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

The end of the beginningTENSONG

TENSONG 'The End of the Beginning' [Official Music Video]

TENSONG’s music is filled with warmth that gently accompanies the hearts of high school students.

Released in January 2022, this song explores endings and beginnings, tenderly portraying the emotions felt at life’s turning points.

Takabō’s clear, translucent vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

While calm in tone, the song is a ballad that conveys a sense of strength.

It’s a perfect track for those reflecting on high school memories or experiencing farewells with loved ones.

This moving song gives you the courage to overcome painful experiences and take a new step forward.

horizonback number

back number – Horizon

This song captivates with a beautifully compelling melody and heartfelt lyrics that make you want to listen.

It was released on YouTube in August 2020 and became available for streaming in August 2021.

Back number created it as a cheer song for high school students whose Inter-High competitions were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

It topped the streaming charts for nine consecutive weeks and reached a total of 500 million streams in April 2024, also earning Diamond certification.

The song portrays the setbacks and challenges faced while chasing dreams and hopes, as well as the strength to overcome them, resonating especially with younger generations.

It’s a moving piece that invites listeners to reflect on memories of their youth.

proofflumpool

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

This is a heartwarming song themed around parting with friends and embarking on new journeys.

Released in September 2011, it was created as the required piece for the junior high school division of the NHK National School Music Competition that year.

It is also included on flumpool’s third original album, “experience.” The song was performed on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, where it captured the hearts of many.

With lyrics that sing of hope for the future and bonds between friends, it especially resonates with students.

It is a song that many facing changes such as graduation or advancing to a new school can deeply relate to.

While expressing the loneliness of parting with friends, it also conveys a mutual respect for each other’s dreams, making it a piece that offers comfort to listeners.

Unrequited lovemiwa

miwa 'Unrequited Love'

miwa is popular among junior high and high school students and is known for her cute singing voice.

Many of her songs are used as theme songs for TV dramas, and a lot of them are well-known hits.

Many people admire singing while playing the guitar like she does, and she has strong support among young people.

Recently, she has been in the spotlight for appearing in films, among other activities.

Sakura, You, and Ituki.

tuki. 'Sakura Kimi Watashi' Official Music Video

tuki.’s music stirs the hearts of high school students.

With lyrics themed around graduation and romance, it beautifully captures the fleeting nature of youth.

Released in January 2024, this song was also used as an insert track for an ABEMA dating reality show.

On YouTube, it has surpassed 10 million views in about 11 months, resonating with many listeners.

The cherry blossom–themed lyrics are especially striking, conveying the bittersweet feeling of farewells that come with the arrival of spring.

It’s recommended for those who want to reminisce about their high school days or who are facing complex emotions before parting with someone important.

A truly moving song.

treasurewacci

wacci “Treasure” (Lyric Video)

Wacci’s songs that resonate with high school students are in the spotlight with the album “Nichijou Dramatic.” Warm melodies and lyrics that capture precious moments in everyday life are its hallmarks.

Recorded in August 2017, the work expresses human connections and feelings of gratitude, gently enveloping listeners’ hearts.

It also drew attention when speed skater Miho Takagi used one of the tracks as her go-to song during the PyeongChang Olympics.

It’s a must-listen for high schoolers navigating a sensitive time of life, from friendship to romance.

The heartfelt lyrics are sure to strike a chord with you.

Youth and a momentmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Youth and a Moment” MV

This song, which portrays the transience and beauty of youth, is beloved by many fans as one of Macaroni Empitsu’s signature works.

Released as a digital single in March 2019, it was also included on the album “season,” released that September.

Written specifically for a McDonald’s commercial, the track was also used as the opening theme for a TV drama, gaining popularity across a wide audience.

Featuring lyrics that delicately capture young people’s emotions and a driving, exhilarating melody, it emphasizes the importance of valuing the “boredom” and the “seemingly wasted moments” of adolescence.

It’s a song we especially recommend to high school students—prepare to be moved.