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

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.

Wherever you areONE OK ROCK

Wherever You Are – ONE OK ROCK Full

This is a masterpiece by ONE OK ROCK, celebrated for its intricate musicality and emotional lyrics.

A gem of a love song that reflects feelings for a cherished person, its seamless blend of English and Japanese lyrics truly resonates.

Included on the album “Niche Syndrome,” the track was also featured in a 2015 NTT Docomo commercial, drawing widespread attention.

In both 2017 and 2018, it ranked No.

1 as the most-used song at weddings for two consecutive years.

It’s a perfect song to listen to when you want to look back on memories with someone special or on a special day.

Please give this heartwarming piece a listen—you’re sure to be moved.

As a personSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “As a Person” LIVE MV

It’s a song that candidly portrays human weakness and inner conflict while still singing about the strength to keep looking forward.

Included on the album “27,” released in June 2016, it was also chosen as the opening theme for a TV Tokyo drama.

SUPER BEAVER’s powerful rock sound and warm vocals brilliantly express a commitment to humanity and sincerity.

This is a track I especially want high school students struggling with friendships or romance to hear.

Even while feeling the difficulties of human relationships, it teaches the importance of continuing to trust and to love.

You can’t help but be moved by that person’s warmth.

Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster 'Someday These Tears Will' Short Ver.

This is a Little Glee Monster soccer cheer song that brings back memories of youth.

The lyrics, which sing about the importance of hard work and teammates, really fire you up.

It’s also been used as the support song for the High School Soccer Championship and is popular as an anthem that cheers on those striving toward their dreams.

Included on the album “Fanfare,” it also has live tour footage available.

Recommended for anyone who wants to work hard toward their dreams together with friends.

It’s the perfect track for making memories of your youth, so high school students in particular may find it especially moving.

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.

CorrectRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Music Video]

This is a moving song that portrays the confusion and growth of youth, as well as the shifting nature of friendship.

Released digitally in January 2024, it features a distinctive arrangement incorporating a student choir, making it a perfect track for graduation season.

First unveiled by RADWIMPS at the “18 Festival,” the song was born from a collaboration with the younger generation.

True to its title, the lyrics sing about the search for the “right answer” in life and the importance of finding your true self—messages that will resonate deeply with high school students approaching graduation.

It’s a song they’re sure to relate to and be moved by.

Be the soil that makes flowers bloom, rather than the flowers themselves.berii guddoman

Berry Goodman “Become the soil that makes flowers bloom, rather than the flowers themselves” Music Video (NHK ‘Minna no Uta’ December 2024–January 2025)

Even if you can’t be the protagonist, the fact that you’re giving your all makes you wonderful—this heartwarming number sings that message.

It’s a track by BENNY GOODMAN (Berry Goodman), released digitally in December 2024.

The song was written specifically for NHK’s “Minna no Uta.” Based on words from Tomoshige Yamashita, honorary manager of the Seiryo High School baseball team, it was created as an anthem to encourage those who keep striving, resonating deeply with many listeners.

It might be the perfect song to share when you want to lift someone’s spirits.

For high school students, it’s a track that truly hits home.