Recommended cheer-up songs for high school students: tracks that will motivate you to do your best on entrance exams and club activities when you listen to them.

rainbowAqua Timez

Aqua Timez “Niji” Music Video (Theme song for the drama Gokusen Season 3)

Aqua Timez’s “Niji” gently wraps a heart on the verge of breaking and gives it a powerful push forward.

Released in May 2008 as their sixth single, it became widely loved as the theme song for the drama Gokusen: The Third Series, starring Yukie Nakama.

The melody, which fuses sweeping strings with a powerful band sound, has a refreshing clarity that feels like your view opening up just by listening.

Its million certification for surpassing one million downloads also speaks to its long-lasting support.

When you feel lonely studying for exams or frustrated by results in your club activities, give this song a listen.

The straightforward message in the chorus will pour fresh energy into your anxious heart and help you keep going.

ultramarineYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Gunjou” Official Music Video

YOASOBI is a two-person music unit with a one-of-a-kind concept of turning novels into music, and they have continued to dominate the J-POP scene since their debut.

Their fifth digital-only single, “Gunjou,” based on the story text “Aoi wo Mikata ni” from Bourbon’s Alfort Mini Chocolate commercial, was also chosen as the theme song for Sukkiri’s nationwide high school dance club support project, “Dance One Project ’21.” Its message—teaching the importance of moving forward while facing your true feelings—may help lift the spirits of high school students weighed down by worries.

It’s a powerful number whose stunning choral work is sure to raise your excitement.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)GReeeeN

GReeeeN – Michi (Road/Path)

A classic GReeeeN song to listen to when you hit a wall with daily studies or club activities and feel like giving up.

Released in January 2007, it was their memorable debut single and was featured widely in the media, including as the opening theme for CDTV.

The lyrics convey a message of believing in yourself and moving forward no matter the difficulties, offering comfort and courage to listeners.

It’s loved by top athletes as well—pitcher Yu Darvish has said it supported him.

In 2017, it was used in a SUBARU commercial, drawing renewed attention a decade after its release.

When you feel uncertain about the path you’ve chosen, this is a cheer song that gently nudges you forward.

A Cheer Song Dedicated to YouHIPPY

[MUSIC VIDEO] A Cheer Song Dedicated to You / HIPPY

A popular song that has become a powerful anthem of encouragement.

It was included on the album “HomeBase ~Arigatou~,” released in March 2017.

Loved by many athletes—it even ranked No.

1 for the year in walk-up song rankings for pro baseball players.

The song carries a message for those chasing their dreams and gives you the courage to overcome setbacks.

HIPPY’s husky vocals resonate deeply.

A re-arranged version was released in 2023.

It’s a great pick not only for students working hard at club activities or studying for exams, but also for anyone ready to take on something new.

The more you listen, the more it fills you with the strength to look ahead—overflowing with that kind of appeal.

cheerMarushii

Marcy – Yell (Official Music Video)

A song released in February 2024 as the campaign track for the 55th anniversary of Shinken Zemi’s High School Course.

It was created by Marcy, a three-piece rock band from Fukuoka.

The lyrics encourage self-acceptance and a positive outlook, gently portraying the subtleties of the heart when facing challenges and hardships.

Listening to this track, you can feel a warming sense that you’re not alone and find the courage to take one step at a time toward tomorrow.

It’s perfect not only for high school students devoted to club activities and exam study, but also for anyone standing at a crossroads in life.

With Marcy’s signature relatable melodies and lyrics, it will surely stay close to your heart.

AnswerKafu

Kaf #58 “Answer” [Original MV]

A song sung by the virtual singer KAF that we hope you’ll listen to when you’re struggling with questions that have no right answer and feel like you might come to a halt.

The lyrics by Vocaloid producer Kanzaki Iori gently affirm the dignity of moving forward while carrying doubt and anxiety.

It aired as the ending theme for the TV anime Black Clover starting in April 2020 and was included on the EP Hana to Kaitou, released in July of the same year.

Her distinctive voice stays close to your heart and draws out the strength to keep going.

This work teaches us that continuing to search for answers isn’t wrong in itself, and it’s sure to resonate especially with students agonizing over their future paths and club members suffering because their results haven’t matched their efforts.

Decisive Battle SpiritCHiCO with HoneyWorks

Decisive Battle Spirit / CHiCO with HoneyWorks

High school life can be busy with studying and club activities, and there may be times when you feel at a loss.

In moments like that, CHiCO with HoneyWorks’ “Kessen Spirit” can be a source of encouragement.

Released in 2020, the song was also used as the ending theme for the anime “Haikyu!! TO THE TOP,” which aired the same year.

Its lyrics are filled with messages that fire you up and passionate feelings that push high school students forward.

Especially for students involved in sports, it can help turn anxious thoughts into strength.

If you’re looking for a song to cheer on your hard work, this one is highly recommended.