Japanese Music Entrance Song Rankings [2026]

Que sera, seraMrs. GREEN APPLE36rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Que Sera Sera” Official Music Video

An anthem brimming with kindness and vitality has been born.

This song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE is a warm work that gently nudges those taking a new step forward.

With a refreshing melody and a comfortable rhythm, it sings of self-affirmation and the courage to take on challenges.

While acknowledging the hardships and anxieties of life, it conveys—filled with deep affection—the importance of keeping your head up and continuing to move forward.

Released in April 2023 as the theme song for the TV drama “At Least on Sunday Nights,” it went on to win the Japan Record Award that same year.

It is a heartwarming track that stands by those starting a new chapter, those at a crossroads, and everyone who lives each day to the fullest.

Mela!Ryokushokushakai37rank/position

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Mela!' Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Mela!

Ryokuoushoku Shakai has delivered the perfect track for this season when excitement and anxiety mix in the spring air.

With its powerful guitar riffs and catchy melody, this song is an uplifting anthem that gives you the courage to dive into a new environment.

The lyrics, which sing of the desire to “become a hero,” carry a strong wish to be someone’s support.

Released digitally in April 2020 and later included on the album SINGALONG, the track was also featured in the commercial song for Dariya’s “Palty Coloring,” earning love from a wide audience.

It’s a must-listen for those starting a new chapter in life, or for anyone who wants to cheer on new students.

Dear, boyHump Back38rank/position

Hump Back – “Dear, Boy” Music Video

This song by Hump Back, a three-piece girls band from Osaka, is a heartfelt message to everyone who keeps chasing their dreams.

Its passionate lyrics, urging the self who’s about to forget a once-held dream that it’s not over yet, strike a powerful chord with listeners.

Carried by a simple yet powerful rock sound, and highlighted by Momoko Hayashi’s straight, earnest vocals, this track was their major-label debut single released in June 2018, and it was also used as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Buzz Rhythm 02.” It’s the perfect song to listen to when parting ways with friends after graduation or when you feel anxious about a new challenge.

It will steady a wavering heart and give you a firm push forward.

OtonokeCreepy Nuts39rank/position

Creepy Nuts – Otonoke [Official MV] [Dandadan Opening]

A track characterized by a distinctive sense of weightless groove and lyrics that overturn hip-hop conventions.

Released digitally in October 2024, it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Dandadan.” DJ Matsunaga’s delicate production and R-Shitei’s powerful rap fuse into a memorable, high-energy tune.

The lyrics, which depict music clinging to people like a haunting apparition dwelling in the heart, also carry philosophical elements that invite reflection on the relationship between self and others.

It’s a song to play when you need the courage to jump into a new environment or when you want to face yourself.

Follow MeE-girls40rank/position

E-Girls / Follow Me ～Short Version～

E-girls, who blazed through the Heisei era with their overwhelming dance performances.

Released in October 2012, this track is a pop dance number that lifts your spirits just by listening.

It was featured in a Samantha Thavasa commercial and as the theme song for “Onegai! Ranking,” debuting at No.

2 on the Oricon charts.

The uplifting lyrics and bright sound make you feel as if you’re soaring toward the future.

Be sure to listen to this anthem and charge up your courage!

SUNHoshino Gen41rank/position

Gen Hoshino – SUN (Official Video)

It’s a masterpiece with a bright, forward-looking melody and a refreshing rhythm that resonates pleasantly.

Released in May 2015 as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Kokoro ga Pokitto ne,” Gen Hoshino’s work is a warm track that incorporates elements of ’70s dance classics and disco.

The song also contains an homage to Michael Jackson, weaving a positive message into its joy-filled tone.

The music video, directed by Akira Sekine, features striking dance scenes choreographed by MIKIKO.

It’s the perfect encouragement song for anyone taking their first step in a new environment or hoping to start a new chapter with a bright outlook.

SignalWANIMA42rank/position

WANIMA “Signal” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

As you embark on your high school life, some of you may feel not only excitement but also anxiety.

In times like that, why not listen to WANIMA’s “Signal” to fire yourself up? Featured on their major-label first full-length album “Everybody!!,” this track was released in January 2018.

It was created for an NHK project to perform with 1,000 members of the 18-year-old generation, and it was also used as the theme song for Lotte’s “SOU” commercial featuring Suzu Hirose.

Its message—that even if you’re not fully formed yet, it’s enough to stand shoulder to shoulder with your friends and move forward—will give a powerful push to your back as you stand at the starting line.

It’s a song that supplies the energy you need to enjoy the days ahead to the fullest.