Moving songs recommended for high school students: classic and popular Japanese hits

contrailArai Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – Vapor Trail (Yumi Arai The Concert with Old Friends)

The story of a boy drawn on a white slope reflects Yumi Arai’s inner landscape from her youth.

With a clear, crystalline voice and beautiful piano lines, she gently sings of a longing for the heavens and a parting from the earthly world.

Inspired by feelings for a classmate from her elementary school days, the piece takes flight on a fragile yet refreshing melody, brimming with the radiance of life and hope for liberation.

Released in November 1973 as the title track of the album “Hikōki Gumo,” it drew renewed attention in 2013 as the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s “The Wind Rises.” It is a gem of a song that tenderly supports those who have experienced the loss of someone dear, as well as young people standing at a crossroads in life.

A Gentle BallAimer

Aimer “Gentle Ball” Lyrics/English/Indonesian | NHK “Minna no Uta” | 25th single “SCOPE”

Set at a starlit nighttime ball, this enchanting work spins a fantastical tale.

Aimer’s husky voice blends exquisitely with the classical waltz motif, vividly portraying mysterious scenes unfolding in the stillness of the night.

Beautiful like a fairy tale yet tinged with a certain wistfulness, its world seems to mirror the feelings of a girl wavering on the boundary between dreams and reality.

Included on the single “SCOPE,” released in February 2025, and broadcast around the same time on NHK’s Minna no Uta, this piece is made all the more magical by arrangements from Ryota Nakano and Yusuke Tanaka.

It’s a song that will stay close to your heart—whether you’re spending time with friends after school in an empty classroom or lost in thought while gazing up at the night sky.

Do you like it?E-girls

E-Girls / Do you like it?

The artist who’s perfect at both singing and dancing would be E-girls.

They’re hugely popular with both boys and girls.

People tend to think they mostly have intense songs, but the ballads sung by Reina Washio are amazing.

Among the ballads, “Do You Like Me?” expresses a girl’s cute feelings.

Our Starting LineHIPPY

Our Starting Line

This is a song by HIPPY that delivers a heartfelt message of encouragement! Created in collaboration with high school students in Hiroshima Prefecture, it has been selected as the official support song for the 2025 National High School Sports Festival.

The lyrics brim with the brilliance of youth and passion for sports, paired with a catchy, powerful pop melody.

Phrases like “You and I become one and create a miracle” are repeated, emphasizing the importance of chasing dreams together with your teammates.

It’s perfect for anyone feeling anxious about taking on new challenges.

Wrapped in HIPPY’s warm vocals, why not take a step forward in your own way?

Question 1Ao

ao – Q.1 (Official Video)

This is a song by ao that gently embraces wavering hearts and expectations.

It carries a message that turns the anxieties and hopes felt by high school students into hope.

Created in February 2023 as the theme song for Recruit’s “High School Ring 2023,” the piece portrays the resolve to take a step toward the future and the inner struggle of facing oneself.

The music video contrasts one’s social media persona with one’s inner self, speaking to the courage it takes to choose your own path and take that first step.

The various uncertainties experienced in high school can surely lead to great growth when you confront them and overcome them while facing yourself.

possibilitySambomasutā

Sambomaster “Possibility”

A coming-of-age rock anthem that will set high schoolers’ hearts on fire! This powerful cheer song from Sambomaster gives you the courage to believe in your potential and move forward.

Created as the theme song for the film “Biri Gyaru,” released in May 2015, it supports everyone striving toward their dreams.

Just like the lyric “the weak me is a thing of the past,” it portrays the growth of overcoming your former self.

When you hit a wall in club activities or studies, listen to it with your friends to recharge.

Sambomaster’s passionate message is sure to give you a push from behind!

cherry blossomKetsumeishi

Sakura – Ketsumeishi (Full)

Ketsumeishi is a hip-hop group, and I think they have many dedicated fans.

“Sakura” by Ketsumeishi is one of their well-known songs, and its music video—featuring Masato Hagiwara and Emi Suzuki—has attracted attention.

When it comes to spring-themed songs, I imagine many people would name Ketsumeishi’s “Sakura.”