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

Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Is Youth Embarrassing?' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Hazukashiika Seishun wa

A rousing youth anthem with a lively melody and exhilarating drive! This song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai was released in July 2024 as the theme for an ABEMA dating show.

It conveys the anxieties and longings of adolescence, as well as the radiance of those who give their all, through powerful vocals and a grand arrangement featuring a 40-piece orchestra.

Included on the album “Channel U,” it has been performed on numerous music programs since its premiere at Sukima Fes.

Perfect for school festivals, class performances, and club recitals—any moment when you pour your heart into something with friends.

It’s a song that gently supports young people who are doing their utmost to seize the “now-or-never” moments.

PlasmaYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Plazma

The world of Kenshi Yonezu woven from imaginative melodies and innovative electronic sounds.

Set against the backdrop of space, this work—depicting life’s choices and fateful encounters—was released in January 2025 as the theme song for the animated film “Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-.” It carries Yonezu’s signature delicate sensibility and straightforward passion, familiar from albums like “diorama” and “BOOTLEG.” Alongside its high-energy musicality, the lyrics powerfully convey the courage to step into new worlds and the drive to face the unknown, leaving a deep impression.

It’s a song I especially recommend to younger listeners who are determined to forge their own path.

CorrectRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Music Video]

A gentle anthem of support that blends the bittersweetness and hope of youth.

It portrays, with a warm gaze, the feelings of young people searching for answers of their own.

Its message—that there is no single right answer in life and it’s okay to move forward at your own pace—will surely touch everyone’s heart.

Released digitally in January 2024 by RADWIMPS, this song has often been sung at school graduation ceremonies and in scenes of remembrance.

When you feel anxious about the future or find yourself at a crossroads in life, this warm, comforting track will softly nudge you forward.

Please, take the courage from this song to help you step into a new beginning.

One Heartatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu

ATARASHII GAKKO! – One Heart (Official Music Video)

An irresistibly uplifting anthem brimming with energy and exhilaration.

“One Heart” by ATARASHII GAKKO! is an ambitious track written specifically for Bourbon’s Fettuccine Gummi commercial.

It blends group-sung vocals with empowering lyrics that boost self-esteem.

Perfect for those about to start a new school term or a new chapter in life, and for anyone who wants to move forward together with friends.

Burning LoveChe’Nelle

Che’Nelle – Burning Love

This is a single by Che’Nelle, released in 2013 and used as the campaign song for the energy drink “burn.” Its passionate message of encouragement is uplifting.

The driving, synth-filled sound helps boost concentration and seems perfect for studying.

Highly recommended.

StaRtMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – StaRt

With its upbeat, refreshing pop-rock sound, this track brims with energy for taking a new step forward.

Originally featured on Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s major-label debut mini-album “Variety” in July 2015, it gained attention as the song for Kao’s Merit commercial and as the theme for Fuji TV’s show “Super Addictive! Laugh-Out-Loud Character Parade.” The lyrics, filled with anticipation for a shining future, and the catchy melody make it perfect for waking up in the morning.

It’s a song that helps you feel positive—ideal for starting a new chapter or when you want to reset your mindset.

together; along with; bothWANIMA

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

A song whose exhilarating guitar sound and powerful message strike a chord.

WANIMA, a rock band based in Kumamoto, released it in August 2016 as the commercial song for NIVEA Kao’s “8×4.” Set to a driving, fast-paced melody, it expresses the strength to overcome adversity and gratitude for the encounters along the way, resulting in a track that brims with positivity.

Listening to it first thing in the morning is sure to energize you for the day ahead.

It’s a gentle, encouraging anthem that gives you a push at major turning points in life or when you’re about to take on a new challenge.