[Ekiden Theme Song] Masterpieces that mirror the act of running—cheering anthems that give you courage

When it shinesHitsuji Bungaku

Hitsujibungaku – When It Shines (Official Music Video) [TV Anime “The Heike Story” Opening Theme]

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.

Lost ManBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN "Lost Man"

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.

a special/celebratory occasionLittle Glee Monster

a special/celebratory occasion

An exhilarating cheer song that’s sure to stir your heart, overlapping with the image of runners desperately passing the sash! Sung by the vocal group Little Glee Monster, known for their powerful vocals, this track is included on their album “Ambitious,” released in March 2025.

Chosen as the theme song for the 5th National Co-Ed University Ekiden, it amplified the emotion of the heated race even further.

Their layers of bold harmonies are breathtaking, making you feel that even the hard days up to now were nourishment for a shining moment.

It’s a dependable song that gently gives you a push when you need the courage to take a step forward—before an important match or exam, when you want to blow away your anxiety.

filamentOfisharu Higedan Dism

Special Video 2025 Ver. for the Izumo Ekiden broadcast theme song “Filament” sung by Official HIGE DANDism <Fuji TV Official>

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.

Runner of the SpiritHisaishi Joe

Runner of the Spirit for Wind Ensemble / Joe Hisaishi

Many of you will instantly recognize that grand fanfare that pours out of the TV during New Year’s, right? It’s the famous piece composed by Joe Hisaishi that has graced the opening and ending of the Hakone Ekiden since the 85th race in January 2009.

Its symphonic resonance—evoking the rising excitement of the runners about to pass the sash and the drama after the finish—warms the heart before you know it.

In fact, this work is also known as Hisaishi’s first foray into wind ensemble composition.

Structured to express everything from the pre-start tension to the lingering echoes at the finish, it’s a perfect fit to inspire the students taking on this grueling race.

If you listen to it for your first run of the New Year or when you need courage at a crucial moment, it’s sure to stoke your fighting spirit.

RainbowPorunogurafiti

Rainbow

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

What kind of road is this road?

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.