![[Ekiden Theme Song] Masterpieces that mirror the act of running—cheering anthems that give you courage](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/qknDI1k39Ic/maxresdefault.webp)
[Ekiden Theme Song] Masterpieces that mirror the act of running—cheering anthems that give you courage
With the New Year comes one of the season’s hallmarks: ekiden relay broadcasts that keep many viewers glued to their TVs.
Watching the runners pour their hearts into passing the sash can’t help but move you.
Adding to the excitement are the theme songs that color these programs.
Just hearing them can bring memorable scenes rushing back, or overlap with the images of the runners and bring you to tears.
There are more songs etched into our memories alongside ekiden than you might expect.
In this article, we introduce theme songs used in ekiden broadcasts and tracks featured in commercials.
As you revisit those moments, we hope you’ll find a new favorite tune.
[Ekiden Theme Songs] Timeless Classics That Mirror the Runners—Cheer Anthems That Give Courage (1–10)
When it shinesHitsuji Bungaku
Hitsujibungaku is an alternative rock band that has built a one-of-a-kind world with a sound that combines delicacy and power.
This song, chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime The Heike Story, was released as a digital single in January 2022.
It was also featured as the theme song for Sapporo Beer’s Hakone Ekiden commercial.
While resonating with the impermanence at the heart of the story, the track sings of the will to believe in hope and move forward—an image that deeply overlaps with ekiden runners who single-mindedly pass the sash along.
The melody, which gives you the strength to face forward even while carrying pain and doubt, will gently yet firmly push the backs of those taking on a challenge.
When you need the courage to take a step in the face of adversity, give it a listen.
filamentOfisharu Higedan Dism
With the refreshing autumn breeze, you can feel the arrival of the ekiden season.
Featured on Official HIGE DANDism’s album “Editorial,” this song is well known as the theme for the Izumo All Japan University Selected Ekiden, held in Shimane Prefecture.
It also drew attention for being the first track co-created by drummer Masaki Matsuura and vocalist Satoshi Fujihara.
Its dramatic progression and beautiful melody mirror the unwavering determination of the runners passing the sash, sure to stir listeners’ hearts.
You can also sense the band’s affection for their roots in Shimane, making it a cherished piece among local fans.
If you’re running toward your dreams, this warm, encouraging anthem will gently stay by your side and give you courage—be sure to give it a listen.
Million MilesLittle Glee Monster
A powerful number that captures the stillness of a winter morning and the heat that rises from it! This song was written as the theme for Fuji TV’s “SUZUKI Sports Special: 2022 Mount Fuji Women’s Ekiden,” during the first winter after Little Glee Monster entered its new lineup.
Their greatest weapon—their rich, layered harmonies—mirrors the earnest spirit of an ekiden, where teammates pass the sash to one another, and it sets listeners’ hearts ablaze.
Featured as the closing track on the EP “Fanfare,” released in March 2023, this piece is a message song brimming with determination to forge the path ahead.
It’s perfect for those starting challenges in a new environment or teams striving toward a common goal.
Beyond the MomentChichibu Eri
Eri Chichibu is a composer who crosses the boundaries of jazz and screen music and is active on the world stage.
This piece, specially written as the broadcast theme for Nippon TV’s All-Japan University Women’s Ekiden, has vividly colored the coverage since the 38th race in October 2020.
Its uplifting melody, expressing the “now” of pushing beyond limits, overlaps with the single-minded dedication of the baton-passing runners and sets viewers’ hearts ablaze.
Because the race takes place in her hometown of Sendai, she is said to have imagined everything from the course to the athletes’ backgrounds while composing.
When you want to break out of your shell or head toward a goal with your teammates, listening to it will surely give you the courage to take a bold step forward!
RainbowPorunogurafiti
It’s an exhilarating cheer song by Porno Graffitti! Although it was the B-side to the single “Hitomi no Oku o Nozokasete,” released in February 2010, it’s beloved as the theme song for the Emperor’s Cup National Inter-Prefectural Men’s Ekiden.
The concept of likening the seven runners passing the sash to the seven colors of a rainbow is truly wonderful.
The lyrics resonate not only because they’re positive, but because they give you the courage to move forward step by step while facing your own weaknesses.
This song will surely encourage not only athletes dedicated to their sports, but everyone who battles daily pressures.
Listen to it at a crucial moment, and you’ll definitely feel strength welling up!
What kind of road is this road?Fujimaki Ryota
Many of you may remember it as the anthem that energized TBS’s ekiden broadcasts.
Sung by Ryota Fujimaki, this song is a powerful cheer anthem that captures the anxiety of walking an unknown path and the determination to take that first step anyway.
Its upbeat band sound feels great and perfectly syncs with the rhythm of runners passing the sash along.
It opens the album “Sunshine,” released in January 2023, and is also known for being used as the TBS ekiden theme, including the New Year Ekiden.
Crafted by Fujimaki himself—who played guitar and more—the song’s exhilarating sound gently yet powerfully pushes listeners forward.
Lost ManBUMP OF CHICKEN
This work comes with an anecdote that Motoharu Fujiwara, who wrote and composed the song, spent about nine months completing the lyrics.
His words quietly appeal to the dignity of moving forward even while burdened by failure and doubt.
It’s a masterpiece imbued with a strong will to tread the path we have now, even as we think about the future we didn’t choose.
Included on a double A-side single released in March 2003, it also graces the latter part of the classic album Yggdrasil, and was used as the CM song for “95th Hakone Ekiden: Beyond the Hakone Ekiden.” It’s sure to gently yet powerfully support those who are trying to take a new step amid uncertainty, and those who want to believe in themselves and keep going.