Heartwarming songs recommended for high school students

paper airplanesuis from Yorushika × Evan Call

suis from Yorushika × Evan Call “Paper Airplane” [Theme song for the anime ‘Dragonite and the Mailman’]

This is a grand message song by Yorushika’s suis and Evan Call, where the feelings conveyed through a letter are expressed with an orchestra and a clear, translucent vocal.

Its melody gently embraces both the importance and the difficulty of delivering words to someone, resonating deeply in the heart.

Released in February 2025, it was chosen as the theme song for the anime “Dragonite and the Mail Carrier,” which premiered around the same time.

Two versions were produced— a Japanese version by Ameko Kodama and an English version by Evan Call—carrying the power and potential of words across borders.

It’s recommended as a memorable finale song for school and cultural festivals, and for anyone holding dear feelings for someone special.

Goodbyekariyushi 58

Kariyushi58 “Sayonara”

This song conveys strength more than sorrow in its theme of a farewell where two people will never meet again.

It carries a sense of grit—the power to clench your teeth and move forward.

Perhaps saying “goodbye” is an act humans need in order to live.

That is the feeling I hear in this song.

Unable to become an adultkujira

Unable to become an adult

This work gently sings of the importance of embracing loneliness and ordinariness.

Through images of the stillness of a moonless night and scattering light into the darkness, its warm lyrics, which handle a fragile heart with care, resonate deeply.

Kujira centers themes of self-acceptance and growth, beautifully expressing young people’s emotions within a unique worldview.

This piece serves as the theme song for the February 2025 film “My Senpai Is a Boy: Rain, Then Clear,” showcasing the delicate musicality honed on the albums “Until I Can Love Life” and “Vegetable Drawer.” It’s a wonderful song that stays close to the subtle feelings of youth—days at a school festival spent with dear friends, the anxiety and confusion felt while searching for one’s true self.

futureKobukuro

Kobukuro “Mirai” film “orange” version

A heartwarming ballad dedicated to those who live life with all their might.

This gem of a song layers gentle compassion for others with wishes for the future.

Released in December 2015, it was written as the theme song for the film “orange” and was later used as a tie-in track for the anime series as well.

With Kobukuro’s signature powerful harmonies and a melody line that resonates deeply, this piece leaves a lasting impression.

Performed on a school festival stage, it will tenderly color the bonds with dear friends and the memories of student days.

budKobukuro

Kobukuro – Tsubomi

This song was written with Mr.

Kobuchi’s late mother in mind.

When it won the Japan Record Award, it became a hot topic after he said, “I felt like my late mother was singing along with me.” It’s also popular as a song for the bride’s letter and the bouquet presentation at weddings.

You can feel love in every line of the lyrics.

Blue BenchSasuke

Blue Bench / Sasuke

He sings about how he still loves his ex-girlfriend and regrets not expressing his feelings more when they were together.

The way it pierces the heart so directly makes it a song that truly represents a page of youth.

Start to shine and run forwardSambomasutā

Sambomaster / Starting to Shine and Run - MUSIC VIDEO

This is a renowned song that powerfully portrays a protagonist, burning with passion, dashing toward the future while pursuing their true self.

It resonates with the message that there’s no need to imitate anyone else, and that it’s important to let your own unique flower bloom.

The track is filled with courage and determination, urging listeners to take a step toward hope by overcoming the sorrow and pain they carry.

Released as Sambomaster’s single in August 2018, it was used as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “Cheer☆Dan.” As a song that supports the story of high school students striving toward their dreams, it deeply moved many viewers.

It’s a piece that strongly pushes the backs of those devoted to lessons and practice, and those facing hardships, giving them the courage to take a step forward.