Popular Cheer Songs [Japanese Music Ranking]

Bridge of Gloryyuzu15rank/position

"Glorious Bridge" - Hata Children's Choir

Among the many graduation songs out there, this one stands out for its powerful message that truly resonates.

The lyrics about the unseen tears and steady effort that have shaped who we are today mirror the graduates reflecting on their six years of school life, bringing a lump to the throat.

Released in July 2004 as Yuzu’s 21st single, it served as the official theme song for NHK’s Athens Olympics broadcasts, moving people across Japan.

This grand ballad, which gives us the courage to face the future after overcoming hardships, feels perfect for ceremonies celebrating a new beginning.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing as you head toward a hope-filled tomorrow, expressing gratitude to teachers and parents along the way.

peace signYonezu Kenshi16rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Peace Sign

Kenshi Yonezu’s song, written as the opening theme for Season 2 of the youth anime My Hero Academia, is an anthem that powerfully portrays courage and challenge.

While acknowledging weakness, it follows a protagonist who takes a step toward their dreams, intertwining with a driving melody that stirs the listener’s heart.

Released in June 2017, the track topped the Billboard JAPAN Hot Animation weekly chart and became a massive hit, surpassing 300 million streams.

With its band-driven sound and Yonezu’s distinctive vocals, it’s a song that pushes all challengers forward.

Perfect for club practice or as a companion while watching sports—give it a listen.

Don’t give upZARD17rank/position

"Don't Give Up" Music Video

A signature ZARD song known for its powerful, heart-touching message and warm vocals.

Released in January 1993 as the theme song for the drama “Reiko Shiratori desu!” this piece beautifully sings of feelings for a cherished person working hard far away.

Izumi Sakai’s gentle voice conveys encouragement and deep love for a beloved, resulting in a song that feels close to the listener’s heart.

It has been used as the entrance march for the Spring High School Baseball Tournament and in the 24-Hour TV charity marathon, becoming established as a cheering anthem.

It’s a reliable companion when you want to support someone striving toward their dreams—or to rouse your own spirits.

migratory bird[Alexandros]18rank/position

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

A signature number by [Alexandros], with a driving melody and piercing high-register vocals that stir the listener’s heart.

It was included on a single released in March 2015 and is also known as the theme song for the film “Ake Garasu (Akegarasu).” The lyrics, which depict striving single-mindedly toward dreams and goals like a bird spreading its wings and soaring into the sky, really resonate.

When your mock exam results aren’t great or you feel anxious because you can’t see what lies ahead, the song’s positive energy will give you a push forward.

It’s a track I want exam takers to keep as a good-luck charm—something to listen to when you want to believe in yourself and sprint all the way to the finish.

To tomorrowLittle Glee Monster19rank/position

Little Glee Monster “To Tomorrow” Short Ver.

Known by the nickname “Little Glee,” Little Glee Monster is a female vocal group celebrated for their overwhelming yet beautiful choral work.

This is their ninth single, chosen as the ending theme for the travel variety show “Nariyuki Kaido Tabi,” and it drew attention for being the group’s first song with lyrics written by the members themselves.

Even when your heart breaks or things don’t go your way, the message of never stopping your steps forward will surely give courage to those feeling uneasy in a new environment.

With an arrangement that blends pop sensibilities and grandeur, layered with Little Glee’s trademark harmonies, it’s an uplifting song that soothes the heart.

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Hoshino Takashi

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-ness; typicality; the quality/essence of being [X] (as in “X-ness” or “X-like character”)SUPER BEAVER20rank/position

SUPER BEAVER “Rashisa” Music Video

With its fiery melody and powerful vocals that pierce the heart, this is a youth-boosting anthem from SUPER BEAVER! The lyrics, which depict the journey to find your true self and the process of discovering what matters most amid changing days, gently give listeners a push forward.

Released in April 2015, it was also chosen as the opening theme for the anime Barakamon.

Listen to it before diving into a new environment or when you’re losing confidence, and it’s sure to give you courage.

SUPER BEAVER’s soul-stirring performance will uplift you too—now, turn up the volume and give it a listen!

50%Ofisharu Higedan Dism21rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – 50% [Official Video]

As a pep song dedicated to people who tend to push themselves too hard in modern society, Official HIGE DANDism’s gentle message strikes a chord.

It speaks to us with a grand, gospel-tinged sound, encouraging us to face forward at our own pace without overexerting ourselves.

Written as the theme song for the film Cells at Work! released in December 2024, the piece gives voice to those living in an era where endless competition is the norm.

It also harmonizes beautifully with the film’s worldview and its message of “taking care of your own body.” It’s best enjoyed while relaxing in front of a smart speaker.

When you want to soothe a tired mind and body, when you feel like treating yourself kindly, this song will surely be by your side.