Recommended wake-up songs for high school students: classic and popular Japanese hits

Start to shine and run forwardSambomasutā

Sambomaster / Starting to Shine and Run - MUSIC VIDEO

When it comes to songs that make you want to dash headlong into the future, this work by Sambomaster is the one.

Released in August 2018, it was used as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “Cheer☆Dan.” It features the energetic rock sound unique to a three-piece band and lyrics that truly resonate.

The song conveys a wish for people to cherish their individuality.

Give it a listen when you need courage to step into a new environment, or when you hit a wall in club activities or studies.

Takashi Yamaguchi’s warm vocals are sure to give you a gentle push forward.

Full-Power BoySukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Zenryoku Shonen” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / Zenryoku Shonen Music Video

If we’re talking about pep songs for high schoolers sprinting through their youth, this one is a must.

It’s a track that has secured its place as a classic cheer song from Sukima Switch.

As the title suggests, it’s all about giving it your all, and when you listen to the lyrics, you can’t help but feel, “I can’t stay still—I’ve got to keep running!” The song itself is also up-tempo and bursting with a refreshing energy, so I think it’s perfect for a quick reset between study sessions!

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Hane Keisuke

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Connect!Misaka Saki

Saki Misaka – Connect! (Full ver.)

With powerful lyrics and an exhilarating melody, this song gives listeners a push forward.

It’s included on the album “Every day, Every night,” released in December 2019, and was also selected as the support song for the 98th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

Saki Misaka’s clear, transparent vocals gently embrace the passionate feelings of young people.

The lyrics, which sing of the importance of friendship and taking on challenges, will resonate with high school students working hard in club activities and for entrance exams.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to with friends who are giving it their all.

I hope everyone can feel the emotion that awaits beyond overcoming hardships.

pupilŌhara Sakurako

Sakurako Ohara “Hitomi” (Music Video Full ver.)

When it comes to songs that stand by the hearts of high school students, this has to be the one.

Released in March 2015, it was chosen as the support song for the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament and captured the hearts of many young people.

Its clear vocals and powerful lyrics lift up teenagers striving in entrance exams and club activities.

The lyrics, imbued with the resolve to “never give up until the very last second,” will give you courage when you feel like faltering in tests or competitions.

Portraying the journey of moving toward dreams while supporting one another, this piece is the perfect song for anyone living their youth to the fullest.

YELL ~Support~Kobukuro

YELL ~A Cheer~ / Kobukuro

Kobukuro’s songs use straightforward words that give you a pure push forward.

They make you feel like every day is a new departure and encourage you to finish each day properly.

They also sing about chasing dreams, so it’s a perfect track for high school students on their commute.