Ranking of Popular Japanese Music/J-POP Artists Among University Students [2026]

Go for it!Urufuruzu85rank/position

Ulfuls – Guts da ze!!

This is a track bursting with energy, featuring a powerful, cheer-song-like message that truly resonates.

The lyrics express the courage to face difficulties and a strong will to never give up in a positive way, uplifting you when you’re feeling down.

Combined with Ulfuls’ energetic performance, it becomes a warm, encouraging song that gently gives listeners a push forward.

Released in December 1995, it brought courage and hope to many people.

It’s perfect for times when you want to boost your motivation and energy—school events like sports days, right before a game, or as a morning wake-up tune.

Even when you’re dealing with hardships or worries, this dependable anthem gives you the strength to look ahead and take that first step.

Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya86rank/position

Where Our Blue Is / Tatsuya Kitani

Tatsuya Kitani’s song “Ao no Sumika” captivates with a beautiful, heart‑stirring melody that feels like a snapshot of a fleeting moment in youth.

Released in July 2023, it drew attention as the opening theme for the second season of the anime Jujutsu Kaisen.

The lyrics, which portray lost time and feelings that never reached their destination, resonate deeply with listeners.

Its sense of speed and drive makes it perfect for school sports days and athletic festivals.

It’s a track I especially recommend to those who are right in the midst of their youth.

O flowers now in full bloom,Kobukuro87rank/position

Kobukuro – Oh flowers now in full bloom

Sports days and athletic festivals are moving because of the way everyone joins forces and does their best.

Released by Kobukuro in February 2014, this song was created as the theme for NHK’s broadcasts of the Sochi Olympics and Paralympics.

It carries a message about embracing your individuality, overcoming hardships, and blossoming into a beautiful flower.

The track is also included on the album “One Song From Two Hearts,” and its music video depicts vividly colored flowers growing larger and larger.

The lyrics, which celebrate people who move forward with strength and kindness in their hearts, are perfect for scenes at sports days and athletic festivals where everyone works together.

It’s an uplifting song that gives you energy!

AitaiKato Miria88rank/position

Miliyah Kato - “Aitai”

There are times when unrequited love makes you feel mentally worn down.

It’s even harder when the person you like already has someone they love or is in a relationship.

That’s when I want you to listen to this song: Miliyah Kato’s “Aitai.” Released in 2009, this track has maintained strong popularity—even being featured on THE FIRST TAKE in 2021.

That shows just how many people have had their hearts moved by it.

Feelings that won’t come true, no matter how strongly you wish—when simply carrying them hurts, try listening to this song.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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OverrideYoshida Yayo89rank/position

Override – Kasane Teto SV [Yase Yoshida]

This is an electronic music track that delivers an exhilarating sense of speed! Released in November 2023, it features Kasane Teto’s powerful vocals and a danceable sound that skillfully blends tropical house and drum and bass.

The lyrics vividly portray a young person struggling to break free from the absurdity of a life predetermined by birth and environment.

I think it would be a great fit for running events at school sports days or athletic festivals!

Theme of Lupin the ThirdŌno Yūji90rank/position

Lupin the Third Theme ’78 – Yuji Ohno

This is “Theme from Lupin the Third,” the song used as the main theme for the anime Lupin the Third, originally created by Monkey Punch.

The composer is Yuji Ohno, a jazz pianist and composer-arranger.

It’s an anime song every Japanese person knows! It’s also often used as a cheer song at high school baseball games.

If you want to make your sports day or athletic festival cool and exciting, this is the track to choose!

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sasashina

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One Heartatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu91rank/position

ATARASHII GAKKO! – One Heart (Official Music Video)

A cheer song bursting with positive energy and youthful power! Filmed in a gymnasium together with fans known as “Seishun Club Members,” it’s a warm, light-filled visual piece.

ATARASHII GAKKO! has consistently delivered strong messages about valuing individuality through works like the albums “Ma-Ningen” and “Wakage Gaitaru.” This track was produced in March 2025 as a song for a Bourbon commercial, and it’s a powerful push for those starting a new chapter in life.

It’s sure to encourage you through tense entrance ceremonies, important sports day practice, and the big day itself.

The authentic message and dynamic performance of ATARASHII GAKKO! will surely resonate with your heart!