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

DREAMIN’ONDa-iCE71rank/position

[DREAMIN′ ON] Da-iCE “Easy Dance & Bandana” — A dance you can do at sports day or at home! Perfect for toddlers and elementary school kids!

A heart-thumping medium-tempo tune by Da-iCE that sings of boundless possibilities and a spirit of adventure.

It portrays the passion of chasing dreams and the courage to move forward.

Released in August 2020, the song drew attention as the opening theme for the Wano Country arc of the TV anime ONE PIECE.

The powerful vocals and dance performance bring out Da-iCE’s unique appeal to the fullest.

It’s perfect for school sports day dances too—before you know it, you’ll be smiling as you move your body to the melody.

swallowYOASOBI with Midorīzu72rank/position

"Tsubame" / YOASOBI with Midories Official Music Video

It’s a pop song that sings of hope for the future.

Released in October 2021, it was used as the theme song for NHK’s children’s SDGs program “Hirogare! Iro Tori Dori.” Born from a collaboration between YOASOBI and the group Midories, the piece beautifully blends children’s pure voices with electronic sounds.

It was also broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in October and November 2021, warming the hearts of even more people.

Along with its grand melody, it carries a powerful message that small individual actions can create great change, making it an excellent choice for dynamic moments in group gymnastics performances.

It’s a perfect track as BGM for synchronized large-group routines at school sports festivals and athletic meets.

Dokimeki Diaryasmi feat. Chinozo73rank/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.

Helloyama × bocchiboromaru74rank/position

yama × Bocchi Boromaru “Hello” MV (TV anime “Pokémon” opening theme)

A heartwarming collaborative piece by yama and Bocchi Boromaru, brimming with positive energy as a rousing anthem.

It carries a message that awakens hope for the future and a spirit of adventure, with a simple yet powerful melody that resonates deeply.

The song is approachable for a wide audience and was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Pokémon starting in October 2023.

In December 2023, it was released on CD in two formats: a standard edition and a limited-time production edition.

As a positive track that makes you want to sing along with someone, it’s perfect for cheering at sports days and athletic festivals.

Raise your voices together with friends under the blue sky, and it will surely become a wonderful memory.

Go for it!Urufuruzu75rank/position

Ulfuls – Guts da ze!!

This is a track bursting with energy, featuring a powerful, cheer-song-like message that truly resonates.

The lyrics express the courage to face difficulties and a strong will to never give up in a positive way, uplifting you when you’re feeling down.

Combined with Ulfuls’ energetic performance, it becomes a warm, encouraging song that gently gives listeners a push forward.

Released in December 1995, it brought courage and hope to many people.

It’s perfect for times when you want to boost your motivation and energy—school events like sports days, right before a game, or as a morning wake-up tune.

Even when you’re dealing with hardships or worries, this dependable anthem gives you the strength to look ahead and take that first step.

Theme of Lupin the ThirdŌno Yūji76rank/position

Lupin the Third Theme (Rock Version) [Wind Ensemble Hit]

A piece centered on the piano of Yuji Ohno, a leading figure in Japan’s jazz scene.

Its thrilling, dynamic performance and chord progressions inspired by Spaghetti Westerns vividly portray the protagonist’s dazzling exploits.

Released as a single in October 1977, it added color as the opening theme for the anime series.

From its impactful opening, the rhythmic call-and-response of the chorus leading into the refrain leaves a strong impression on listeners.

Arranged as a march, it would also make a commanding presence at sports days and other events.

GloriousBE:FIRST77rank/position

BE:FIRST / Glorious -Special Movie-

A gem of a song produced as the official cheer anthem for the 102nd All Japan High School Soccer Championship.

BE:FIRST’s overwhelming vocal prowess and moving lyrics strike a chord.

This work is a youth anthem that sings of the courage to face adversity and the bonds between teammates.

Released in November 2023, it topped Tower Records’ monthly chart.

An emotional and powerful track perfectly suited to the sweat-and-tears stage of the school sports festival.

It’s a number that gives you the courage to move forward together with your friends.

BE:FIRST’s soulful vocals are sure to set your hearts ablaze!