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[Wake-Up Songs] Energetic and Uplifting! Japanese Pop/J-POP You’ll Want to Hear in the Morning

A must-read for anyone who struggles to get out of bed in the morning! In this article, we’ll introduce recommended wake-up songs for when you want to listen to music that helps you feel refreshed in the morning or when you’re looking for tracks to use as an alarm.

We’ve gathered a variety of tunes—upbeat and positive songs, fresh tracks that suit the morning, and pieces where the instruments blast out with energy.

You’re sure to find a song that clears your head! Whether mornings are tough or easy for you, listen to the songs we recommend and kick-start your day with full energy!

[Wake-Up Songs] Energetic and Uplifting! Japanese Music/J-POP You’ll Want to Hear in the Morning (101–110)

Good MorningMinami

A heartwarming pop tune that gently wraps the busyness and blues of the morning.

Released in June 2024 as the theme song for TV Asahi’s information program “Good! Morning.” While depicting realistic morning scenes—like days that rush by in fast-forward and the impatience of waiting at traffic lights—it sings about the importance of finding small hopes within them.

Minami’s clear, transparent vocals soften those hectic mornings just a bit.

Perfect for anyone who wants to start a new day with a positive mindset.

Just a little moreYOASOBI

A soft melody and Ikura’s lovely vocals are a perfect match in “Just a Little.” Released as a digital single in May 2021, it was chosen as the theme song for the TV program Mezamashi TV, making it an ideal tune for mornings.

Its flowing, soothing sound and the refrain of the title in the chorus gently give you a push—comforting you on off mornings and making good days even brighter.

Among YOASOBI’s songs, it has an especially mellow vibe, so it’s a track that people of all ages can easily warm to.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to share with others.

The blue sky and meCeleina Ann

Celeina Ann – Blue Sky and Me (MUSIC VIDEO) Theme song for Nippon TV’s “ZIP!” ‘Aozora Caravan’
The blue sky and meCeleina Ann

Released in 2016 as Serena Ann’s debut single.

The song was used as the theme for the hugely popular ZIP! segment “Aozora Caravan” on Nippon TV, and it’s based on Serena’s two-person journey with her canine partner, Sora.

It’s a fresh, bright track that blows away any morning sluggishness.

Map of the SunMISIA

Map of the Sun (from THE TOUR OF MISIA 2008 EIGHTH WORLD Live Ver.)
Map of the SunMISIA

It’s a positive song that sings, “May something fun happen to you today, too!” It’s by MISIA, the singer known for hits like Everything and Ai no Katachi, and it’s included on her eighth album, EIGHTH WORLD, released in 2008.

It became a hot topic at the time when it was used as a theme song for the TV show Mezamashi TV.

Its bright, refreshing tone awakens both your eyes and your heart; the sound alone chases away drowsiness.

MISIA’s clear, expansive vocals are absolutely wonderful, too.

With this song, you’ll be able to step out the front door feeling great.

creationHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Creation (Official Video)
creationHoshino Gen

This is the third digital-only single by singer-songwriter Gen Hoshino, who played guitar and marimba in the instrumental band SAKEROCK, which disbanded in 2015, and who now showcases his multifaceted talents through music, acting, and writing.

Created as the 35th-anniversary theme song for the video game Super Mario Bros., the track’s high-speed, intricate beats and thrilling, game-music-inspired arrangement make it irresistibly addictive.

The sprinkled 8-bit sounds linger in your ears and can even lift your mood on tough mornings.

It’s a wake-you-up number that fuses game music with soul music.

[Alarm Songs] Energetic and Uplifting! Japanese Music/J-POP to Listen to in the Morning (111–120)

GET UPGLORY HILL

Here’s a recommendation for anyone who loves melodic punk.

This track is by GLORY HILL, a rock band from Aiken, and it’s included on their 2008 single “GET UP e.p.” Their hallmark is a powerful, straightforward sound, and this song showcases that appeal to the fullest.

The lyrics carry a message of “don’t look backward—value yourself and keep moving forward.” With its driving energy, it’s perfect for listening on your commute to school or work.

SWITCHTENDRE

Taro Kawahara, active as a producer and multi-instrumentalist, leads his solo project TENDRE.

SWITCH, written as the theme song for NHK’s information program Asaichi, is a number that brings a refreshing morning vibe right from its opening choral work.

Its gentle vocals and laid-back beat seem perfect for gradually waking up a sleepy mind.

True to its title, it’s a pop tune that flips your switch and soothes your mood at the start of the day.