Japanese Music Entrance Song Rankings [2026]

possibilitySambomasutā8rank/position

Sambomaster “Possibility”

Many of you who have moved on to the next stage of education may be keenly feeling your infinite possibilities.

You can do anything—like throwing yourself into your studies or dedicating yourself to sports.

At the same time, possibility is something that disappears if you give up.

That very idea of possibility is what Sambomaster’s song “Kanousei” (“Possibility”) is about.

It’s also known for being the theme song of the movie “Biri Gyaru” (“Flying Colors”).

If you haven’t heard it yet, give it a listen right away.

Its fiery message is sure to lift your spirits.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem

RPGSEKAI NO OWARI9rank/position

SEKAI NO OWARI「RPG」

A fantastical song that instantly evokes the world of an RPG, this popular number by SEKAI NO OWARI continues to captivate listeners.

Released in May 2013, it was featured as the theme song for the film Crayon Shin-chan: Very Tasty! B-class Gourmet Survival!! and became a major talking point.

Characterized by its marching rhythm using a bass drum and hand cymbals, it has the power to lift the listener’s spirits.

With lyrics centered on friendship, bonds, and adventure, it’s also perfect as an encouraging anthem that gives you the courage to dive into new environments.

It’s a must-listen for anyone about to take a new step in life, such as entering school or graduating.

GOBUMP OF CHICKEN10rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN「GO」

It’s a song whose warm lyrics gently embrace the clumsiness and setbacks we encounter in life.

Included on BUMP OF CHICKEN’s February 2016 album “Butterflies,” it explores themes of life’s hardships, hope, and the strength to move forward.

Also featured in the TV commercials for the game Granblue Fantasy and as the opening theme for its anime adaptation, the track powerfully captures a grand and beautiful worldview.

Its dignified sound and lyrics, combining brightness with a touch of melancholy, resonate deeply and gently encourage those about to take a new step—an uplifting anthem of support.

WINDING ROADAyaka × Kobukuro11rank/position

Kobukuro – WINDING ROAD (Ayaka × Kobukuro)

Since its 2007 release, “WINDING ROAD” has cheered on countless new students, making it a perfect anthem for entrance ceremonies.

Co-written by singer-songwriter Ayaka and the musical duo Kobukuro, the song’s uplifting message and beautiful harmonies strongly support that first step into a new chapter.

For listeners embarking on a fresh start, the lyrics—teaching the importance of moving toward the future one step at a time—will surely resonate.

Especially in moments when anxiety and anticipation are intertwined, this song will give you the courage to carry on.

Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki12rank/position

Tohku Tohku

Since its release in 1992, “Tōku Tōku” has been cherished as a classic school entrance song.

It’s a track that Noriyuki Makihara wrote for a friend living in a distant town.

While it may include terms unfamiliar to teenagers—like pay phones—the song’s portrayal of beautiful friendship makes it easy to relate to.

Incidentally, Makihara has recorded the song twice as a self-cover.

It can be fun to compare those versions.

Also worth noting: a track that sampled this song drew attention at the end of 2022.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem

Before the departureWANIMA13rank/position

WANIMA 'Before the Departure' OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

This is a support song from WANIMA dedicated to everyone taking a new step forward.

It warmly conveys the greatness of getting back up again and again, and the importance of turning past failures and regrets into strength for the future.

WANIMA’s hallmark upbeat sound overflows with a refreshing energy that makes your body sway before you know it.

Released digitally in April 2021, the song was also chosen as the theme for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks’ “Fight! Kyushu” project.

It’s a track that gently gives a push to those starting a new chapter or facing challenges right now.

MasterpieceSCANDAL14rank/position

SCANDAL “Masterpiece” / Masterpiece – Music Video

A SCANDAL track whose powerful rock sound resonates in the heart.

Featured as the ending theme for STV’s show “Netsuretsu! Hot Sand!” and in a commercial for Fashion World Nishimura, this song was released in March 2019 on their own private label, her.

With lyrics about the courage to take on challenges and the importance of self-expression, it’s sure to encourage anyone feeling anxious ahead of entrance ceremonies or a new chapter in life.

The blend of powerful vocals and energetic performance makes it a perfect anthem to give you the courage to dive into a new environment.

In this season when spring is in the air, it’s a song we especially recommend to those taking their first steps forward.