Japanese Music Entrance Song Rankings [2026]

YOAKENiziU78rank/position

NiziU(니쥬) 「YOAKE」 M/V

This is an ambitious song by NiziU that sings of the courage and hope to open a new door with a dazzling dawn.

Its powerful vocals and emotional melody brilliantly capture the tension and anticipation of taking a step into the unknown.

As the lead track of the album “AWAKE,” it began streaming in January 2025, and its expressive music video has also become a hot topic.

The release holds special significance in celebrating the group’s 5th anniversary, and a student support live performance at Universal Studios Japan is scheduled for March 2025.

It’s a song that gently yet powerfully pushes the backs of middle school students who, while feeling uneasy about changing environments, are ready to take a new step forward.

Baton RoadKANA-BOON79rank/position

KANA-BOON “Baton Road” Music Video

It’s one of KANA-BOON’s popular songs and the opening theme for the anime BORUTO.

With lyrics that shine a bright light on the future and an upbeat rhythm that blows away anxiety and nerves, it’s a perfect recommended song for starting a new high school life.

At dawn again today, with cherry blossoms dancingCHiCO with HoneyWorks80rank/position

In the dawn where cherry blossoms dance again today / CHiCO with HoneyWorks

The song “Kyou mo Sakura Mau Akatsuki ni” is a collaboration between singer CHiCO and the creator unit HoneyWorks.

It portrays someone who, while longing for a close friend now far away, begins taking steps toward the future.

With its bouncy beat, it naturally makes you want to sway as you listen.

The track is the opening theme for the anime Gintama, and the music video is a collaboration with the anime.

Be sure to check it out together.

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ChessboardOfisharu Higedan Dism81rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Chessboard [Official Video]

A perfect song for everyone embarking on a new chapter is Official HIGE DANDism’s “Chessboard.” Released for early streaming on August 9, 2023, it’s sure to deliver a heartfelt message just as the new school term begins.

As we traverse the chessboard of life, the lyrics ask where we should go and what we should aim for, yet still give us the courage to move forward.

It carries a warmth like a senior gently giving you a supportive push.

Lyrics that speak to each listener individually are Official HIGE DANDism at their best.

To you standing at the starting line of a new beginning—entrance into school—we send the courage to take your first step, along with the melody of “Chessboard.”

READY STEADY GOL’Arc〜en〜Ciel82rank/position

L’Arc～en～Ciel「READY STEADY GO」-Music Clip-

This song features a driving rock sound and a powerful message.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Fullmetal Alchemist, it captured the hearts of many listeners.

Released in February 2004, it was also included on the album SMILE, which came out in March of the same year.

Its energetic beat and catchy guitar riffs leave a strong impression, offering the courage to keep moving forward.

It’s a great recommendation for starting a new chapter in life or when you want to take on something new.

Be sure to listen to this heartfelt track packed with the appeal of L’Arc~en~Ciel.

Yo, you there, kid.Takehara Pisutoru83rank/position

Takahara Pistol / Hey, You Young Folks (Short Ver.)

The song “Yo, You Young People” by singer-songwriter Pistol Takehara carries a message from elders to the younger generation.

It tells you not to feel inferior by comparing yourself to others; you surely have something only you possess, so move forward staying true to yourself.

Its encouraging words are sure to give you courage.

It’s a track I especially recommend to new students who may be feeling anxious as they face a new environment.

flareSuperfly84rank/position

Superfly “Flare” (Music Video) — Theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Scarlet”

“Flare” is a song by Superfly, led by vocalist Shiho Ochi.

It was selected as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Scarlet and was also performed on the NHK New Year’s Eve music show Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

While many Superfly songs leave the impression of being powerful and soulful, “Flare” stands out with its soft, gentle tone.

Even so, Superfly’s characteristic fighting spirit remains unmistakable—you can feel a core strength within its tender atmosphere.

It gently embraces the anxieties you may feel as you start a new chapter in life.

When worry looms, listen to “Flare” and let it soothe you.

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