Recommended cheer-up songs for people in their 30s: classic and popular Japanese hits

Tracks of HopeSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Tracks of Hope [Live at ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL, 2018]

A gem of a message song woven with hope for the future and memories etched deep in the heart.

Created by Southern All Stars in September 1990 as an insert song for the film Inamura Jane, this piece gives you the courage to face forward while holding the past close.

It was also used as the theme song for Fuji TV programs Mezamashi TV and FNS 27-Hour Television.

Wrapped in a refreshing melody and warm lyrics, why not take a moment to recall nostalgic memories and the people you cherish? Adopted as the departure melody at JR Chigasaki Station, this song has blended into everyday life and continues to soothe the hearts of many.

Sakura, flutterSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Sakura, Hirari [Official Visualizer]

A heartwarming message song by Southern All Stars that portrays a gentle light of hope, themed around cherry blossoms shining in the spring sunshine.

Through the fleeting yet beautiful cherry blossoms, it tenderly sings of loss, rebirth, and wishes for the future.

The melody is as light as a spring breeze, filled with a warmth that seems to stay close to the listener’s heart.

Released digitally on January 1, 2025, this work was unveiled as the lead single from the album “THANK YOU SO MUCH.” The gently flowing acoustic guitar and soft synthesizer tones create a pleasant atmosphere that evokes the arrival of spring.

Whether you need a moment to breathe in the midst of busy days or are about to take a new step forward, it will surely become a source of comfort for your heart.

Stars on EarthNakajima Miyuki

Stars on the Ground / Miyuki Nakajima [Official]

This song is imbued with a warm gaze and deep respect for people who usually remain out of the spotlight.

Miyuki Nakajima portrays those who strive to live in places where no one looks, using beautiful metaphors.

It is an ode to unsung heroes who keep making efforts in various places, shining like stars in everyday life.

Released in July 2000, the piece was chosen as the theme song for NHK’s documentary program Project X: Challengers, and together with the program’s moving content, it deeply resonated with many viewers.

It set a record by staying on Oricon’s Weekly Singles Chart for 174 consecutive weeks.

It is a song that gives you a powerful push forward in those moments when the pressures of daily life make you want to stop.

That’s important.Daiji MAN Burazāzu Bando

That's important.

A powerful, encouraging song that lifts your spirits when times are tough or you feel like giving up.

Its lyrics preach the importance of not giving up, and the strong yet approachable melody resonates deeply.

With the warmth of a friend giving you a gentle push forward, this song has become a source of support for many.

Released by Daiji MAN Brothers Band in August 1991, the track was used as the ending theme for “Sports Frontier” and also served as the theme song for “Hō-chan no Yamada Katsutenai Television.” It topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for five consecutive weeks and became a massive hit, selling an impressive 1.8 million copies.

When you find yourself troubled or at a standstill in life, listening to this song will surely give you the courage to move forward.

Don’t give up on your dreamsOkamura Takako

Takako Okamura “Don’t Give Up on Your Dreams” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

This is a supportive song that gently portrays the feelings of someone about to set off on a new journey.

Takako Okamura’s warm voice, singing about the importance of holding on to your passion for your dreams, quietly gives listeners a push forward.

Along with its melodious tune, the lyrics—filled with kindness and consideration for others—resonate deeply.

Included on the album “Andantino a tempo,” the song was released in February 1987 and was used in commercials for Musashi Prep School and as an insert song for “Netto Koshien.” In 2005, it was also chosen as the theme song for the film “Gyakkyō Nine.” It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you’re about to take a new step or find yourself at a crossroads in life.

ONE−for the winNEWS

ONE -for the win- (Cover ver.)

It’s a powerful song by NEWS that became the theme song for the Soccer World Cup and turned into a huge hit! The passionate melody and lyrics are striking, and just listening to it gives you energy.

Released in June 2014, the single sold 183,000 copies in its first week and marked their 16th consecutive No.

1 single since their debut.

It’s a perfect cheer-up song not only for soccer fans, but also for times when you want to do your best at work or studying.

Hearing NEWS’s vocals naturally gives you the courage to look forward.

It’s also a great recommendation for anyone who wants to cheer on people who are giving it their all.

migratory bird[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

Even if you’re not very familiar with [Alexandros]’s songs, I think many people know at least this one.

This track, which lets you fully savor the beauty that is one of their greatest charms, famously starts with a guitar-only intro before the bass and drums come in.

The A and B sections progress relatively evenly, and then it all surges in the chorus—such a cool structure.

The lyrics, of course, are positive, singing of encouragement and resolve, making it feel like a great way to start the day.

Released in June 2015, the song was also used in a car commercial and has been loved by a wide audience.