[2026] Recommended Entrance Ceremony Songs for Junior High Students: Popular J-POP Roundup

StaRtMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – StaRt

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s song “StaRt” is perfect for a fresh beginning, swelling with hope for a bright future.

Released in 2015, it’s an ideal fit for junior high school students taking their first step into a new world.

Listening to lyrics that convey a message like “If you take action, the future will get better” will make you feel ready to approach a new environment proactively.

Motoki Omori’s refreshing vocals and the exhilarating pop melody are captivating, blowing away anxiety and giving you the courage to step into what’s next.

The place of beginningyuzu

Place of the Beginning - Yuzu

This is Yuzu’s “Hajimari no Basho,” also famous as the first theme song for the TV show Ainori.

The lyrics carry messages that students starting a new chapter can’t help but relate to, making it a perfect song for school entrance season.

Listen to it and blow away your anxieties.

RPGSEKAI NO OWARI

SEKAI NO OWARI「RPG」

This is SEKAI NO OWARI’s fourth major single, released in 2013.

When you start junior high school, you might not know anyone, or you may find it hard to build good relationships with friends or upperclassmen.

At times like that, listening to this song—which tells you that you’re not alone—should help put your mind at ease.

stepsGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Ayumi

GReeeeN quickly climbed the stairs to stardom with “Kiseki.” Their song “Ayumi” is memorable for its forward-looking lyrics and moving, passionate melody.

Many of you have probably heard it.

Junior high school students often face anxieties as entrance exams approach, and this song can be a source of support during those times.

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Ryo

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Mela!Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Mela!' Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Mela!

This song powerfully portrays the protagonist’s determination to carve out a new path while staying true to themselves.

Even as they face challenges, their courage to help others and their desire to become a hero come through vividly alongside energetic music.

Included on Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s album “SINGALONG,” released in June 2020, the track stands out for its strong melody and an upbeat style that blends pop and rock.

It was featured in the commercial song for Dariya’s “Palty Coloring,” and was also used in a JRA (Japan Racing Association) commercial in 2025.

It’s a song that gives junior high school students stepping into new environments the courage to believe in their potential and the energy to look ahead.

Let’s give it a tryWANIMA

au Santaro TV commercial: “Let’s Try It” edition (60 seconds + making-of footage)

WANIMA, whose songs always give you a strong push forward, are popular across generations.

Their track “Yatte Miyo” is a familiar tune that was also used in an au commercial.

The melody makes you think, “Haven’t I heard this somewhere before?” In fact, it’s a cover arrangement of the British folk song “Picnic.” Starting something new in a different environment takes courage, but let this song boost your spirits and try taking on all kinds of challenges!

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utatane

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Song of BeginningsOhashi Takuya

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

With entrance ceremonies approaching, the song I want those standing at a new starting line to hear is “Hajimari no Uta” (“Song of Beginnings”).

Released by Takuya Ohashi in 2008, it was chosen as the “U-Can 2008 Campaign Song.” It’s his first solo single—while he’s also active as part of Sukima Switch—and its buoyant sound really shines.

When you’re struggling with school life, that memorable chorus is exactly what you should listen to.

It’s a warm track that will support everyone embarking on a brand-new chapter.

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mutō

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