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

Stand Out Fit InONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK: Stand Out Fit In [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Have you ever read the room and ended up suppressing your true self? In the new social world of high school, you might find more situations where you’re expected to be “normal.” That’s exactly when I want you to listen to this classic track from ONE OK ROCK’s album Eye of the Storm.

It’s been on air as a Honda commercial song since 2018, so many of you probably have it stuck in your heads.

The message “hamidashite najime”—“stand out and still belong”—carries the hope that you’ll blend in without losing who you are.

This piece also mirrors the band’s own journey of continual challenges across different cultures.

On the morning you slip into your new uniform, if you play this song, it will surely give you the courage to take that first step as your authentic self.

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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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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Next Stage!!sutopuri

[MV] Next Stage!! / Strawberry Prince

Strawberry Prince is an entertainment group that’s active mainly on the internet.

“Next Stage!!,” included on their 2020 release “Strawberry Next!,” is an upbeat dance track that makes you want to sing it live.

Its message about moving forward together with your friends is perfect for life at a new school! If you split up the lyrics by parts and sing them together at karaoke, it’s a great way to break the ice and become friends!

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mutō

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To tomorrowLittle Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster “To Tomorrow” Short Ver.

The vocal group Little Glee Monster is highly acclaimed for their strong singing ability and enjoys considerable popularity among women.

Their song “Ashita e” (“To Tomorrow”) stands out with its powerful lyrics and moving melody.

Spring is a season of farewells, but it’s also a time when we must look forward.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to listen to in such a spring.

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Ryo

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