Get healthy with music! Uplifting Japanese songs

Let’s smileyonige

Waraou

This is a song that makes you feel happy, as if your luck might improve just by listening to it.

Since it was used as the CM song for au’s “Santaro Series,” which aired from December 2017, many of you have probably heard it.

This work is a yonige-style cheer song that combines the kindness of saying you don’t have to force a smile with the strength to keep looking forward.

Based on an American folk song, its familiar melody gently soaks into the heart.

When you’re feeling down or low on energy, it will quietly give you a nudge forward—a little charm to carry with you.

Love MySelfIS:SUE

Love MySelf

A refreshing cheer song that gently nudges people to take their first step toward a challenge.

IS:SUE’s brisk melodies and soft harmonies stay close to the listener’s heart.

Set for release in February 2025, this work powerfully sings about the importance of believing in yourself, even as it touches on feelings of anxiety.

Riding on a danceable, pop sound, it delivers a message of self-affirmation in down-to-earth words.

For those feeling uneasy before a new chapter or unsure about their choices, it will surely bring warm courage to their hearts.

Hi-FiveSuperfly

Superfly 『Hi-Five』Music Video

An empowering cheer song from Superfly that tells you to have more confidence in your one-of-a-kind self and live boldly! The powerful vocals, exhilarating sound, and punchy lyrics make you feel your self-esteem rising as you listen.

Released in April 2008, this track was used in an au LISMO commercial.

The lyrics gently stay by your side through the tough moments of chasing your dreams and give you courage.

How about listening to this song and stepping proudly into a new world?

Joyfulikimonogakari

Joyful / Ikimonogakari (Cover)

As a feel-good cheer song that lifts your spirits just by listening, this track by Ikimono-gakari is a standout.

It features a poppy, catchy melody and lyrics that emphasize the joy of cutting loose.

Released in September 2009 as part of a double A-side single, it was also used in Ezaki Glico’s Pocky commercials.

Yoshiki Mizuno aimed to showcase a new side of Ikimono-gakari through the songwriting.

Listen during your commute to keep a smile on your face all day, or sing it at karaoke to strengthen your bonds with friends.

It’s a heart-thumping refresh song beloved by listeners of all ages.

Go for it!!Urufuruzu

Ulfuls – Guts da ze!!

Released in December 1995, this is Ulfuls’ energetic breakout hit.

Tortoise Matsumoto’s powerful vocals and the rhythmic composition really resonate.

Arriving in the band’s seventh year, the track became their big break and grew so popular that many artists have covered it.

In the music video, Tortoise’s appearance in Ken Shimura’s “Bakatono-sama” costume left a strong impression.

It’s the perfect song for when you’re feeling down or need a boost in motivation.

By the time it ends, you’ll be ready to take a positive step forward—powered by pure “guts.”

RirurariruhaKimura Kaera

Kaela Kimura “Rirura Riruha” [short ver.]

This is an uplifting track whose positive message and light, lively melody will make your heart dance.

Kaela Kimura’s pure and energetic vocals give listeners courage.

Released in March 2005, the song was also used in a Vodafone (now SoftBank Mobile) commercial and became a major hit.

Boasting the highest sales of Kimura’s career, it’s said to be a song she created during a particularly busy time.

It’s recommended for moments when you want to forget the daily rush and look ahead, or when you’re ready to take a new step forward.

If you play it in the morning, it’s sure to kick-start an active day.

healthKREVA

health

When you suddenly feel like taking care of your body in the midst of everyday life, this is the KREVA track you should listen to.

It’s included on the EP “Sonzaikan,” released in August 2018, and is characterized by a message that’s almost disarmingly straightforward, just like the title suggests.

He raps over a heavy beat about a truth everyone feels deep down: “In the end, your body is your capital.” There’s also an anecdote that he completed the song in just one day, sparked by a phrase that came to him while on the move—proof of his sharp instincts.

Rather than offering forced encouragement, the song confronts you with reality, which paradoxically makes you sit up straight and think, “Alright, I’m going to take care of my body.” It’s perfect for those who’ve started worrying about their health check results or anyone who wants to live more healthfully.