Ikimono-gakari Cheer Songs and Popular Hits Ranking [2026]
One of Ikimonogakari’s charms is how their catchy sound combines with vocals that carry messages full of goodness, warmth, and kindness—lingering in your ears.
Many people have likely felt encouraged by those warm messages.
Here, we’ll introduce a ranking of their most popular cheer/encouragement songs.
Ikimonogakari’s Cheer/Support Songs: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (1–10)
YELLikimonogakari1rank/position

This is a song by Ikimono-gakari packed with the memories of youth.
Released in September 2009, this track sings about facing forward with strength, centered on themes of parting and dreams.
It was selected as the set piece for the NHK National School Music Competition’s junior high division, resonating with many students.
Its melodic style and profound lyrics make it perfect for graduations and the season of farewells.
It’s a supportive anthem that gently encourages those taking a new step forward—a wonderful song that also eases the anxieties before starting a new school.
Joyfulikimonogakari2rank/position

This is the song that became famous as the commercial jingle for Ezaki Glico’s “Pocky Chocolate,” and I think it left a strong impression on anyone who watched those ads back then! It’s a rhythm-focused song, so you don’t have to worry much about pitch—just get into the groove and it’s a lot of fun! It’s perfect for karaoke beginners or when you want to liven up the mood! There may be a part from the middle where the melody feels a bit high if you sing it in chest voice… but don’t worry! For the high notes, just crank up your energy and project your voice as if you’re aiming far away, and the sound will come out.
Engaging your facial muscles and using gestures is important too.
Above all, have fun!
The wind is blowing.ikimonogakari3rank/position

This song is characterized by a grand, hope-filled melody and a message that embraces the changing times with positivity.
Even in difficult situations, its powerful determination to keep moving forward, together with the orchestral arrangement, gives courage to listeners.
Released in July 2012 as Ikimono-gakari’s 24th single, it was selected as NHK’s theme song for the London Olympic and Paralympic broadcasts.
The track is also included on the album “I,” captivating audiences with its majestic scale and rich, resonant sound.
It’s a perfect match for parachute-ball (paraballoon) performances as well—its dynamic melody and strong message will highlight children’s energetic movements.
smileikimonogakari4rank/position

It’s a message song that says, “Let’s overcome anything and live with a smile.” It’s a track by Ikimono-gakari, the popular music group known for hits like “Arigatou” and “YELL,” released in 2013 as their 26th single.
It drew attention for being chosen as the theme song for the film “Pokémon the Movie: Best Wishes! Genesect and the Legend Awakened.” The warm melody and vocalist Yoshioka’s gentle voice are soothing.
It’s a classic ballad that fills you with the motivation to say, “All right, I’ll do my best again tomorrow!”
Spring Songikimonogakari5rank/position

A gem among Ikimono-gakari’s songs that blends the freshness and bittersweetness of spring! This work portrays nostalgia for the past and a powerful wish to reunite in the future, all through a crystalline, airy vocal performance.
Released in April 2012 as their 23rd single, it served as the theme song for the film Detective Conan: The Eleventh Striker, adding a moving touch to the story.
Fans will love the anecdote that the songwriter kept the Conan universe in mind and wove the protagonist’s circumstances into the lyrics.
The single reached No.
4 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and was later included on the classic album “I.” Perfect for the season of meetings and partings, this warm anthem of encouragement is sure to stay close to many hearts, giving the courage to move forward.
GOLDEN GIRLikimonogakari6rank/position

It’s a motivational song that makes you want to move forward firmly while staying true to yourself.
It’s a track by Ikimono-gakari, a music group that has long been at the forefront of the Japanese pop scene, released in 2014 as their 29th single.
It was the theme song for the drama “Onna wa Sore o Yurusanai,” so those who watched it might recognize it.
It’s a very bright, catchy piece.
Just the sound alone can lift your spirits.
To be honest, studying often isn’t very fun, right? With this song, you might be able to forget that feeling.
Thank youikimonogakari7rank/position

A number that warmly depicts the small joys of everyday life and gratitude to those who support us.
Many listeners will likely be moved by lyrics packed with feelings that can be conveyed without words and hopes for a future walked together.
Created by Ikimono-gakari and released in May 2010, it was chosen as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Gegege no Nyōbō.
In March 2011, it was also selected as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
It’s sure to resonate deeply with the athletes standing on the stage of their dreams and the families watching over them with prayerful hearts.
A wonderful song we’d love everyone with overflowing feelings to hear.
We’ve alwaysikimonogakari8rank/position

It was released in 2012 as Ikimono-gakari’s 22nd single.
The song was used in U-CAN’s 2012 campaign commercial and reached No.
4 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
With its fresh, positive lyrics, it’s a track that truly feels like Ikimono-gakari.
The band also appears in the “Opening” version of the same commercial.
I want to keep smiling.ikimonogakari9rank/position

In the school entrance season when anxiety and anticipation mix, Ikimono-gakari’s number is there to give you a push.
It’s the single they released in July 2011, well known as the song from Nissan’s “New Nissan Serena” commercial.
Even while affected by the earthquake disaster, it was crafted with the aim of being a “straightforward pop song,” one that brightly illuminates the listener’s heart.
Though it’s an epic track running over six minutes, it was also included on the album NEWTRAL and won the Excellence Award at the 53rd Japan Record Awards.
Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, soaring vocals and the up-tempo sound resonate, filling you with the courage to dive into a new world.
Any worries about the school life that’s about to begin will blow away when you listen to this song, and you’ll be able to take your first step with a smile!
In the Blueikimonogakari10rank/position

Ikimonogakari’s latest song brilliantly captures an explosion of youth and emotion.
It celebrates freedom and youthful energy, singing about the importance of taking new steps during adolescence.
Released in March 2024 and featured in a Mitsuya Cider commercial, the track charms with its bright, refreshing sound.
Alongside its synergy with the ad, the uplifting message has won over many listeners.
The music video’s vibrant imagery perfectly overlaps with the fun and beauty of student life! It’s a cheer song especially recommended for students in the midst of their youth—sure to make any school festival or cultural festival glow with excitement.


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