Songs that hype up Sports Day and Athletic Festivals: Japanese Music / J-Pop Artist Rankings [2026]

Heart-throbbingHinatazaka4664rank/position

Hinatazaka46 “Kyun”

Hinatazaka46’s “Kyun” follows the classic idol style, with a cute and catchy melody that’s perfect for school festivals and sports days.

While the combinations in the choreography are challenging, many of the individual moves are simple, so with practice you can master it.

Why not aim for a full, exact cover? I think dancing in school uniforms would look adorable.

Everyone is a heroAI65rank/position

Minnagaminna Au (Full Version)

AI captivates many fans with a powerful, resonant voice that speaks to the heart.

This song, too, conveys a moving message through its lyrics and AI’s vocal expression.

Released in February 2016 as the CM song for au’s “Santaro” series, it has been loved by many ever since.

A new version was produced for the first time in eight years, showing how enduring the song’s appeal is.

It carries the idea that through everyday joys and challenges, anyone can become a hero in their own right.

It’s also perfect as a cheer song for school sports days, making it a track that people of all ages—from children to adults—can enjoy.

It’s a wonderful song that gives you courage every time you listen.

single-minded; wholehearted; devoted; earnestKing Gnu66rank/position

King Gnu – Ichizu

This song features an impressive, grand sound written as the theme for the anime film Jujutsu Kaisen 0.

Since its release in December 2021, it has topped the Oricon Weekly Digital Singles chart and went on to rank No.

1 on the combined yearly singles chart the following year.

Its powerful guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and the rich harmonies woven by the two vocalists are truly stirring.

Singing of the resolve and determination to give everything for a loved one, the track showcases King Gnu’s signature mixture rock sound.

It’s a highly recommended song when you want to take on something with all your might or fire yourself up.

Live in the present.Saucy Dog67rank/position

Saucy Dog “Live in the present.” Music Video

Powerfully singing of youthful passion and hope, this Saucy Dog track was created as a cheer anthem for the 101st All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

Portraying growth through overcoming setbacks and hardship, bonds with teammates, and the courage to move forward while staying true to oneself, the song deeply resonates with young people navigating high school life during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Released in December 2022, it has become an indispensable fan favorite at their live shows, giving a strong push not only to soccer players but also to students working hard every day for their clubs and school events.

Dokimeki Diaryasmi feat. Chinozo68rank/position

Dokimeki Diary – asmi feat. Chinozo (Official Music Video)

Like weaving together precious memories, this song is filled with uplifting messages brimming with hope and anticipation.

asmi’s clear, transparent vocals and Chinozo’s refined compositional sense blend beautifully, creating a pleasant sense of elation.

Portraying the courage and determination to take a new step forward while overcoming the anxieties and confusion of a journey of self-discovery, the track has been beloved as the opening theme for the Pokémon TV anime since April 2023.

It also received its first full-size performance during the special program “Anime Pokémon Music Festival,” broadcast on the TV Tokyo network on March 31.

It’s a powerful cheer song that gives you a supportive push at moments of new challenges—such as before events at sports days or athletic festivals.

Rat-tat-tatSandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu69rank/position

‘Rat-tat-tat’ Official Music Video / Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE

Rat-tat-tat” by J SOUL BROTHERS III from EXILE TRIBE drew attention as the song for the “Zombie de Dance” segment at USJ’s Halloween event.

Released in 2019, the track is memorable for its distinctive choreography in the chorus, where you raise both hands and swing them side to side.

LDH group songs can seem difficult to dance to, but don’t worry—an official kid-friendly easy version is available! There are even parts in the lyrics that tell you whether to move your hands up or down, so you can just follow along.

Let’s hype up your sports day with a cool dance!

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R.Y.U.S.E.ISandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu70rank/position

Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE / “R.Y.U.S.E.I.” Music Video

The thirteenth single by the dance and vocal group Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE.

Released in June 2014, it gained attention with multiple tie-ins, including serving as the 2014 campaign song for Tokyo City Keiba.

It is also included on the album PLANET SEVEN.

It’s a pop EDM-style track characterized by a strong beat and an exhilarating sound that lifts your mood just by listening.

The running man choreography in the instrumental break is widely known and easy for anyone to imitate.

It’s a hot dance tune perfect for everyone to perform together in coordinated routines at school sports days and athletic festivals.