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

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!

Living in ColorChantry Johnson and Dewain Whitmore78rank/position

Tokyo Disney Resort® – 40th Anniversary Theme Song “Living in Color”

This song, which depicts a vividly colorful world, was produced in June 2023 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Tokyo Disney Resort.

Created by Chantlie Johnson and Dwayne Whitmore, it blends a pop, energetic vibe with K-pop-inspired sounds.

It has also been used in Disney parades and has gained support from a wide audience.

The piece portrays people dancing and having fun together, carrying a message that values friendship and shared moments.

It’s perfect for flag dances at school sports festivals, and when children wave their flags as they dance, it’s sure to bring the whole venue together in excitement! Why not learn the choreography and practice for the big day?

Odoru Pompoko RinE-girls79rank/position

E-girls / Odoru Ponpokorin

The anime song “Odoru Pompokolin,” loved by a wide range of generations and used as the first ending theme of the first season of the anime Chibi Maruko-chan.

This version covered by the dance and vocal group E-girls is finished as dance music with a glamorous arrangement.

Its danceable, electronica-based beat will heat up any sports day program.

Set to a catchy melody, it’s a cheer song where you can enjoy lively steps and claps.

Let’s liven up the sporting festival with this song that everyone has heard at least once!

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mutō

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ROOFTOPS feat. Satoshi Fujiwara (Official HIGE DANDism)KERENMI80rank/position

KERENMI / ROOFTOPS feat. Satoshi Fujiwara (Official HIGE DANDism) [Music Video]

“ROOFTOPS” is a track released under the solo project name KERENMI by Koichi Tsutaya, a music producer who supports many popular artists.

The song features Satoshi Fujihara from Official HIGE DANDism on vocals and was used as an insert song for AbemaTV’s “Who Is a Wolf? – The Moon and the Wolf-chan.” It’s a brisk, liberating number that fully showcases Tsutaya’s prowess as a trackmaker.

It’s the perfect song to play at a school sports day on a sunny field!

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Hamada Takuya

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