[Gratitude, Encouragement, Memories] Tear-Jerking Graduation Songs You Can’t Listen to Without Crying [2026]

YuiriMurayama Yuiri

[MV full] Yuiri / Sayaka Murayama [Official]

Ayaka Murayama, who has appeared in over 1,000 AKB48 theater performances and has long been beloved by fans as the “Goddess of the Theater.” Created to coincide with her graduation from the group, this work bears her nickname in its title and is a moving ballad that conveys gratitude while she looks at herself as an idol with an objective eye.

As it reflects on her journey so far, her vocals, filled with determination to move forward into the future, are impossible to listen to without tears.

It’s a coupling track included on the limited first edition TYPE-A of the single “Masaka no Confession,” released in April 2025, with lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto.

It’s a gentle masterpiece that will resonate with anyone embarking on a new chapter from a place they’ve spent many years, or parting ways with cherished companions.

Don’t bloom.WHITE JAM

[This year's No.1 graduation song] [MV] Don't Bloom / WHITE JAM [Blackboard Art Ver.]

A song by WHITE JAM, a music group that made their major debut in 2014.

The bittersweet lyrics—saying that once the cherry blossoms bloom, it becomes the season of farewells—make it a perfect message for graduation scenes.

While believing you’ll meet again, the longing to return to those joyful days is a sentiment many can relate to, making this a truly resonant number.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Song of DepartureMr.Children

[Piano ver.] Tabidachi no Uta / Mr.Children -Full Lyrics- Covered by Hitomi Sano

A four-member rock band known by the nickname “Misuchiru” and now one of the flagship monster bands of the J-POP scene, Mr.Children released this as their 31st single.

The song was used as the theme for the film “Koizora” and as the CM song for NTT East’s corporate advertising.

It’s a quintessential Mr.Children number that conveys a powerful message wrapped in gentleness.

Rather than dwelling on the sadness of parting, its message inspires anticipation for a new path, reminding us of the meaning and preciousness of graduation.

It’s a song we hope you’ll listen to at a graduation ceremony—a track that gives you a push to move forward in a life marked by repeated meetings and farewells.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Walking forward into the windSandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

Walking forward into the wind

Parting with the friends we once shared our dreams with is sad, but thinking that each of us is doing our best in different places gives us strength to keep going, doesn’t it? We may no longer be able to see each other at school every day as we used to, but I hope we can fulfill our dreams and meet again.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri

Sakura Clear Skies

Prompted by an email from a fan who was facing graduation without being able to make enough memories during the COVID-19 pandemic, this became Yuuri’s first-ever graduation song.

It was released digitally in February 2021 and was included on the following year’s album, “Ichi.” Set to a gentle arrangement centered on piano and strings, the lyrics express straightforward gratitude to a father, mother, and friends.

Everyday scenes—like the view by the window and the smell of home—are depicted with care, inviting moments that may overlap with each listener’s own memories.

Balancing the sorrow of farewell with hope for a new beginning, the lyrics gently support those whose hearts are full after their graduation ceremony.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear when you want to share feelings that are usually too embarrassing to express, or when you want to look back on precious time with your friends.

Farewell, YouthChatto Monchī

Chatmonchy – Farewell, Youth – Zepp Osaka 2008

This is Chatmonchy’s graduation song, with which they declared the completion of their activities in 2018.

The lyrics depict nostalgic scenes that everyone has experienced, and they’re sure to strike a chord.

You’ll realize that each ordinary day has become a very precious memory.

With its gentle accompaniment and vocals, it’s sure to loosen your tear ducts.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

weNishino Kana

Kana Nishino - Watashitachi (We) FNS Uta no Natsu Matsuri (FNS Music Festival in Summer)

It was released in 2012 as Kana Nishino’s 17th single.

Chosen as the theme song for the Toho-distributed film “Girl,” it’s a friendship song that portrays bonds between women.

It’s a warm track that conveys the feeling that even after graduation, as we go our separate ways, our friendship will never change.