[University Students] Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings [By Generation]

Make you happyNiziU15rank/position

NiziU 『Make you happy』 M/V

Many of you may be familiar with this song.

NiziU’s “Make you happy,” which shot to fame as the “Jump Rope Dance,” is a track that dancers can pick up easily.

While the choreography throughout the song follows some fairly intricate musical accents, its relatively catchy movements are a big draw.

On top of that, you can spot a bit of isolation—moving a single part of the body independently, a fundamental dance technique—so beginners might find it a little challenging.

However, as long as you memorize the sequence, the choreography for the chorus uses movements that even beginners can handle.

The simple yet unforgettable choreography, unlike anything before, makes a strong impression and really makes you want to try it yourself!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Fukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda

Report a problem

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE16rank/position

[Lilac] Mrs. GREEN APPLE 'Flag & Easy Dance' — A simple arrangement dance you can perform at sports festivals and recitals!

A heartwarming cheer song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE that gently embraces the youthful days where hope and anxiety coexist.

While tenderly acknowledging the loneliness and inner struggles we carry as time passes, it conveys the message: “Cherish yourself just as you are.” Released in April 2024 as the opening theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery” (Bokyaku Battery), it won the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards.

Singing of unforgettable memories and bonds with cherished people, this song is perfect for group performances at school sports festivals and field days.

It fosters unity among students and helps create unforgettable moments.

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN17rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

BUMP OF CHICKEN’s signature song “Tentai Kansoku” (Stargazing).

Watching this music video reminds me of how I used to look up at the sky over and over with the telescope we had at home, almost every night.

Even though it’s a song from the very beginning of the 21st century, it’s a timeless classic!

Kitearashi18rank/position

ARASHI – Kite [Official Music Video]

This song was written and composed by Kenshi Yonezu, who leads the J-POP scene and now creates numerous popular tracks not only with his own music but also through songwriting and producing for others.

Created as the “NHK 2020 Song,” it’s a piece filled with cheers of encouragement for those pursuing their dreams.

Naturally, since it was made with the Olympics in mind, its message is also perfect for school sports days and athletic festivals.

With Arashi’s five-member harmony laid over a gentle, subdued melody, it’s a masterpiece packed with moving, heartwarming elements.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

LOSERYonezu Kenshi19rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – LOSER

Released in 2016 as the fifth single, this song is quite an outlier, having surpassed 100 million views thanks to its high-quality music video.

It has a dark yet lively vibe that’s quintessential Kenshi Yonezu and very cool.

It has also been featured widely in the media, including as the song for Honda’s JADE commercial.

We’ve gotta do what seems impossible.Sambomasutā20rank/position

I’ve gotta do the thing that seems impossible.

A powerful anthem that gives you a push in those youthful moments.

Released by Sambomaster in February 2010, this song carries a warm message that boosts self-affirmation and the spirit to take on challenges.

Centered on themes of “not giving up,” “moving forward,” and “possibility,” it offers a gentle embrace for everyone’s anxieties and doubts while giving the courage to take a new step.

It has been featured in a Nissan commercial and as the image song for the film Cheer☆Dance, resonating with many hearts.

It’s a classic that students training for sports festivals, as well as anyone standing at a crossroads in life, should hear.

Zankyo SankaAimer21rank/position

Aimer「Zankyosanka」MUSIC VIDEO（Demon Slayer:Kimetsu no Yaiba Entertainment District Arc Theme Song）

Released in January 2022 as Aimer’s 20th single, this song was selected as the opening theme for the popular anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc.

It topped the Billboard Japan Hot 100 for nine consecutive weeks, surpassed 200 million streams, and received a Special Award at the Japan Record Awards.

Masahiro Tobinai’s bold arrangement features resplendent brass and strings that brilliantly capture both the opulence of the red-light district and the tension of battle.

The lyrics, imbued with a powerful resolve to overcome past pain and resound into the future, embody the very determination of characters who confront their fate.

Performed even in cheering scenes at Koshien, it’s a song cherished not only by anime fans but also by many listeners running through their youth.