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

CorrectRADWIMPS43rank/position

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Music Video]

A gentle anthem of support that blends the bittersweetness and hope of youth.

It portrays, with a warm gaze, the feelings of young people searching for answers of their own.

Its message—that there is no single right answer in life and it’s okay to move forward at your own pace—will surely touch everyone’s heart.

Released digitally in January 2024 by RADWIMPS, this song has often been sung at school graduation ceremonies and in scenes of remembrance.

When you feel anxious about the future or find yourself at a crossroads in life, this warm, comforting track will softly nudge you forward.

Please, take the courage from this song to help you step into a new beginning.

broad daylightKing Gnu44rank/position

King Gnu – Hakujitsu

Triggered by its selection as the theme song for the drama “Innocence: False Accusation Lawyer,” it became an explosive hit.

King Gnu had already been highly regarded among music enthusiasts for their taste and technical skill, but “Hakujitsu” gave the impression that they suddenly stepped into the spotlight.

While “Hakujitsu” initially seems like a gentle ballad from its mellow intro, its rhythmically woven lyrics and powerful vocal delivery make it a track that can really liven up a karaoke room.

If you can sing it flawlessly at karaoke, you’re sure to be the star of the show.

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satou-san

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Racing into the NightYOASOBI45rank/position

YOASOBI “Racing into the Night” Official Music Video

YOASOBI’s “Yoru ni Kakeru” is also extremely popular as background music for dance.

Released as a single in December 2019, it dominated virtually every chart in 2020 and has become such a classic that it seems like there’s no one who hasn’t heard it.

YouTube is full of kids’ dance videos to the song, which shows just how popular it is.

There are routines at various levels from elementary to high school, so be sure to try a dance performance at your school’s sports day or festival!

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Hamada Takuya

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astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN46rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

Released in March 2001, this BUMP OF CHICKEN song was also used as an insert track for the drama “Tentaikansoku” (Stargazing).

The image of the protagonist gazing up at the starry sky while reflecting on their future and relationships is striking.

The lyrics capture the drive to chase dreams and the struggle with reality, resonating deeply with listeners.

It’s a song we especially recommend to those facing worries and uncertainties in their youth.

Listen to it while looking up at the night sky, and you’re sure to find courage.

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN47rank/position

I tried dancing 'Sugar Song and Bitter Step' in front of the Eiffel Tower

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN is a rock band known for their powerful vocals and high-level musicianship.

Their 2015 release “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” is a danceable track packed with vibrant charm.

The lively guitar tones in the intro make you want to step along.

Its refreshing melody line, carried by a rhythmic tempo, will resonate with you.

Whether you go for technical choreography or arrange it for beginners, this uptempo song will liven up any school or cultural festival!

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mutō

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YELLikimonogakari48rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “YELL” Music Video

An emotionally moving number by Ikimono-gakari, cherished as a staple graduation song.

Its lyrics don’t treat parting as something merely sad, but as a new beginning toward each person’s dreams—words that are sure to bring tears to your eyes.

Even while burdened by anxiety and inner conflict about the future—like having wings but being unable to fly—the image of confronting one’s own weakness and moving forward into tomorrow stirs everyone’s heart.

Released in September 2009 as a double A-side single alongside the bright, poppy “Joyful,” the song was also selected as a required piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

Though gentle in tone, this powerful track resonates deeply, encouraging those taking a new step forward with the bonds of their friends in their hearts.

Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA49rank/position

LiSA “Gurenge” -MUSiC CLiP- (Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc Opening Theme)

It features a powerful rock sound and LiSA’s clear, crystalline vocals.

The lyrics portray the courage to face hardship and find hope amid battle, filled with a positive message that even elementary school students can relate to.

With a simple, easy-to-remember melody line and lyrics that express emotion straightforwardly, it’s beloved as a karaoke staple.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba from April 2019, it was also performed spectacularly at NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen in December 2020.

Its singable vocal range and simple melody make it perfect for music classes and school events.

It’s also recommended for when you want to get excited with friends at karaoke or sing together with everyone.