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

earnest desireSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “Ketsubou” MV

SUPER BEAVER’s deeply moving masterpiece that sings about the importance of human connections is included on their album “Ongaku,” released in February 2024.

The song gently conveys how an individual’s happiness is built with the support of many people and the warmth created by a chain of smiles.

The album “Ongaku” also features several tie-in tracks, including the theme song for the film Tokyo Revengers 2 and the anthem for the 103rd National High School Rugby Tournament.

It’s the perfect song for cheering on those practicing for sports days and field days, or for reminiscing about the memories of working up a sweat with your friends.

Kaiju no Hanabuta (Monster’s Flower Song)Vaundy

Monster’s Flower Song / Vaundy: MUSIC VIDEO

This is a song that reminds you of the innocent dreams of childhood.

The story, depicted through Vaundy’s unique worldview, resonates deeply alongside its energetic sound.

The protagonist’s attempt to reclaim a fading passion through the song of someone dear is striking, and it gives courage to those who listen.

Included on the May 2020 album “strobo,” the track was also featured in a Maruha Nichiro commercial, and after its performance at the 2022 Kouhaku Uta Gassen, it became beloved by many.

In 2023, it topped the annual karaoke rankings, and with its upbeat, live-ready feel, it’s the perfect song for anyone looking to get pumped up together at school events or class performances.

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.

Bring back that wonderful morning once moreGōruden Bonbā

Golden Bomber 'That Wonderful Morning Once Again' MV

Golden Bomber, a visual kei air band that has gained popularity for their solid musicianship and live performances that always exceed expectations.

The track “Ano Subarashii Asa o Mou Ichido,” included on their 14th single “101st Curse,” was used as the theme song for the TV program Mezamashi Doyoubi from October 12, 2013 to March 29, 2014.

The lyrics depict the scene of another morning arriving and the start of an unchanging daily routine, even as one reminisces about time spent with a lover—evoking the image of someone unable to stop amid the busyness of everyday life.

It’s a catchy pop tune with a comfortable melody and ensemble that carries a touch of nostalgia.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Song of BeginningsOhashi Takuya

Takuya Ohashi – “Hajimari no Uta” Music Video: TAKUYA OHASHI – Hajimari no Uta Music Video

Let us introduce a perfect springtime cheer-up song for starting a new chapter: a track released in February 2008 as the solo debut of Takuya Ohashi from Sukima Switch.

Its lyrics, brimming with hope for the future and encouraging you to move forward while valuing your true self, paired with warm acoustic sounds, strike a chord.

It’s truly a song that gently nudges you to take that new first step.

The track was used as the campaign song for major distance-learning company U-Can and reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

The music video features actress Aoi Yoshikura, poignantly portraying a young person setting out on a new path.

It’s a must-listen for new employees and anyone facing changes such as entering a new school or switching careers.

DREAMERIkuta Rira

DREAMER

A gently embracing song that captures the feelings of young people chasing their dreams was released by Lila Ikuta in March 2025.

This work conveys a strong will to stay true to a passion for music while facing one’s inner self and overcoming anxieties and conflicts about the future.

The lyrics, filled with Ikuta’s authentic feelings, resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in three formats as a track on the single CD Hyakka Ryoran, it gained attention as an insert song in the drama Paripi Komei.

It’s a perfect cheer song for friends striving toward their dreams on culture festival and school festival stages, and a reliable companion when you want to rally yourself.

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.