chosen as the ending theme for the TV program “To the Top of the Earth: Futa Kuriki’s New Challenge,” captivating the hearts of many.

It’s a perfect choice for those who want to sing at cultural festivals, school festivals, or choir competitions.

Raise your voices together, and it will surely become an unforgettable memory.

Kimisidai TrainONE OK ROCK

Kimisidai Train

A song by ONE OK ROCK characterized by powerful sound and lyrics that resonate with the heart.

This track is included on the album “Zankyo Reference,” released in October 2011.

Although it wasn’t tied in with any films or TV dramas, it drew attention as a song symbolizing the band’s return to their roots.

It’s an encouraging anthem that sings about the futility of blaming yourself and the importance of moving forward beyond the past.

It’s perfect as a theme song for school cultural festivals, sure to give young people courage and hope.

When performing it on stage, synchronizing as a band will further enhance the song’s appeal.

FateOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Fate [Official Video]

“Shukumei” by Official HIGE DANDism has become a staple both as a youth anthem and a motivational song.

Released as a single in 2019, many of you may have heard it as the “ABC Summer High School Baseball Theme Song” that year.

With a blend of freshness and power, it’s a track that will surely fit any scene at a school festival.

It’s perfect not only as background music, but also for choir or wind ensemble performances.

A highly recommended number that sets hearts ablaze and colors a page of youth.

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utatane

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giftRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – Gift [Official Music Video]

Written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Anpan,” this track is pop music that poses universal questions under the theme of a journey to find the meaning of life.

With a warm, embracing melody and poetic lyrics that resonate, it depicts the small joys of everyday life and the courage to take on challenges.

Yojiro Noda and the other members of RADWIMPS completed the piece over several months in preparation for “Anpan,” which is scheduled to air from April 2025.

Brimming with vitality, the song’s message makes it perfect for events like school sports days and athletic meets—let children and adults alike enjoy a sense of unity with this track!

There’s always tomorrowRe:Japan

There's always tomorrow

Ari ga Aru sa (There’s Always Tomorrow) started airing in commercials in 2000 and became a huge hit.

Re:Japan’s version is a cover—the original was sung by Kyu Sakamoto in 1963.

Seeing the comedians sing so freely really lifts your spirits, doesn’t it? It’s great as background music to create a friendly atmosphere at events like school festivals, but I also think it’s a lot of fun for everyone to sing together on stage! All the hard work of preparation feels like it’ll blow away when you listen to this song.

Be sure to enjoy it together with everyone!

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KEI

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