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

lamplightYuga

Yuga – Tomoshibi (Official Music Video) / Theme song for the TBS Friday drama “My Wife Is a Elementary School Student.” Sea of Light by Yuga

This song was written as the theme for the TBS Friday drama “Tsuma, Shogakusei ni Naru” (My Wife Is a Little Girl Now).

It delivers, on a gentle melody, the message that no one is ever truly alone—we live alongside the feelings of someone precious to us.

Many listeners will likely see themselves in the lyrics, which say that the presence of a loved one is a sure light illuminating the night road.

Please give it a listen when you want to once again feel the presence of someone important to you.

TOKYO GIRLPerfume

[Official Music Video] Perfume 「TOKYO GIRL」

Perfume is a group that is active and popular worldwide.

TOKYO GIRL is also the theme song for the drama Tokyo Tarareba Musume, so many women who watched the show are familiar with it, and it’s a song that gives you energy.

The dance is cute, and many people probably try to imitate it.

pupilŌhara Sakurako

Sakurako Ohara – Hitomi (Music Video Short ver.)

Sakurako Ohara is a standout talent selected from the general public through an audition, and she has been in the spotlight since her debut.

The song “Hitomi,” sung by Sakurako Ohara, has been chosen as the support song for the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament and is very popular among young people.

First loveFlower

Flower 'First Love'

Flower is perfect at both dancing and singing.

The sole vocalist, Reina Washio, has a singing voice that’s popular with people of all genders.

“First Love” is a song that captures the feeling of autumn while portraying a girl’s unrequited love.

It’s a track that feels bittersweet, yet somehow fills you with courage.

Memories of Tomorrowarashi

ARASHI – Memory of Tomorrow [Official Music Video]

When it comes to Johnny’s, I think many people would say Arashi.

Among their many well-known songs, I’d like to introduce “Ashita no Kioku,” the theme song for a drama starring Sho Sakurai.

I believe it’s a song that gives courage to people who work hard every day.

365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB48

Paper Airplane of 365 Days – AKB48 (Full)

AKB48 are the top idols.

It’s no exaggeration to say that everyone in the country knows them.

Among their songs, “365 Nichi no Kamihikōki” (“365-Day Paper Airplane”) is especially beloved.

The lyrics carry deep meaning and are truly moving.

It’s also a popular choice at karaoke.

YELLikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari “YELL” Music Video

An emotionally moving number by Ikimono-gakari, cherished as a staple graduation song.

Its lyrics don’t treat parting as something merely sad, but as a new beginning toward each person’s dreams—words that are sure to bring tears to your eyes.

Even while burdened by anxiety and inner conflict about the future—like having wings but being unable to fly—the image of confronting one’s own weakness and moving forward into tomorrow stirs everyone’s heart.

Released in September 2009 as a double A-side single alongside the bright, poppy “Joyful,” the song was also selected as a required piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

Though gentle in tone, this powerful track resonates deeply, encouraging those taking a new step forward with the bonds of their friends in their hearts.