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

Blue Springback number64rank/position

back number – Aoi Haru (full)

This rock number by back number is characterized by its strummed guitars and exhilarating, fast-paced sound.

While wrestling with one’s own shortcomings, the down-to-earth message of desperately trying to keep looking forward carries a heat that can ignite the listener’s heart.

Released in November 2012 as the band’s seventh single, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “High School Entrance Exam” starring Masami Nagasawa, and also drew attention as the band’s first self-produced work.

For high school students feeling the pressure of daily studies and club activities, why not turn to this song when you hit a wall and use it as strength to push through? It’s sure to rouse a discouraged heart.

From Me to Youflumpool65rank/position

flumpool “Kimi ni Todoke” Music Video

A classic flumpool song that captures the sweet and bittersweet feelings of youthful love.

Released in September 2010, it was chosen as the theme song for the popular film “Kimi ni Todoke,” starring Mikako Tabe.

It resonates with the desire to convey your feelings straightforwardly to someone important.

The chorus line “Todoke” (“Reach”) is especially memorable and guaranteed to fire up any karaoke session! It’s the perfect track for a high school boy who wants to confess his feelings to his crush.

flumpool’s songs are also hugely popular with women, so if you can sing it coolly, your charm factor is sure to go up.

Highly recommended for adults who want to reminisce about their youthful romances, too!

KanadeSukima Suichi66rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

This song depicts the parting with someone precious—and the wish to remain connected at heart beyond that farewell—set to a beautiful ballad.

Released by Sukima Switch in March 2004 as their second single, it features a sentimental sound centered on piano and guitar that resonates deeply.

It was used as an insert song in the film “Rough,” as the theme song for the drama “Sotsu Uta,” and in 2006 it was selected as the ending theme for the final day of “Netto Koshien.” It’s a track that, while looking back on days spent with friends, makes you want to cherish those bonds from here on out.

Unrequited lovemiwa67rank/position

miwa 'Unrequited Love'

If you’re a high school student, there’s a good chance you’re in a relationship right now or have a crush on someone, right? For those in that situation, I highly recommend this song by miwa—its title says it all: “Kataomoi” (Unrequited Love).

Released in 2012, it’s miwa’s eighth single.

Although it’s called “unrequited love,” the theme centers on a love that’s difficult and likely unattainable, and many listeners will probably feel their hearts tighten as they listen.

It’s the perfect track for when you want to lean into that bittersweet mood or have a good cry.

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utatane

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Wherever you areONE OK ROCK68rank/position

Wherever You Are – ONE OK ROCK Full

This is a masterpiece by ONE OK ROCK, celebrated for its intricate musicality and emotional lyrics.

A gem of a love song that reflects feelings for a cherished person, its seamless blend of English and Japanese lyrics truly resonates.

Included on the album “Niche Syndrome,” the track was also featured in a 2015 NTT Docomo commercial, drawing widespread attention.

In both 2017 and 2018, it ranked No.

1 as the most-used song at weddings for two consecutive years.

It’s a perfect song to listen to when you want to look back on memories with someone special or on a special day.

Please give this heartwarming piece a listen—you’re sure to be moved.

My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS69rank/position

RADWIMPS – Zenzenzense (movie ver.) [Official Music Video]

This RADWIMPS song sings of a love that transcends time and space.

It became a massive hit as the theme song for the animated film “Your Name.” Released in August 2016, the track features a driving melody and lyrics that truly resonate.

The chorus is especially easy to remember, and belting it out with power is sure to move hearts.

There are multiple versions, including a “movie ver.” produced as part of the film’s score and an “original ver.” included on RADWIMPS’ album “Ningen Kaika” (Human Bloom).

It’s a perfect pick for high school guys looking to fire up the room at karaoke—and a great choice for a karaoke date with your favorite girl.

Christmas songback number70rank/position

back number – “Christmas Song” Music Video

Just because it’s Christmas doesn’t mean everyone feels happy.

If you’ve “recently had your heart broken and are feeling down,” this might hit especially hard when you sing it.

It’s a song by the rock band back number—also known for “Happy End” and “Takane no Hanako-san”—released in 2015 as their 14th single.

Perhaps thanks to the down-to-earth sound and vocals, the message in the lyrics feels like it slips straight into your heart.

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Araki Jakkan

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