Ranking of Popular Japanese Pop (J-POP) Artists Among Elementary School Students [2026]

IchibanboshiSnow Man22rank/position

Snow Man “Ichibanboshi” Rec Video

Ichibanboshi is a cheer for elementary schoolers who keep trying, even when they struggle or pause along the way.

It was released in 2022 by the male idol group Snow Man.

The lyrics, which encourage people working hard toward their dreams and goals, resonate deeply.

Along with warm, harmony-rich choruses that convey the group’s bond, the song will give you energy.

It’s filled with a gentle message that supports elementary schoolers devoted to studying, club activities, or hobbies.

Give it a listen especially when it’s hard to look forward or when you’re feeling down.

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mutō

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365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB4823rank/position

[MV full] 365 Nichi no Kamihikōki / AKB48 [Official]

If an upper-elementary school child is trying karaoke for the first time, AKB48’s “365-Day Paper Airplane” is a great pick.

Its gentle, old-school folk-style melody is pleasant and easy for anyone to hum along to.

Chosen as the theme song for the 2015 NHK morning drama series “Asa ga Kita,” it became beloved by many.

How about singing it at karaoke together with everyone, putting in the kind of strength that feels like taking a first step toward your dreams? The big chorus in the hook will create a special moment where kids can feel their bond with friends.

Deer-Colored DaysKanoko Noko (CV: Megumi Han), Koshiko Tora (CV: Saki Fujita), Koshi Anko (CV: Rui Tanabe), Bashame Meme (CV: Fuka Izumi)24rank/position

TV anime “Shikanoko Nokonoko Koshitantan” OP theme “Shika-iro Days” Special Anime MV

How about captivating everyone’s attention with a high-energy anime pop track packed with an unforgettable, punchy rhythm and plenty of surreal wordplay? This song is performed by Shika-bu, a character unit featuring popular voice actors Megumi Han, Saki Fujita, Rui Tanabe, and Fuka Izumi.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Shikanoko Nokonoko Koshitantan,” it was released on CD in August 2024.

The comedic moves timed to the intro went viral on social media both in Japan and overseas.

With easy-to-learn choreography that makes a big impact, it’s perfect for kids to enjoy dancing at school sports festivals.

Let’s create a lively, fun stage that will make everyone watching smile!

MORNIING SUNEXILE B HAPPY25rank/position

[Sports Day Dance] MORNING SUN / EXILE B HAPPY (Easy Choreography Video)

This song by EXILE B HAPPY is a cheer anthem that shines bright and energizing like the morning sun.

It was released digitally ahead of time in January 2024 and then on CD in May.

Based on the concept of “supporting children’s dreams through dance and music,” it speaks to us about continuing to move forward while facing our struggles.

With a danceable, catchy tempo, it’s sure to get everyone fired up at school sports festivals! A choreography video is also available on LDH’s YouTube channel, so everyone can practice and dance with full energy.

Elementary school students who are feeling troubled—why not listen to this song and find some courage?

Happinessarashi26rank/position

ARASHI – Happiness [Official Live Video]

How about livening up your flag dance with an energetic pop number that everyone’s heard? This song by the national favorite group Arashi is a cheer anthem filled with a positive spirit about overcoming hardships and moving forward into the future.

Released in September 2007 as their 20th single, it was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Yamada Taro Monogatari,” starring group members Kazunari Ninomiya and Sho Sakurai.

It’s also included on classic compilations like “5×10 All the BEST! 1999-2009.” The sparkling, guitar-forward melody is a perfect match for a sports day held under a blue sky.

Paired with perfectly synchronized flag movements, it’s sure to give courage to everyone watching.

MiracleGReeeeN27rank/position

GReeeeN – Kiseki

The famous song “Kiseki,” which became a huge hit after being selected as the theme song for the TBS drama “ROOKIES,” depicting delinquent high schoolers growing through high school baseball, was released as the seventh single by the four-member vocal group GReeeeN.

In 2009, it was also played as the entrance march at the opening ceremony of the 81st National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

It’s a karaoke favorite that gets both kids and adults excited.

Everyone feels shy singing in front of others at first, but let’s pick the upbeat “Kiseki” and get everyone hyped together!

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miyabi

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fireworks (launched into the sky)DAOKO × Yonezu Kenshi28rank/position

DAOKO × Kenshi Yonezu 'Uchiage Hanabi' MUSIC VIDEO

I imagine many people feel like listening to this when summer comes around.

This track is a collaboration between the rapper DAOKO and the singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu.

It was featured as the theme song for the animated film “Fireworks, Should We See It from the Side or the Bottom?”.

The sound arrangement has a romantic feel that highlights the vocals of DAOKO and Yonezu, making it a very pleasant listen.

The nostalgic world depicted in the lyrics tightens your chest with emotion.

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Araki Jakkan

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