Tear-jerking songs recommended for high school students: classic and popular Japanese hits

SCHOOL DAYSshiritsu ebisu chūgaku

[MV] Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku “School Days”

It’s a song that feels like a springtime gift.

It’s a March 2025 single by Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku, with lyrics and composition by Katsuhiko Sugiyama.

The beautiful melody portrays the expectations and anxieties of starting a new chapter, warm friendship, and a resolve toward the future.

The music video—featuring the members in pure white uniforms deepening their bonds in a forest—also leaves a strong impression.

I think it will resonate not only with students, but with anyone who needs the courage to leap into a new environment!

End creditstenkousei

Transfer Student – “End Roll” Music Video

This is a signature song by Natsue Mizumoto’s solo project, Tenko-sei, which went on hiatus in 2013.

Natsue Mizumoto’s vocals have a captivating transparency—so delicate they seem as if they might vanish.

I think many people are drawn to the fragile, almost breakable instability that defines Tenko-sei.

I want to take only you away just like this.DEEN

DEEN 'I Want to Steal You Away Just Like This (DEEN The Best DX)' Music Video

A heartrending love song cherished across generations.

It’s a love I thought I’d forgotten, yet the loneliness rises vividly within me.

There aren’t many lyrics that capture the nature of love as powerfully as this universal expression of longing.

After-schoolDaisycall

After School / Daisycall (Official Music Video)

This song captures the bittersweetness of youth and the emotions of love.

Featured on Daisycall’s first EP, “After School,” it was released in April 2023.

Its driving melody and energetic, sing-along-ready lyrics leave a strong impression.

The words evoke memories of school days and a nostalgia for lost time, resonating with many listeners.

It’s a popular track at live shows for the way it brings performers and audience together, and it’s been a hot topic among fans of youth punk.

Highly recommended for high school students and anyone who feels nostalgic about their student days.

Loved oneFOMARE

FOMARE “The One I Love” Official Music Video

This song sings about the irreplaceable everyday moments and feelings for a loved one.

It features FOMARE’s distinctive, powerful vocals and emotionally resonant lyrics, making it a memorable track.

Released in 2022, it was used as the spring commercial song for Universal Studios Japan that same year.

Included on the album “midori,” it is one of FOMARE’s signature songs, beloved by many fans.

The track gives listeners the courage to look forward and keep walking while holding onto nostalgia for the everyday life we’ve lost and feelings for someone dear.

For high school students, it may be a song that stays close during graduation and the season of farewells.

You’ll surely relate to it and be moved.

First loveFlower

Flower 'First Love'

Flower is perfect at both dancing and singing.

The sole vocalist, Reina Washio, has a singing voice that’s popular with people of all genders.

“First Love” is a song that captures the feeling of autumn while portraying a girl’s unrequited love.

It’s a track that feels bittersweet, yet somehow fills you with courage.

NAOHY

SOLIDEMO / NAO（HY cover）

HY is often sung at karaoke.

Among their songs, ‘NAO’ is about unrequited love and conveys a deep sense of heartache.

I think it’s a song that resonates with people going through the pain of unrequited love.

Ballads sung by Nakasone are exceptional.