Classic songs that celebrate courage. Recommended popular tracks.
I’ve put together a playlist of classic Japanese songs with the theme of courage.
Because the lyrics are in Japanese, I think the songs’ messages can reach listeners more directly.
When you want to push yourself a bit more, need a nudge, or want some encouragement, music will be there by your side.
- Take the first step!! Songs that give you courage, songs that make you persevere when you listen
- An uplifting anthem of love and courage. Recommended classics and popular songs that boost your spirits.
- Encouraging songs: timeless masterpieces that resonate with the heart, recommended popular tracks
- An uplifting song with great lyrics. A wonderful, memorable message that stays with your heart.
- Job-change anthems: inspiring and popular songs that give you courage
- Songs that give you courage. Recommended tracks that fill you with strength when you listen to them.
- [Support for the Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough
- Listening will surely fill you with courage! Cheer songs released in the Reiwa era
- [For Kids] Songs That Give You Courage: A Collection of Tracks That Fill You with Strength When You Listen
- Songs with powerful lyrics. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- Just by listening, you’ll feel braver! Cheer songs recommended for the Yutori generation
- [Cheer-Up Songs Special] Songs that give you courage when you're feeling down. Encouraging tracks.
- Get healthy with music! Uplifting Japanese songs
Iconic songs about courage. Recommended popular tracks (111–120)
Kinnikuman HeroEndō Masaaki
With his powerful vocals that stir the soul, Masaaki Endoh pours his passion into a heartfelt cry from the spirit.
It brilliantly portrays a hero who stands firm in justice and friendship, powerfully expressing blazing fighting spirit and bonds with comrades.
The brassy resonance and drum’n’bass beat add even more excitement to stunning effect.
Released in January 2025 as the opening theme for the TV anime “Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc Season 2,” the song is written and composed by APAZZI.
It’s a track I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who wants to etch a tale of indomitable spirit and friendship in their heart, and to those seeking the courage to face adversity.
CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
This is one of Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s signature works, carrying a warm message of blessing to celebrate new beginnings.
Loved by many as an anthem cheering on those stepping onto life’s big stage, it’s a heartwarming piano folk ballad that gently stands by you and gives you the courage to move forward.
Released in September 1980, the song was born from the feeling of congratulating a friend on their wedding, then re-recorded in 1988 and became a major hit.
It also became familiar as the theme song for Kirin Lager Beer commercials in the 1990s.
It’s a powerful song of encouragement that stays close when you or your friends are at life’s milestones or starting anew, and when you need a lift yourself.
Set SailBE:FIRST
This song evokes the feeling of setting sail toward a hope-filled future.
Released digitally in February 2024, it was created as a collaboration track with the ONE PIECE CARD GAME.
It celebrates the courage to pursue your dreams and the importance of bonds with your companions.
Lines like “I’m always okay” that look straight ahead with strength, and the pursuit of dreams “toward where the flames rise higher,” leave a strong impression.
The voices of the seven members of BE:FIRST gently give listeners a push forward.
It’s the perfect track for those who feel anxious before a new challenge or want to chase their dreams together with their friends.
Endless JourneyMr.Children
An undisputed classic by Mr.Children, this song—often listened to by professional athletes—is a one-of-a-kind anthem of encouragement.
It tells us that the many big walls we face in life reveal a wonderful view once we overcome them.
It’s a track I highly recommend listening to when you’re up against difficulties.
Poem of the Wandering Starssuis from Yorushika
A new song by suis from Yorushika, written for the 5th anniversary of the smartphone game Azur Lane.
Beginning in a quiet night, it beautifully depicts scenes where anxiety and hope for change intersect, carried by her clear, translucent vocals.
The fantastical lyrics about boarding a train bound for the moon seem to symbolize a resolve to embark on a new journey.
Released in February 2024, it was also used as the theme song for the anime “Are We Entering the Future Now?”.
It’s a track that gently stays close to those whose hearts waver between dreams and reality.
HeroAmuro Namie
Isn’t it rare to find a female artist who is supported by so many women? Though her song is used for events like the Olympics and initially feels like a grand, orchestral piece, the rhythm shifts and turns into an up-tempo track.
It’s a must-listen that fills you with energy just by hearing it.
flying boatKing Gnu
It’s a song that stays close to your heart and gives you a powerful push forward.
It opens with the line, “Don’t tremble in fear of nothing but what’s ‘right,’” urging the importance of breaking free from society’s restraints and living freely.
King Gnu’s signature, distinctive sound and Satoru Iguchi’s vocals enhance the song’s appeal.
Released in August 2019, it drew attention as an ANA commercial song, and its innovative drone-driven music video also turned heads.
It’s a perfect track for anyone about to take on a new challenge or hoping to reclaim their true self.
Listen to this piece, and you’re sure to feel your courage rising.