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

POKÉDANCEnanahira8rank/position

[Official] “POKÉDANCE” Dance Practice by ENHYPEN — featuring partner Pokémon from past generations dancing

A lively, upbeat tune blending pop and dance music has been born.

Created to celebrate Pokémon Day in February 2024, it was released alongside an adorable animated music video where partner Pokémon from each region dance with their Trainers.

The lyrics, themed around friendship and everyday joys, warmly embrace the listener’s heart.

Though short, its catchy melody and charming vocals make it perfect for energizing school sports days and athletic festivals.

It’s also great for practicing dance—a song that brings smiles to everyone.

Highly recommended not only for elementary school sports days, but also for anyone who wants to enjoy dancing with friends!

I am the strongest.Ado9rank/position

[Ado] I’m the Strongest (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)

A powerful anthem of will and resolve from the film ONE PIECE FILM RED.

Released by Ado in June 2022, the song is notable for lyrics brimming with self-affirmation that wells up from deep within and heartfelt care for one’s companions.

The energetic, exhilarating rock sound crafted by Motoki Omori of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE and Ado’s distinctive vocals truly shine.

The song expresses the feelings of the film’s character Uta, depicting the process of acknowledging one’s own weaknesses and anxieties while overcoming them to grow stronger.

It’s a perfect track for rallying yourself at a sports day or athletic festival, or when you want to strive together with your teammates.

Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai10rank/position

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Is Youth Embarrassing?' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Hazukashiika Seishun wa

This is a dynamic, invigorating track that dramatically portrays an all-out sprint.

Looking back as an adult, it brings to mind that fiery page of youth when we ran with everything we had.

Produced in July 2024 as the theme song for ABEMA’s “Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita Summer Vacation 2024,” the piece achieves an epic sense of scale through a collaboration with a 40-piece orchestra.

Its powerful melody and driving sound gently encourage young people to move forward without fear of taking on new challenges.

It’s also an ideal choice for background music at school sports days and athletic events.

A view I’ve never seen beforeSuda Masaki11rank/position

Masaki Suda “A Scenery I’ve Never Seen”

Masaki Suda’s “Mita Koto mo Nai Keshiki” really shines with its powerful high notes in the chorus—that’s the main highlight.

It’s a song that lets you move your body to the tempo while incorporating big handclaps.

There’s also an instrumental break, so it’s a great choice when you want to include changes in formation or full-group transitions.

Since parts of the song are up-tempo, introducing it from around the upper elementary grades could allow for dynamic, fast-paced performances—perfect for cool dances or mass games that showcase a sense of speed.

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mayumi

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So, you are not alone.Little Glee Monster12rank/position

Little Glee Monster “So, You’re Not Alone” Music Video Short Ver.

Little Glee Monster’s upbeat song “Dakara, Hitori Janai” (“That’s Why You’re Not Alone”).

Chosen as the ending theme for the anime My Hero Academia, it’s loved by anime fans as well.

As you move toward your dreams, there’s surely no one who can progress without hitting any walls.

Listening to this song makes you feel that way.

It’s a collection of 11 tracks that cheer on and encourage those who are giving their all.

With its sense of speed, it even seems like it could help your studying go more smoothly!

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sasashina

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One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS13rank/position

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “One More”

With lyrics that evoke youthful energy, this is a great recommendation as a cheer song for sports festivals: “Ato Hitotsu” by the music group FUNKY MONKEY BABYS.

Released as a single in 2010, it was chosen that same year as the cheer song by Asahi Broadcasting for the Summer Koshien.

Masahiro Tanaka, a pitcher for the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles, appears in the music video.

The lyrics, which sing “Don’t give up,” are perfect for kids giving their all at a sports day.

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Hamada Takuya

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We’ve gotta do what seems impossible.Sambomasutā14rank/position

[We’ve Gotta Do the Impossible] Sambomaster “Simple Dance” — A simple arranged dance you can do at sports days and presentations!

A positive, powerful song that makes kids want to move their bodies is one of Sambomaster’s popular tracks.

The lyrics convey the importance of taking on exactly what seems “impossible,” giving children confidence and courage.

Released in February 2010 as the theme for Nissan’s Serena commercial, the song was later used as the image song for the film Cheer☆Dance, capturing the hearts of many.

Combining energetic rhythms with a strong message, this track is perfect for those looking for music to dance to at events like sports days or recitals.

Even complex choreography can be easily adapted, so children who are new to dance can enjoy moving along!