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

Helloyama × bocchiboromaru86rank/position

yama × Bocchi Boromaru “Hello” MV (TV anime “Pokémon” opening theme)

A heartwarming collaborative piece by yama and Bocchi Boromaru, brimming with positive energy as a rousing anthem.

It carries a message that awakens hope for the future and a spirit of adventure, with a simple yet powerful melody that resonates deeply.

The song is approachable for a wide audience and was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Pokémon starting in October 2023.

In December 2023, it was released on CD in two formats: a standard edition and a limited-time production edition.

As a positive track that makes you want to sing along with someone, it’s perfect for cheering at sports days and athletic festivals.

Raise your voices together with friends under the blue sky, and it will surely become a wonderful memory.

Go for it!Urufuruzu87rank/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 HabitatKitanitatsuya88rank/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,Kobukuro89rank/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 Miria90rank/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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