Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-Pop Artists Among Junior High School Students [2026]

sparkleFuji Kaze64rank/position

Fujii Kaze – Kirari (Official Video)

This is Mr.

Fujii Kaze’s sixth digital-only single, released in May 2021 by HEHN RECORDS/Universal Music.

It was also used in the commercial for Honda’s fully redesigned VEZEL, so many people have likely heard it.

With its comfortable rhythm, it’s one of the tracks well-suited to mass formation performances where formations change in sync with the timing.

In addition, the song’s uniquely refreshing and near-futuristic feel seems poised to add contrast and dynamism to a sports day event.

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kojifumi

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Zankyo SankaAimer65rank/position

Aimer「Zankyosanka」MUSIC VIDEO（Demon Slayer:Kimetsu no Yaiba Entertainment District Arc Theme Song）

A work whose appeal lies in the grand worldview woven by its visuals and music.

The powerful message in the lyrics—“overcoming past pain and moving toward the future”—harmonizes beautifully with the dark, epic melody.

Aimer’s distinctive vocals resonate with deep emotion and stir the heart.

It was pre-released digitally in December 2021, followed by a CD single in January 2022.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Entertainment District Arc, it drew major attention, including topping two categories on Billboard Japan after its digital release.

It’s perfect when you need the courage to pursue your ideals or to fire yourself up.

Listen to this while training, and you’ll feel the strength to push past your limits.

Otona Blueatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu66rank/position

ATARASHII GAKKO! – Otona Blue (Official Music Video)

When it comes to dance music hugely popular among junior high schoolers, this track is the one.

Its signature head-shaking choreography stood out, and TikTok blew up with posts imitating the dance.

The lyrics portray the gap between a mature outward appearance and a childlike inner self.

It’s a song that reflects young people’s feelings, expressing a desire to connect with others heart-to-heart.

Released in February 2020, it has won multiple awards, including the Grand Prize at the TikTok First Half Trend Awards 2023.

It also opened the 2023 NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It’s a perfect pick for filming dance videos with friends or for a quick mood boost.

rainbowAqua Timez67rank/position

Aqua Timez “Niji” Music Video (Theme song for the drama Gokusen Season 3)

Aqua Timez’s “Niji” gently wraps a heart on the verge of breaking and gives it a powerful push forward.

Released in May 2008 as their sixth single, it became widely loved as the theme song for the drama Gokusen: The Third Series, starring Yukie Nakama.

The melody, which fuses sweeping strings with a powerful band sound, has a refreshing clarity that feels like your view opening up just by listening.

Its million certification for surpassing one million downloads also speaks to its long-lasting support.

When you feel lonely studying for exams or frustrated by results in your club activities, give this song a listen.

The straightforward message in the chorus will pour fresh energy into your anxious heart and help you keep going.

DynamiteBTS68rank/position

BTS (방탄소년단) ‘Dynamite’ Official MV (Choreography ver.)

BTS’s “Dynamite” captivates music fans around the world.

The song blends hip-hop with flowing English lyrics, giving it a light, funky feel.

It’s become a hot topic not only on TV and in the streets but also on social media, and it has surpassed 100 million views on YouTube.

It’s so catchy that even if you don’t understand the words, your body picks up the rhythm, and it might just brighten your morning walk to school.

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN69rank/position

I tried dancing 'Sugar Song and Bitter Step' in front of the Eiffel Tower

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN is a rock band known for their powerful vocals and high-level musicianship.

Their 2015 release “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” is a danceable track packed with vibrant charm.

The lively guitar tones in the intro make you want to step along.

Its refreshing melody line, carried by a rhythmic tempo, will resonate with you.

Whether you go for technical choreography or arrange it for beginners, this uptempo song will liven up any school or cultural festival!

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mutō

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CHE.R.RYYUI70rank/position

CHE.R.RY

Let me introduce a song that refreshingly portrays a bittersweet spring romance.

Delicately expressing the feelings of unrequited love conveyed through cell phone emails, this track by YUI gently sings about the beginning of love—something everyone has experienced at least once.

With warmth, it depicts the protagonist, who isn’t good with emojis, having their heart skip a beat at messages from their crush and fretting over the back-and-forth of replies with pure sincerity.

Released in March 2007, the song resonated with many and was later included on the album “CAN’T BUY MY LOVE.” It was also used as the ending theme for the anime “ReLIFE: Final Arc.” It’s a perfect cheer song for those experiencing their first love in a new environment, or for anyone ready to take a new step forward with the arrival of spring.