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A roundup of upbeat Japanese songs that get you moving

There are times when you want to get pumped up with music—like during a drive, when you want to hype up a karaoke session, or right before studying! In this article, we’ll introduce songs that are perfect for getting you in a lively, upbeat mood.

When you hear “songs that get you hyped,” what kind of tracks come to mind? Many people might think of uptempo songs, but even if the tempo isn’t that fast, there are tracks with a comfortable beat that still get you moving! We’ve picked out a variety of groove-worthy songs in this article, so find your favorite track and have fun!

Upbeat J-Pop: A roundup of songs you can groove to (31–40)

JUMP with chayRIP SLYME

This pop tune, a collaboration with singer-songwriter chay, sparks an irresistibly bright chemical reaction.

True to its title, it delivers a thrilling sense that makes you want to “jump,” paired with an uplifting message that gently propels listeners forward.

Released in July 2015 as part of a triple A-side single, it was also included on the album “10.” In addition to serving as the theme song for Fuji TV’s “ENGEI Grand Slam,” it was featured in GU’s web magazine campaign, and its fashion-infused music video drew attention as well.

It’s a vibrant track that naturally brings a smile and courage when you want to lift your spirits and take a new step forward.

Tokyo Shandy Rendezvous feat. KAF, TsumikiMAISONdes

[239] [feat. KAF, Tsumiki] Tokyo Shandy Rendezvous / MAISONdes
Tokyo Shandy Rendezvous feat. KAF, TsumikiMAISONdes

Tokyo Shandy Rendezvous, used as the ending theme for the 2022 version of the anime Urusei Yatsura.

Released in 2022 by MAISONdes, which hosts a variety of artists, the song features vocals by virtual singer KAF.

It unfolds a dramatic story depicting a romance that doesn’t quite go as hoped.

A lively melody rides over a funk-tinged beat with an urban vibe that will get your body moving.

KAF’s cute vocals, which candidly express a girl’s true feelings, make this a soothing number.

Give it a listen—an upbeat dance track that conjures the image of a city nightscape.

Replace ‘i’ with ‘you’furenzu

FREENZ “I You” TV Tokyo Drama 24 ‘What Did You Eat Yesterday?’ ending theme
Replace 'i' with 'you'furenzu

Friends’ song, which portrays the small happinesses of everyday life, is crafted as a mid-tempo city pop track.

Released in April 2019, the song was written as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s Drama 24 series “What Did You Eat Yesterday?”.

Its melody evokes a gentle yet nostalgic atmosphere, urging listeners to cherish the present days while reflecting on the future and their relationships.

It has a light, buoyant feel that puts a spring in your step.

Listening to this song conjures up scenes where the small happenings of daily life blossom into love and joy, leaving your heart warmed.

Limit-Break x SurvivorHikawa Kiyoshi

Kiyoshi Hikawa / Limit-Break x Survivor – from the DVD “Kiyoshi Hikawa Special Concert 2018: Kiyoshiko no Yoru Vol. 18” [Official]
Limit-Break x SurvivorHikawa Kiyoshi

When you want the drive to vault over a massive wall, “Limit-Break x Survivor” is just the thing.

It’s a single released in 2017 by singer Kiyoshi Hikawa, an energizing number chosen as the opening theme for the anime Dragon Ball Super.

The song literally breaks through the image of Hikawa, who had been known for singing enka, and its lyrics, which suggest limitless possibilities, will get you pumped up! With its groove and momentum, this track is sure to power you through any limit-breaking moment!

weeeekNEWS

NEWS – weeeek [Official Music Video]
weeeekNEWS

NEWS is an idol group that keeps evolving as they overcome countless trials.

Their seventh single was released in November 2007 and drew attention for being written by GReeeeN.

From the playful call-and-response in the intro, the song bursts into a fast-paced rock sound that instantly lifts your spirits.

While it sings about the everyday reality from Monday to Sunday and a vague anxiety about the future, its irresistible brightness seems to laugh those worries away.

The track was also used in a “Crymson / RUSS-K” commercial and, together with the album “pacific,” reached No.

1 on the charts simultaneously.

It’s a song that revitalizes a work-weary heart and gives you the energy to face tomorrow—truly like an energy drink in musical form!

Upbeat Japanese songs. A collection of various tracks you can groove to (41–50)

JOINTRIP SLYME

With a sprightly piano intro and a bouncy beat, this track heralds the start of a joyous, heart-lifting time.

Centered on the exhilaration and togetherness of people meeting and connecting, the members’ tight-knit mic relay creates a warm groove that feels like an easygoing conversation among close friends.

Released in June 2003 as their seventh single, it was featured in an NTT DoCoMo Melody Call commercial and also served as a bridge to the album “TIME TO GO.” Put it on during a drive with friends or a house party and the vibe is sure to get even more fun.

It’s perfect for those moments when you want to soak in happy feelings and add a splash of color to everyday life.

superstarCharisma.com

Charisma.com – Superstar (Official Music Video)
superstarCharisma.com

A brand-new track from Charisma.com, released in November 2024.

It’s a cool electro hip-hop number that sharply captures the self-expression and loneliness of people in their forties.

With socially critical lyrics about the irony of SNS culture, the struggle between authenticity and fakery, and the gap between inner and outer selves, it’s hard not to be moved.

Chosen as the lead track for the album “ERROR40,” this number unleashes Itsuka’s fierce individuality.

A long-awaited one-man live show, “POWER40,” their first in about seven years, is also on the way—definitely one to watch.

It’s a work that hits home for modern listeners living with loneliness.