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

Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE1rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Blue and Summer

Brimming with the sparkle and exhilaration of summer, this piece is perfect as BGM for sports days and athletic festivals.

Created by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, it was released in August 2018 as the theme song for the film “Aonatsu: 30 Days of Love.” It was later included on the album “Attitude.” Its refreshing band sound and a worldview that captures the brilliance of youth are the song’s key charms.

Overflowing with energy that gives listeners a push forward, it boosts the motivation of students practicing hard for the big day.

How about playing it during relays, cheer battles, and other moments when you want to heat up the field? It’s sure to become a cheer that resonates in the hearts of those working up a sweat.

DREAMIN’ONDa-iCE2rank/position

Da-iCE / <TV Anime “ONE PIECE” Theme Song> “DREAMIN’ ON” Music Video

This song expresses the courage and strong will to pursue one’s dreams.

Released in August 2020, it was selected as the 23rd opening theme for the popular anime ONE PIECE.

As the first installment of Da-iCE’s six-month consecutive release plan, it was created with a focus on the theme of “vision.” The lyrics, written by Sota Hanamura, are notable for their powerful message.

The song celebrates the spirit of adventure in taking on unknown worlds with your friends and the importance of staying true to yourself.

Conveying the value of moving forward without being defeated by adversity, this track is sure to encourage everyone taking on events at sports days and athletic festivals together with their teammates!

peace signYonezu Kenshi3rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Peace Sign

Crank up the energy with this powerful guitar rock tune! Written by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu, it was released as a single in June 2017.

Chosen as the opening theme for Season 2, Cour 1 of the anime My Hero Academia, it quickly became a sensation.

The lyrics carry a message about overcoming your own weaknesses and charging toward the future, giving a strong push to anyone striving forward.

Blending a sense of speed with emotional vocals, this track is a perfect BGM choice for school sports days and athletic festivals where students give it their all—guaranteed to heat up any competition!

AgainWANIMA4rank/position

WANIMA “Again” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

A rock tune by WANIMA that sings of a strong will to move forward again while overcoming setbacks and failures.

It captures the realization that past experiences shape who we are now, and the determination to take a new step with the courage to stand up again and again.

Released in March 2019 on their 4th single “Good Job!!,” the song also drew attention as the theme for the TBS drama “Maison de Police.” It’s a motivational anthem that gently supports not only athletes but everyone striving toward their dreams and goals.

Happinessarashi5rank/position

ARASHI – Happiness [Official Music Video]

How about a hit number by Arashi, a group beloved nationwide for many years? Released in September 2007 as their 20th single, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Yamada Taro Monogatari,” starring Kazunari Ninomiya and Sho Sakurai, and has become one of their most cherished signature songs.

Carrying a message about moving forward to new places rather than looking back on the past, its energetic, guitar-driven sound lifts your spirits.

The bright, fast-paced melody is perfect as background music for heated moments like relay races at school sports days!

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number6rank/position

back number – Takane no Hanako-san (full)

The eighth single by back number, a three-piece rock band known for realistic psychological portrayals and wistful melodies.

The situations and emotions—ones many of us likely experienced in our youth—really hit home.

Meanwhile, the refreshing sound, in contrast to the heartrending lyrics, evokes the atmosphere of student-era romance and draws you even deeper into the song’s world.

A highly relatable unrequited love song, especially recommended for high schoolers in love.

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New Treasure IslandSakanakushon7rank/position

Shin Takarajima / Sakanaction SIT Band - Sapporo International Information High School Wind Ensemble

This is a lively song brimming with children’s excitement for unknown adventures.

Created by Sakanaction, it was produced in September 2015 as the theme song for the film “Bakuman.” Its retro synthesizer sound and upbeat rhythm are striking, and the production that evokes the late 1980s to early 1990s makes you feel as if you’ve slipped back in time.

Giving you the courage to take a bold step into the future, this track is perfect for a school sports day entrance scene or a dance number! It will fill the venue with a bright mood and put smiles on everyone’s faces.