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

MORNIING SUNEXILE B HAPPY15rank/position

EXILE B HAPPY / MORNING SUN (Music Video)

Like refreshing morning light pouring in, EXILE B HAPPY’s song brightens the heart.

It was released digitally first in January 2024, followed by a CD release in May of the same year.

This pop song carries a positive message, themed around everyday happiness and a forward-looking start.

The lyrics, set to a bright and catchy melody, celebrate the beginning of a new day and will have you humming along before you know it! Whether you’re facing a challenge or feeling anxious, listening to this track is sure to lift your spirits.

It would also be perfect as an entrance song for a sports day or athletic festival, boosting participants’ energy and creating a fun atmosphere!

Bridge of Gloryyuzu16rank/position

Yuzu “Eikou no Kakehashi” Music Video

An enduring masterpiece by Yuzu, the folk duo that represents Japan.

It embraces all the pain and setbacks of the past, the days of effort piled up without running away, and makes you feel proud of who you are now.

That warm yet powerful message resonates deeply with anyone striving forward.

Released as a single in July 2004, it was used as the theme song for NHK’s broadcast of the Athens Olympics.

Many will remember it alongside the moving scene of the men’s gymnastics team winning gold for the first time in 28 years.

Give it a listen when your club activities aren’t yielding the results you want, or when exam pressure feels overwhelming.

You’ll find the courage to believe that none of your steps so far have been in vain—and to keep moving forward.

ultramarineYOASOBI17rank/position

YOASOBI “Gunjou” Official Music Video

A signature work by YOASOBI that vividly expresses young people’s passion and pursuit of dreams through striking lyrics.

Released in September 2020, the song gained broad recognition after being featured in Bourbon’s “Alfort Mini Chocolate” commercial.

In 2021, it was also selected as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “Dance ONE Project ’21,” adding flair to high school students’ dance performances.

Evoking the image of blue light, the piece impressively portrays the challenges of self-expression and creativity, making it perfect for school sports-day entrance marches and dance performances.

It’s a song that lets everyone share in the unique sense of unity of a sports festival and the courage to take the first step toward their dreams.

Full-Power BoySukima Suichi18rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Zenryoku Shonen” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / Zenryoku Shonen Music Video

Celebrated as one of Sukima Switch’s signature songs, this track sings of the strength of a pure heart that evokes the freshness of youth.

Carrying a message about the importance of holding on to youthful passion, it inspires the courage and energy to face difficulties.

It rekindles the playful spirit and willingness to take on challenges that are often lost in adulthood, reminding us of the beauty of living life to the fullest.

Released in April 2004, the song was featured in an NTT Docomo commercial for the Kansai region and became a key work that showcased Sukima Switch’s musical evolution.

It gives a boost to students practicing for sports days and athletic festivals, and serves as a reliable ally when you want to give your all toward a goal.

Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA19rank/position

LiSA “Gurenge” -MUSiC CLiP- (Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc Opening Theme)

This song depicts the courage to face adversity, with a powerful rock sound and a richly projected vocal that represents modern anime.

It captures the indomitable spirit of a protagonist striving to overcome countless hardships and the strong will to protect loved ones, resulting in a striking piece.

LiSA’s vocals brilliantly convey the story’s themes.

Released in April 2019, it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, became a massive hit, and earned numerous accolades, including an appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Its dynamic, high-impact sound is perfect for sports days and athletic festivals, and it also works great as a rousing cheer song everyone can enjoy together.

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN20rank/position

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” Live Music Video

With its lively beat and pop sound, UNISON SQUARE GARDEN’s “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” is perfect for school sports festivals.

Released as a single in 2015 and used as the ending theme for the UHF anime “Blood Blockade Battlefront,” it reached No.

1 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

“Sugar Song and Bitter Step” is a technically demanding track, featuring many moments where the music briefly stops, which is why many people use it for dance routines.

There are plenty of videos on YouTube, so why not check them out for inspiration for your sports day dance?

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Zankyo SankaAimer21rank/position

[For Sports Day and Recitals] Aimer “Zankyo Sanka” Simple Dance Choreography & Bandanas for Preschoolers and Elementary School Kids

Aimer’s songs, which sing of hope and courage with powerful, beautiful melodies, are perfect for dances where children move as one in body and spirit.

The lyrics, themed around the importance of bravely moving forward, and the bright, light rhythm leave a strong impression.

Released in December 2021, this track also gained popularity as a TV anime opening theme.

Its upbeat tempo and rhythmic development make it easy to dance to at school sports festivals, helping bring out children’s smiles and energy.

It’s also fun to get creative with choreography for each class or group.

Through the joy of dancing, it can be used to create lasting memories in children’s hearts.