Fight songs from the good old days! Showa-era classics you should listen to when starting school
When you take a step into a new environment, it’s reassuring to have music that gently gives you a push forward.Cheering songs born in the Showa era are filled with a timeless strength and warmth that resonate across generations.Their unadorned lyrics and straightforward melodies gently embrace the mix of anxiety and anticipation that comes with the school entrance season.In this article, we introduce a wide range of Showa masterpieces that are perfect for the milestone of starting school.Whether you want to revel in nostalgia or you’re part of a younger generation discovering Showa classics for the first time, we hope you’ll find a new favorite song!
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Cheer songs from the good old days! Showa-era classics you should listen to when starting school (11–20)
March of 365 StepsSuizenji Kiyoko
Known as a classic from the Showa era, this song gives listeners the courage and hope to take a new step in life.
Its lyrics carry the message that small daily efforts lead to great achievements—perfect for the mixed feelings of anxiety and anticipation that come with starting school.
Released in November 1968, the piece was widely loved and even chosen as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Championship.
With Kiyoko Suizenji’s bright, powerful vocals, it will gently encourage all who are embarking on a new chapter in life.
Life’s journeyMisora Hibari
Released in January 1970, this song was created as the theme for the film “Hana to Namida to Honoo” starring Hibari Misora and Shinichi Mori.
Celebrated as a classic of the Showa era, it is a gem that sings of courage and hope in the face of life’s hardships.
Hibari Misora’s powerful voice resonates deeply with listeners.
Since then, it has remained one of her signature songs, beloved by many.
It’s a piece I especially recommend to anyone stepping into a new environment and feeling anxiety or doubt.
Even when confronted with difficulties, it will give you the courage to keep moving forward on your own path.
YOUNG MAN (Y.M.C.A.)Saijō Hideki
This is a song that delivers an energetic, uplifting message.
Aimed at young people, it gives them the courage to pursue their dreams.
Hideki Saijo’s powerful vocals resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in February 1979, it held the No.
1 spot on the Oricon charts for five consecutive weeks and became a massive hit, selling 1.808 million copies.
This work is perfect for those starting a new chapter in life or standing at a crossroads.
It’s also ideal for boosting motivation or getting pumped up with friends.
Saijo’s passionate, heartfelt singing is sure to lift your spirits.
Don’t give up on your dreamsOkamura Takako
Known for its heartwarming lyrics and melody, Takako Okamura’s signature song gives a gentle push to those embarking on a new chapter, such as entering school.
Though originally written as a breakup song, its universal message resonates in many situations.
Released in 1987, the track was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s information program “Time 3” and as a commercial song for Musashi Prep School, earning broad support across generations.
Singing of passion for dreams and the courage to overcome hardships, this piece is perfect for anyone starting a new life.
As you step onto a new stage in life, why not listen to this song and draw strength from it?
There’s always tomorrowSakamoto Kyu
It’s a classic song that sings of the clumsiness and hope of youth.
It portrays the protagonist’s feelings in love and the courage to take on challenges without fearing failure.
Kyu Sakamoto’s warm vocals enhance its positive message.
Released in 1963, it later gained renewed attention when it was used in a Japan Coca-Cola commercial.
In 2002, it was also selected as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
It’s a recommended track for those stepping into a new environment or struggling with love.
Each listen is sure to stir up hope.
SOMEDAYSano Motoharu
A classic by Motoharu Sano that sings of the radiance of youth and hope for the future.
Its poetic lyrics capture the struggles of being young and a nostalgic longing for days gone by.
Released as a single in June 1981 and included on an album of the same name the following year, it gained renewed attention in 1989 when it was featured in a JR Tokai commercial.
Characterized by a Phil Spector–style Wall of Sound, it has been covered by many artists.
A recommended track for those stepping into a new environment or looking back on their past selves.
Cheer songs from the good old days! Showa-era classics you should listen to when you enroll (21–30)
Until today and from tomorrowyoshida takurou
Spring, when new chapters of life begin, brings not only excitement but also a touch of anxiety, doesn’t it? In moments like that, you may find yourself humming Takuro Yoshida’s classic.
Its unadorned words tracing the journey of life gently support you when you’re feeling lost.
Released as a single in July 1971, the song also appears on the album “Seishun no Uta” (Poem of Youth).
Many people may recognize it as an insert song in the film “Crayon Shin-chan: The Storm Called: The Adult Empire Strikes Back.” In August 2008, a monument featuring the song was erected at Hiroshima Shudo University, Yoshida’s alma mater—proof of how enduringly beloved it is.
This piece, which reminds you to walk at your own pace without rushing, will be a reassuring companion to all of you preparing to start school!