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

Zankyo SankaAimer91rank/position

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

A work whose appeal lies in the grand worldview woven by its visuals and music.

The powerful message in the lyrics—“overcoming past pain and moving toward the future”—harmonizes beautifully with the dark, epic melody.

Aimer’s distinctive vocals resonate with deep emotion and stir the heart.

It was pre-released digitally in December 2021, followed by a CD single in January 2022.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Entertainment District Arc, it drew major attention, including topping two categories on Billboard Japan after its digital release.

It’s perfect when you need the courage to pursue your ideals or to fire yourself up.

Listen to this while training, and you’ll feel the strength to push past your limits.

KICKBACKYonezu Kenshi92rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – KICKBACK

Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter who also has a persona as a Vocaloid producer and continues to expand the musical possibilities of the J-pop scene.

The track released in November 2022, used as the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man, drew major attention for featuring Daiki Tsuneta of King Gnu on arrangement.

With its drum’n’bass-driven, intense beat and whirlwind progression, the sound feels like a roller coaster that sweeps listeners along, deeply linking with the work’s frenzied worldview.

The lyrics, infused with the protagonist’s somewhat nihilistic and self-destructive desire for happiness and good fortune, strike a powerful impulse into the listener’s heart.

It’s an aggressive, cool rock tune that blasts away the boredom of everyday life and lifts your mood to the max.

AgainWANIMA93rank/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.

Sakura, Bloom!arashi94rank/position

[+81 DANCE STUDIO] Arashi – Sakura Sake / Performed by Travis Japan

As a recommended song for high school students working hard every day to prepare for entrance exams, you can’t leave out this one by the hugely popular Johnny’s group Arashi.

Many exam-takers are studying diligently to achieve the paths they’ve set their sights on by the cherry blossom season in spring, and the lyrics of this song are packed with words that can really support your heart at times like that.

On top of that, the refreshing melody is memorable, and listening to this track might help you relax and focus on your studies.

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Hane Keisuke

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Overdosenatori95rank/position

Natori – Overdose

Natori’s “Overdose” is a song characterized by a unique, whisper-like singing style.

Strangely soothing, it’s perfect for a quick reset before you start studying.

It eases tension and flips on your motivation switch—highly recommended as a pre-study track.

Try listening with your eyes closed at a moderate volume.

You can also savor the lyrics and reflect on your own feelings as you listen.

Natori’s expressively rich voice is sure to boost your learning efficiency.