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

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.

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.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)GReeeeN

GReeeeN – Michi (Road/Path)

A classic GReeeeN song to listen to when you hit a wall with daily studies or club activities and feel like giving up.

Released in January 2007, it was their memorable debut single and was featured widely in the media, including as the opening theme for CDTV.

The lyrics convey a message of believing in yourself and moving forward no matter the difficulties, offering comfort and courage to listeners.

It’s loved by top athletes as well—pitcher Yu Darvish has said it supported him.

In 2017, it was used in a SUBARU commercial, drawing renewed attention a decade after its release.

When you feel uncertain about the path you’ve chosen, this is a cheer song that gently nudges you forward.

MagicMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE「Magic」Official Music Video

A refreshing pop tune by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE that works like a little spell to change your everyday mood.

Released in June 2023, it was written specifically for a Coca-Cola commercial and serves as a key track at the start of the album ANTENNA.

It brightened many people’s daily lives, reaching No.

3 on the Billboard JAPAN Hot 100 and surpassing 300 million streams.

With its brisk beat and liberating chorus, just listening can fill you with positive energy.

The lyrics, which encourage you while accepting that things don’t always go smoothly, are likely to be a strong ally for high school students facing hurdles in club activities or exam study.

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.

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.

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.