Japanese Music Entrance Song Rankings [2026]

Go your wayRyokushokushakai29rank/position

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Michi o Yuke' Official Video - Theme Song for 'First Penguin!'

Ryokuoushoku Shakai, a four-member rock band rapidly rising in popularity with their impactful name and pop sound.

The song, written as the theme for Nippon TV’s Wednesday drama “First Penguin!”, is a cheer anthem that gives you the courage to take on new challenges.

The message of self-transformation woven into the lyrics is sure to give a push to anyone trying to dive into a new environment despite their anxieties.

Released in November 2022, the track also features experimental touches, such as using pencils and can lids in the piano recording.

It’s a pop tune that will surely boost team spirit when listened to with classmates or club mates.

Starting Oversumika30rank/position

sumika / Starting Over [Music Video] - TV Anime “MIX MEISEI STORY: The Second Summer, Beyond the Sky” Opening Theme

Sumika is a rock band that’s especially popular among younger listeners, known for songs packed with ear-catching lyrics and melodies.

Their single, chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “MIX MEISEI STORY: The Second Summer, Beyond the Sky,” is a track whose rush and energy—kicking off right from the chorus—lift your spirits.

Released in June 2023, the song carries an uplifting message themed around new beginnings.

Its lyrics, calling out to those chasing their dreams, have the power to give a push during the school enrollment season.

It’s a powerful rock tune that adds vibrant color to the heated months.

meeting upM!LK31rank/position

M!LK – Meeting Up (Official Recording Video)

As you face a new chapter in life, it’s natural to wonder, “Will I be able to handle it?” In times like that, I recommend listening to M!LK’s “Machiawase.” Released ahead of the album in December 2025, this track was chosen as the campaign song for Nippon Cultural Broadcasting’s “~You’re Not Alone~ Cultural Broadcasting Exam Takers Support Campaign.” It also made waves when member Jinto Yoshida served as the campaign’s character.

With its warm sound driven by piano and strings, this is a cheering anthem that gently supports those striving toward their goals.

It’s there for you when you feel lonely, and it will stand by anyone stepping into a new environment.

On anxious nights or during your commute to school, why not take this song with you and take that first step?

It’s okayMarushii32rank/position

Marsi – It's Okay (Official Music Video)

A song by Marcy that resonates with many as an anthem giving you the courage to face forward.

Its refreshing melody and warm vocals are filled with a gentle push, as if someone is supporting you from behind.

Even when you feel like breaking, it conveys the importance of moving forward step by step while cherishing who you are, resulting in a track that stays close to the listener’s heart.

Released in March 2023, this piece was written for Pocari Sweat’s web movie “Our Now.” The refreshing song was also used in a TV commercial and is included on the album Candle.

It’s the perfect cheer song for spring, when new lives begin and people face anxieties about new environments.

SunMy Hair is Bad33rank/position

My Hair is Bad – Sun

It’s a heartwarming cheer song that gives you the courage to face the brilliance of youth.

The lyrics paint springlike scenes, beautifully capturing the hopes and anxieties of those taking a new step forward.

With My Hair is Bad’s characteristically powerful rock sound and warm vocals, it gently gives listeners a supportive push.

Released in March 2024, the song was written as the official MBS theme for the 96th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament (Senbatsu).

It’s a track I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone starting a new chapter or about to take an important step.

Brimming with hope, it conjures up the sound of brass bands echoing across the field and the sight of young people giving their all.

horizonback number34rank/position

back number – Horizon

A gem of a track by back number that gently stays close to your heart whenever you hit a wall in life.

Even amid the despair that feels like your dreams and hopes are collapsing, the lyrics portray the journey of looking inward and eventually finding light—sure to move you deeply.

This song is also known for being created in August 2020 for high school students after the Inter-High Championships were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

While affirming frustration and sorrow, it gives a sense of the view that awaits beyond overcoming them.

As you step into a new world at graduation, you may feel anxiety or loneliness.

In those moments, this song will wrap your pain in its embrace and give you the quiet courage to take that first step.

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE35rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

This is a track whose exhilarating guitar sound hints at the dawn of a new season.

The lyrics resonate deeply, not only celebrating the dazzling moments of youth but also affirming the anxieties, conflicts, and even bittersweet experiences that everyone carries.

Its warm message—encouraging us to love even our imperfect selves—will gently nudge new students forward as they navigate a mix of excitement and uncertainty.

Released in April 2024, the song was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Oblivion Battery.” It’s also known for winning the 66th Japan Record Awards, cementing its enduring popularity.

When you find yourself pausing in a new environment, thinking things might not go well, this is the kind of song you’ll want to keep close, like a good-luck charm.