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

Kitearashi29rank/position

ARASHI – Kite [Official Music Video]

Arashi is a five-member idol group with a huge national following, whose members are also active across a wide range of fields individually.

Their 58th single, “Kite,” which was used as the theme song for NHK’s broadcasts of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, also drew attention for being written by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu.

Its lyrics, depicting youthful days of growth buoyed by warm cheers, may well serve as an anthem for students who are currently dedicated to their club activities.

It’s a moving number whose powerful message is sure to become a light illuminating the future.

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Hoshino Takashi

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YELLikimonogakari30rank/position

[Chorus] YELL (Mixed Choir in Three Parts)

Ikimono-gakari’s “YELL” is a song well-suited for choir performances at graduation ceremonies.

Its warm melody and lyrics that give courage to step into a new future will become an irreplaceable memory for junior high school students.

Embracing the time spent together, this song gently sets the scene for the moment of a new beginning.

Since its release in 2009, this piece has continued to be sung at many graduation ceremonies, encouraging all who listen and empowering them to take a positive step forward.

User ManualNishino Kana31rank/position

Kana Nishino 'Torisetsu' MV (Short Ver.)

A pop tune that humorously captures a girl’s feelings! The instruction-manual-like lyrics feel fresh and really convey the delicate emotions of women.

Kana Nishino’s soft vocals charmingly portray the complexities of a woman’s heart.

Released in September 2015, the song was also used as the theme for the film “No Longer Heroine” released the same year.

Popular at weddings, this track might even help men better understand women’s feelings.

It could be nice for couples to listen together and reaffirm each other’s feelings.

Bling-Bang-Bang-BornCreepy Nuts32rank/position

Creepy Nuts “Bling-Bang-Bang-Born” × TV Anime “MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES” Collaboration Music Video #BBBB Dance

Produced as the opening theme for the second season of the TV anime “MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES,” this track became a global hit as the dance synced to the opening video went viral on social media.

Its biggest draw is the exhilarating message of believing in your own “raw” power and breaking through conventions.

The protagonist, who relies solely on his muscles in a world of magic, mirrors the way Creepy Nuts themselves have honed their skills and carved their path.

It’s the ultimate anthem of support that affirms your individuality—perfect for when you’ve lost confidence by comparing yourself to others.

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN33rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

BUMP OF CHICKEN’s signature song “Tentai Kansoku” (Stargazing).

Watching this music video reminds me of how I used to look up at the sky over and over with the telescope we had at home, almost every night.

Even though it’s a song from the very beginning of the 21st century, it’s a timeless classic!

New Treasure IslandSakanakushon34rank/position

Shin Takarajima / Sakanaction SIT Band - Sapporo International Information High School Wind Ensemble

This is a lively song brimming with children’s excitement for unknown adventures.

Created by Sakanaction, it was produced in September 2015 as the theme song for the film “Bakuman.” Its retro synthesizer sound and upbeat rhythm are striking, and the production that evokes the late 1980s to early 1990s makes you feel as if you’ve slipped back in time.

Giving you the courage to take a bold step into the future, this track is perfect for a school sports day entrance scene or a dance number! It will fill the venue with a bright mood and put smiles on everyone’s faces.

Curtain callYuuri35rank/position

Curtain Call by Yuuri: My Hero Academia Special Music Video / My Hero Academia Season 7 Cour 2 Opening Theme Anime MV

This is a song by Yuuri featuring an exhilarating, up-tempo rock melody and lyrics filled with hope as two people strive to understand each other.

It powerfully and directly sings of the protagonist’s strong resolve to keep pursuing the path they believe in, while showing empathy toward those they stand opposed to.

A rousing cheer song that gives you a push to chase dreams together with teammates at sports days and athletic festivals, it was released in July 2024 and chosen as the opening theme for Season 7, Cour 2 of the popular anime My Hero Academia.

It’s a track we especially recommend to everyone competing with friends, helping one another, and giving their all toward their goals.