Youthful songs recommended as theme songs and openings for cultural and school festivals
Music that makes school culture festivals even more special.
It can boost excitement as BGM for stage performances, as a theme song, or as an opening track.
In this article, we’ve picked recommended Japanese songs and J-pop perfect for culture festivals and school festivals.
From tracks that refresh your mood, to songs overflowing with youthfulness, to tunes that capture the momentum of a great start—there’s plenty to choose from! Create unforgettable memories with a colorful soundtrack to match.
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[Culture Festival / School Festival] Youthful songs recommended for theme songs and openings (131–140)
Endless JourneyMr.Children
A song that expresses, through music, a way of life that cherishes individuality, driven by the powerful message, “You don’t have to imitate anyone.” As one of Mr.Children’s signature works, it inspires the courage to overcome setbacks and doubts and to follow your own path.
Released in October 1998 as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Naguru Onna,” it became a hit, selling 516,000 copies in its first week.
Despite running over seven minutes, its appeal lies in an intricate arrangement featuring nine key changes and a grand sound built on a compelling guitar riff.
Even those just starting out with band performance should be able to present it confidently on a school festival stage by playing a simple arrangement together with friends.
Wherever you areONE OK ROCK
A ballad filled with gentle affection and vows.
The desire to always be by someone’s side and make them smile, along with the resolve to pledge eternal love, resonates deeply.
Though simply arranged around piano and acoustic guitar, Taka’s emotive vocals leave a strong impression.
Featured on the album “Niche Syndrome,” the song was used in 2015 as NTT Docomo’s commercial theme for the “Family” campaign, capturing the hearts of many.
It’s also highly popular as a wedding staple, taking first place in the ISUM Bridal Music Awards in both 2017 and 2018.
This is a perfect song to perform on stages at school cultural and campus festivals—events that can’t be created without bonds among friends and teachers.
Sora-buneTOKIO
TOKIO elevates a song written and composed by Miyuki Nakajima—imbued with a powerful message—into their own distinctive rock sound.
This gem of a track portrays a strong will and courage to chart one’s own course in life without handing the helm to others.
Released in August 2006 as their 35th single, it was used as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “My Boss My Hero.” It topped the Oricon singles chart and won the Lyrics Award at the 48th Japan Record Awards.
Widely embraced across generations, the song’s structure also makes it easy to perform on school festival stages.
With its dramatic progression and catchy melody line, it’s a piece that lets you fully savor the thrill of live performance.
Vermillionsumika
This is a refreshing, pop-tinged song by sumika that evokes the spring season, where anxiety and anticipation about new surroundings intermingle.
With clear, gentle vocals, it tenderly recounts how feelings from a time when spring wasn’t yet lovable gradually turned positive through experiences as a musician.
Released in advance from the March 2025 album “Vermillion’s” and chosen as the theme song for Duskin Co., Ltd.’s new TV commercial “Let’s Connect Our Feelings,” the track charms with lyrics that convey the warmth and joy of walking forward together with someone.
It would be perfect for a band set at a school festival, helping everyone share the resolve to face forward and move ahead.
Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa
A heartwarming message song that reminds you of the bonds with cherished friends.
It’s a track where a driving, high-energy rock sound—packed with Road of Major’s musical essence—beautifully harmonizes with straightforward lyrics.
Portraying encounters and partings, friendship, and hope for the future, the words continue to resonate deeply with many young people.
Released as an indie single in September 2002, it remained in the Oricon Top 10 for 19 consecutive weeks and achieved an astonishing total of 900,000 copies sold.
In 2009, it was also featured in a commercial for the Taiwan-market Mazda Mazda3, becoming a song loved across borders.
Its band-friendly arrangement makes it easy to perform, and it has the power to unite the audience during live shows.
Make up your mind!Sabasusutā
Saba Sister’s exhilarating rock number.
Its candid lyrics and powerful sound hit straight to the heart.
Featured on their first full album “Kakugo o Kimero!” released in March 2024, this track is a perfect fit for their major-label debut.
Centered on themes of youth, growth, and inner struggle, it boldly sings about having the resolve to choose your own path.
With its straightforward message and driving, high‑energy melody, it’s ideal for kicking off a school culture festival or campus event.
It’s a song everyone can sing along to and get excited about.
For creating special memories that color a page of your youth, why not choose this track?
flying getAKB48
For those who want to kick off the once-a-year festival on a high note, “Flying Get” is highly recommended.
Released in 2011, this song won the Grand Prix at the 53rd Japan Record Awards.
Its passionate rock sound rides a Latin-flavored rhythm.
This fast-paced party tune will instantly raise the voltage at your school or cultural festival.
Use it as BGM for stage performances or booths, and it’s sure to grab attention! Let this energetic pop song boost the sense of unity across the entire student body.
