Japanese Music Entrance Song Rankings [2026]

Ten Thousand Cheers, A Thousand ChantsRADWIMPS29rank/position

RADWIMPS – Banzai Thousand Chants [Official Live Video from “ANTI ANTI GENERATION TOUR 2019”]

RADWIMPS delivered a cheer song created together with 18-year-olds.

Filled with both anxiety and hope for an unseen future, this piece—woven with Yojiro Noda’s resonant words and melodies—gently gives a push to those about to take a new step forward.

It was first performed on a special NHK program in October 2018 and later included on the album ANTI ANTI GENERATION released that December.

The stage, shared with 1,000 18-year-olds gathered from across the country, became a moving moment born from the real voices of youth.

It’s a song we hope not only students striving toward their dreams, but everyone starting a new chapter will listen to.

It will fill you with the courage to face forward and begin walking.

Go your wayRyokushokushakai30rank/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 Oversumika31rank/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.

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.

The Beginningayaka33rank/position

Ayaka / Beginning Time Music Video

Here’s a song I especially want you to hear if you’re feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety about starting life in a new environment.

It’s a track from singer-songwriter Ayaka’s album “The beginning,” released in February 2012.

Her warm vocals and the heartfelt melody will gently nudge you forward as you take a new step.

The message—giving you the courage to overcome sorrow and hardship and keep moving ahead—will surely become a source of strength for you.

Singing about the importance of living true to yourself, this piece features lyrics that resonate deeply, making it the perfect cheer-up song for anyone about to embark on a new chapter.

Mashirosumika34rank/position

sumika / Mashiro [Music Video] - Ending theme for the drama “Pocket ni Bōken wo Tsumekonde” (Packing Adventures in Your Pocket)

This song is characterized by a driving, exhilarating melody that cheers on new beginnings.

Released by sumika in December 2023, it was written as the ending theme for the drama “Packing Adventure into Your Pocket.” The lyrics capture the mixed feelings of anticipation and anxiety that come with a new life full of limitless possibilities, gently encouraging those about to start school.

Kenta Kataoka’s warm vocals are sure to give listeners the courage to take a new step forward.

The title, inspired by Mashiro Town, the setting of the drama, is memorable as well.

Bring it on, spring.non35rank/position

[Official Music Video] Non – I’ll Stand to Face Spring

A heartwarming rock number that sings of youthful passion and the courage to take a new step forward.

Non wrote the lyrics, crafting an energetic anthem that blows away the stifling feeling of everyday life.

With refreshing guitar tones and powerful drum beats, it’s a perfect song for spring—the season when life begins.

Released digitally in January 2025, the track finally saw an official audio release after being performed at a solo concert.

It gently supports new students brimming with anxiety and excitement, as well as anyone about to embark on a new chapter.

Non’s clear, translucent vocals and the song’s positive message truly resonate.