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

Daphne (winter daphne)DISH//

DISH// – Sweet Daphne [Official Video]

This song by DISH// features gentle vocals and a warm melody that deeply resonate.

Combining a march-inspired arrangement with choral elements, it centers on the feelings of exam-takers and gratitude toward family.

Released in November 2021, it was chosen as the theme song for the NTV drama “The Winner in February: The Classroom of Guaranteed Success.” Co-written by Takumi Kitamura and Hattori from Macaroni Empitsu, the track carries a message to encourage students preparing for exams.

It’s a song we hope will be heard not only by those studying hard every day, but by anyone facing challenges or difficulties—a true anthem of support.

The word “thank you” echoes beautifully throughout this wonderful piece.

Blue in the classroomHoshimachi Suisei

[MV] A Classroom in Blue / Suisei Hoshimachi (hololive × HoneyWorks) [#HoloHani Original]

It’s a refreshing youth anthem that resonates with the sparkle of adolescence and the warmth of friendship.

Suisei Hoshimachi’s clear, transparent vocals gently wrap around memories of high school days and the bonds with friends.

Included on the Hololive × HoneyWorks collaboration album “Horohani-gaoka High School,” released in February 2024, the song features striking lyrics that weave together the lingering glow of the school festival with the bittersweet mix of sadness and hope before graduation.

Parting with friends with whom you could share anything is a deep sorrow, but beyond that painful goodbye, wonderful new encounters are sure to color your life.

As you listen to this song, why not etch the best memories with your best friends deep in your heart and take a step toward the next stage?

You…Nishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'Kimi tte (short ver.)'

Kana Nishino is an artist who enjoys overwhelming popularity among junior high and high school girls.

She is a leading figure known for singing about girls’ feelings.

Every song she releases becomes well-known; people hum them and often sing them at karaoke.

While many of her songs are upbeat, her mellow ballads are also outstanding.

I’ll be by your side.Aoyama Teruma

Thelma Aoyama feat. Soulja – I’m by Your Side (TOUR “DIARY” Live Ver.)

Speaking of Thelma Aoyama, it has to be this song.

It’s still a hugely popular track.

Thelma Aoyama is an artist who sings many great songs, but in her private life she’s very funny.

She posts all kinds of videos on social media, and they’re a big hit with girls.

StargazeSixTONES

SixTONES – Stargaze [YouTube ver.]

This is a song by SixTONES that drew attention even before its release because it was written specifically for them by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS.

Released in 2025, the group’s 10th anniversary year, the track was chosen as the support song for Nippon TV’s 45th National High School Quiz Championship.

Its poetic lyrics and dramatic sound come together to make you feel as if you’re watching a scene from a coming-of-age film.

You can almost see friends joining hands and facing hardships head-on with hope in their hearts.

This piece gives a powerful push to anyone striving toward a goal, so it’s also recommended listening before an important exam or game.

HappinessAI

AI – Happiness

It’s the AI song that’s also familiar from commercials.

Just listening to it brings smiles to people’s faces.

Once you hear it, its catchy melody makes you want to hum along and puts you in a cheerful mood.

The AI song’s lyrics carry deep meaning, filled with words that resonate closely with people’s hearts.

tear(s)GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE

GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE / “Namida” Music Video (Short Version) – with lyrics

GENERATIONS are the junior group to EXILE, and their recognition has been rising lately—they’re very popular among young people.

GENERATIONS’ dance is razor-sharp, but their ballads are exquisite as well.

The harmonies created by vocalists Kazuhara and Katayose are outstanding.