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

Sakura: To You Who Couldn’t GraduateHanzaki Yoshiko

Yoshiko Hanzaki “Sakura — To You Who Couldn’t Graduate —” Anime ver. (Short)

A song by Yoshiko Hanzaki, a Hokkaido-born singer-songwriter who discovered her passion for music while in college and made her major-label debut after 17 years of groundwork.

Featured as the first track on her debut mini-album “Uta-ben,” the song’s poignant lyrics, based on a friend’s real-life experience, really tighten the chest.

When student life is fulfilling, graduation itself can feel sad, but the message that safely graduating and having a future are not things to be taken for granted may be shocking and thought-provoking for students about to embark on a new path.

It’s a tear-jerking number that teaches us the preciousness of moving on to the next stage.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Sakuraayaka

Ayaka / “Sakura” (from the LIVE DVD & Blu-ray “Acoustic Live Tour 2017–2018 ~3-STAR RAW~”)

This is a graduation song released in 2018 by Ayaka, who has had many hit songs since her major debut in 2006.

The term “sotsugyo” (graduation) doesn’t just mean finishing school; it can also refer to various turning points in life.

The lyrics, which can be overlaid with the scene of leaving one’s parents to start a new life, make it a moving masterpiece that brings tears not only to those graduating but also to mothers and fathers who listen.

Orangeakai kouen

Red Park “Orange” Music Video

Akaikoen’s new song is an emotional rock number themed around parting and new beginnings.

Its expansive, straightforward melody really resonates.

Released in November 2020, the track was also used as the opening theme for the FOD original drama “A Band Crossing Time.” How about listening to it after your graduation ceremony, when you’re back home and alone? While you may feel loneliness and lingering attachment, you’ll also find hope for a new chapter in life.

Akaikoen’s music has the power to strongly evoke empathy in listeners!

Cherry Blossom BookmarkAKB48

[MV full] Sakura no Shiori / AKB48 [Official]

It was released in 2010 as AKB48’s 15th major single.

The song features Minami Takahashi and Atsuko Maeda in the center positions and reached number one on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

As a choral piece, it was included in some music textbooks in 2011.

Owing to its lyrics, it is often performed as a graduation song at graduation ceremonies.

Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki

Far Away, Far Away – Noriyuki Makihara (Full)

A song by singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara, known not only for his original works but also for providing numerous hit songs to other artists.

Included on his 3rd album, “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” it’s recognized as one of Makihara’s signature songs despite never having been released as a single.

The lyrics, filled with the resolve to be able to proudly reunite with the friends you spent your school days with, may spark memories of youth amid the busyness of everyday life.

It’s a classic that gives you the courage to forge ahead on the path you believe in, and one that inevitably makes you nostalgic for graduation ceremonies.

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Hoshino Takashi

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365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB48

[MV] Paper Airplane of 365 Days (Short ver.) / AKB48 [Official]

In the J-pop scene, long referred to as an unprecedented era of idol rivalry, AKB48 remains so prominent that many still see them at the very top.

This song was created as the theme for the NHK morning drama series “Asa ga Kita,” and although it was included as a coupling track on their 42nd single “Kuchibiru ni Be My Baby,” it gained popularity across a wide range of listeners.

Its clear, airy melody evokes a bright, cloudless sky, making it perfect for celebrating the milestone of graduation.

It’s a moving track that teaches the importance of staying true to yourself.

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Hoshino Takashi

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StoryAI

AI – Story

A ballad that sings of the reassurance of having someone precious by your side and of an overflowing, profound love.

It’s a single released in May 2005 by AI, a singer-songwriter who captivates listeners with her husky, soulful voice.

The dramatic melody that begins with a piano intro gently wraps around the listener’s heart.

Also included on the album “Mic-a-holic Ai,” this beloved classic stayed on the charts for over 70 weeks after its release.

It’s also known as the Japanese ending theme for the Disney film Big Hero 6.

Carrying the message that you are not alone, this song is perfect for graduation-season memory videos that express gratitude to friends and mentors.

Be sure to give this warm, moving number a listen.