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

SUNHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – SUN (Official Video)

It’s a masterpiece with a bright, forward-looking melody and a refreshing rhythm that resonates pleasantly.

Released in May 2015 as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Kokoro ga Pokitto ne,” Gen Hoshino’s work is a warm track that incorporates elements of ’70s dance classics and disco.

The song also contains an homage to Michael Jackson, weaving a positive message into its joy-filled tone.

The music video, directed by Akira Sekine, features striking dance scenes choreographed by MIKIKO.

It’s the perfect encouragement song for anyone taking their first step in a new environment or hoping to start a new chapter with a bright outlook.

SCHOOL DAYSshiritsu ebisu chūgaku

[MV] Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku “School Days”

It’s a song that feels like a springtime gift.

It’s a March 2025 single by Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku, with lyrics and composition by Katsuhiko Sugiyama.

The beautiful melody portrays the expectations and anxieties of starting a new chapter, warm friendship, and a resolve toward the future.

The music video—featuring the members in pure white uniforms deepening their bonds in a forest—also leaves a strong impression.

I think it will resonate not only with students, but with anyone who needs the courage to leap into a new environment!

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.

rainbow-coloredayaka

Nijiiro – Ayaka (Full)

A healing song whose hopeful, courageous vocals and heartwarming melody brighten your morning mood.

The powerful yet gentle singing and the warm tones of the acoustic guitar evoke a resilient, forward-looking spirit that won’t yield to any hardship.

Released as Ayaka’s single in June 2014 and written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Hanako to Anne,” this piece is recommended for anyone who wants to start a new day with a positive mindset.

Set it as your alarm, and from the moment you wake up, you’ll feel ready to move forward at your own pace, one step at a time.

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

A massive hit by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE that delicately captures the brilliance and bitterness of youth.

It begins with a gentle melody and evolves into a powerful, grand sound—perfect for waking up in the morning.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime “Boukyaku Battery,” it won the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards.

With this award, the band achieved the unprecedented feat of winning two years in a row.

The lyrics, which support the feeling of moving forward step by step despite anxiety and doubt, will gently push the backs of all those greeting a new morning.

Step Up LOVEDAOKO × Okamura Yasuyuki

DAOKO × Yasuyuki Okamura “Step Up LOVE” MUSIC VIDEO

This “Step Up LOVE” is a recommended wake-up song for busy college students in love.

The lyrics about nurturing love are wonderful, and the fast-paced beat is perfect for mornings.

Why not give it a listen on important mornings for your romance—like on a date day or when you share a class with someone you’re interested in?

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My first kissHi-STANDARD

Hi-STANDARD × Korosuke My First Kiss Hajimete no Chuu

This is Hi-STANDARD’s punk-style cover of Anshin Papa’s classic song “Hajimete no Chu.” Its irresistibly cool sound will give you chills.

If you play this track in the morning to shake off your sleepiness, it’s sure to wake you right up.