Moving 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!

Gazing up, the sky is blueHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata / Aogeba Aozora Music Video

This work beautifully portrays graduation as a milestone in life.

Motohiro Hata’s clear, translucent voice captures both the sadness of parting and the hope of a new beginning in full.

Released in March 2019, it garnered attention as the theme song for a SoftBank TV commercial.

While cherishing past memories, this piece gives you the courage to take a step toward the future.

It’s a song I hope those embarking on a new chapter will listen to as spring arrives.

Its heartfelt melody and lyrics will surely give you a gentle push forward.

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.”