Popular Cheer Songs [Japanese Music Ranking]

Shineieiri reo57rank/position

Leo Ieiri – "Shine"

Leo Ieiri’s “Shine” is a perfect anthem for the important milestone of graduation.

While the melody is bright, the wistful strings express both the hope for the future and the anxiety that comes with it.

Her powerful vocals give confidence and courage to anyone embarking on a new start.

This song also earned Ieiri the Best New Artist Award at the 54th Japan Record Awards and has received widespread support.

As you begin the new path of graduation, why not listen to “Shine”?

Peter PanYuuri58rank/position

Yuuri “Peter Pan” Official Music Video (Full)

This is a moving song that expresses a steadfast resolve to chase one’s dreams.

It brilliantly captures the strength to stand by one’s convictions despite social criticism and the purity to envision ideals free from conventions.

Written and composed by Yuuri, this J-pop rock track is marked by a funky backing and a powerful vocal performance.

Since its digital-only release in August 2020, it has resonated with many listeners, and starting in April 2021 it was also used as a corporate commercial song by DIP Corporation.

It’s a track that gently encourages those who want to keep pursuing their dreams and those seeking a path that’s true to themselves.

Tomorrow, again[Alexandros]59rank/position

[Alexandros] – Tomorrow, Again (MV)

While their signature song “Wataridori” also carries a message that really hits home, the track “Ashita, Mata” seeps in gently—and it might just let all those pent-up feelings burst out and make you cry.

Released in 2017, it was also featured in a Clorets commercial.

Its appeal lies in lyrics that resonate deeply with people carrying various struggles or emotional wounds—those feeling defeated by their current situation, heartbroken, or troubled by relationships.

It’s a song that slowly spreads through your heart, offering a sense of comfort and reassurance.

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HeroAmuro Namie60rank/position

Hero – Namie Amuro (Full)

This is the 45th single by Namie Amuro, a songstress who produced numerous hits and defined the Heisei era.

Chosen as NHK’s theme song for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and Paralympics, it is also known as a national cheer anthem.

Its hope-filled lyrics and catchy, powerful melody offer a warmth that feels like a helping hand when you’re on the verge of giving up.

During her special appearance on the 2017 Kohaku Uta Gassen, it achieved a high viewership rating of 48.4% and moved many people’s hearts.

It’s highly recommended for the yutori generation as a song that gives you courage for tomorrow.

At all times.Makihara Noriyuki61rank/position

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “No Matter What” (Music Video) [3rd Single] (1991) Noriyuki Makihara/donnatokimo [No. 1]

An anthem that reminds you of the importance of being yourself when you feel like you’re losing who you are.

The lyrics, which encourage you to walk the path you believe in without being trapped by others’ gazes, gently push you forward as you dive into a new environment.

Released in June 1991 as a single by Noriyuki Makihara, this classic has sold over 1.67 million copies.

Written as the theme song for the film “No Problems on the Employment Front,” it was also selected as the entrance march for the 1992 National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

Its universally known melody continues to be loved across generations.

Take a break from packing—or play it on your first morning in your new home.

As you embark on a new life filled with both excitement and uncertainty, give it a listen.

Fukuwarai (a traditional Japanese “lucky laugh” face-making game)Takahashi Yuu62rank/position

Yu Takahashi - Fukuwarai

Yu Takahashi has many songs that give you the strength to keep going when times are tough and help you stay positive.

This track is exactly one of those: it conveys, in a straightforward way, that smiles are a universal language that transcends linguistic barriers.

The hope that one person’s smile will inspire another’s, creating a happy chain that spreads across the world, really resonates.

Released in February 2011 as Takahashi’s third single, this song became widely loved as the CM song for Tokyo Metro’s “TOKYO HEART.” For some reason, Yu Takahashi’s music brings a deep sense of reassurance—it makes you feel like you have an unfailing ally.

Listening to it gives you that comforting feeling, like a dose of nourishment for the heart—an empowering number.

StargazeSixTONES63rank/position

SixTONES – Stargaze [YouTube ver.]

This is a rock number written and produced by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS, sparking a chemical reaction with the members’ passionate vocals.

Released in September 2025 as SixTONES’ 16th single, it has also become beloved as the support song for NTV’s 45th All Japan High School Quiz Championship.

Set to a driving band sound, it portrays pushing forward by turning even doubt and impatience into strength, giving listeners a powerful push on the back.

It’s perfect for those times after a long holiday when you just can’t get motivated, or in moments when May blues weigh on your heart.

Let this ultimate cheer, packed with energy to break through the status quo, blow away your gloomy mood!