Good songs recommended for junior high school students. Classic and popular Japanese hits.

BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – BOW AND ARROW / Yuzuru Hanyu Short Program ver.

This is a powerful track that Kenshi Yonezu poured his heart and soul into, created as the opening theme for an anime centered on figure skating.

Depicting a story of challenge and growth, the work captures the passion of those who push themselves in the world of sports through its strong melody and profound lyrics.

Released in January 2025, it was written specifically as the theme song for the anime “Medalist,” and it’s memorable that Yonezu, a huge fan of the original manga, personally offered to create it.

The song was also performed on the opening day of the nationwide tour “Kenshi Yonezu 2025 TOUR / JUNK,” captivating the audience.

It’s highly recommended for anyone striving toward the dreams and goals of their youth, making it a perfect choice to boost motivation during morning commutes to school or before club activities.

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.

I can hear the song of beginnings.Kahara Tomomi

Tomomi Kahara – I Can Hear the Song of Beginnings

This is an original single that Tomomi Kahala released after a long time, which went on sale in May 2015 and ranked 36th on the Oricon weekly chart.

The lyrics were written by Tomomi Kahala, and the music was composed by Tetsuya Komuro.

It was used as the ending theme for Wednesday Mystery 9.

lapis lazuliAoi Eiru

Eir Aoi “Lapis Lazuli” Music Video

“Lapis Lazuli” is a single by Eir Aoi released in April 2015.

It reached No.

13 on the Oricon chart and No.

7 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

The song is used as the ending theme for The Heroic Legend of Arslan.

Kinnikuman HeroEndō Masaaki

Kinnikuman Hero – Masaaki Endoh | Official Audio

With his powerful vocals that stir the soul, Masaaki Endoh pours his passion into a heartfelt cry from the spirit.

It brilliantly portrays a hero who stands firm in justice and friendship, powerfully expressing blazing fighting spirit and bonds with comrades.

The brassy resonance and drum’n’bass beat add even more excitement to stunning effect.

Released in January 2025 as the opening theme for the TV anime “Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc Season 2,” the song is written and composed by APAZZI.

It’s a track I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who wants to etch a tale of indomitable spirit and friendship in their heart, and to those seeking the courage to face adversity.

Tomorrow will surely be a good day.Takahashi Yuu

Yū Takahashi’s directorial debut MV “Tomorrow Will Surely Be a Good Day” — Omokuri Director Edit Version (Short Size)

A heartwarming song by Yu Takahashi that, with a gentle singing voice, portrays the worries and joys everyone experiences.

Its positive message—like laughing off awkward moments and remembering that a rainbow comes after the rain—gently encourages listeners.

Released in June 2015, it was featured in a Daihatsu commercial.

It’s also used as the departure melody at JR Akita Station, Takahashi’s hometown station.

This song is recommended for when you want to lift your spirits, overcome difficulties, or take a step toward tomorrow.

A Gentle BallAimer

Aimer “Gentle Ball” Lyrics/English/Indonesian | NHK “Minna no Uta” | 25th single “SCOPE”

Set at a starlit nighttime ball, this enchanting work spins a fantastical tale.

Aimer’s husky voice blends exquisitely with the classical waltz motif, vividly portraying mysterious scenes unfolding in the stillness of the night.

Beautiful like a fairy tale yet tinged with a certain wistfulness, its world seems to mirror the feelings of a girl wavering on the boundary between dreams and reality.

Included on the single “SCOPE,” released in February 2025, and broadcast around the same time on NHK’s Minna no Uta, this piece is made all the more magical by arrangements from Ryota Nakano and Yusuke Tanaka.

It’s a song that will stay close to your heart—whether you’re spending time with friends after school in an empty classroom or lost in thought while gazing up at the night sky.