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

Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Thank You”

Though they disbanded in 2013 to much regret, FUNKY MONKEY BABYS’ songs are still often heard.

Their 21st single, “Arigatou,” released in 2013, is well known for featuring Sanma Akashiya on the cover.

It has also become a staple graduation song.

While it’s a graduation song, it’s also a track you’ll want to gift to dear friends—people you want to cherish forever.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want as a good-luck charm for the times after graduation when things get tough or you feel like giving up.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

My friend — from here on out, forever…Ketsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “My Friend ~ From Here On Forever…”

When it comes to songs you want to listen to during graduation season, you can’t leave out tracks that sing about friendship! They let you look back on memories with friends you’ve spent so much time with, and share your gratitude and your “let’s keep in touch from here on out” feelings.

The perfect friendship song for graduation season is this track by Ketsumeishi.

It speaks to staying friends forever, and the message of “I’ll be there to support you when times are tough” is incredibly reassuring.

If you listen to this song before graduation, it’s sure to bring back all your memories and emotions—and probably move you to tears!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

proofflumpool

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

Asho (Proof), flumpool’s seventh single released in 2011.

This song was also selected for the 78th NHK National School Music Contest that year.

Gentle and deeply moving, it mirrors the sentimental mood of graduation and is a tearjerker.

It also evokes a sense of the future that lies beyond graduation.

While it’s a graduation song, it conveys bonds of the heart and inner strength, making it a perfect anthem to cheer on those who are giving their all.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

footprint(s)Little Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster “Ashiato” Music Video

An emotional number where delicate piano melodies intertwine with powerful vocals to move the listener’s heart.

Written by the members themselves, the lyrics portray the strength to trust the path you’ve walked, even while carrying anxiety and doubt.

Its gentle message—that every past experience can become nourishment for the future—resonates not only with students at the milestone of graduation, but also deeply with us as adults.

Released in September 2020, the song was created as the set piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition (Junior High School Division).

Its acclaim is unquestionable, having won the Excellence Work Award at the 62nd Japan Record Awards.

Also included on the album “GRADATI∞N,” it’s an encouraging anthem that gives you courage—perfect for anyone embarking on a new journey or for moments when you feel like you might come to a halt.

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.

It’s okayji ma ma

jimama “It’s Okay”

Many of you probably remember that gentle singing voice from the commercial! This song by jimama, a singer-songwriter from Okinawa, is a warm ballad that seems to wrap listeners’ anxieties in comfort.

The words, inspired by “the precious person who always supports you,” resonate deeply with hearts facing graduation or a new departure.

Released as a single in April 2009, it was featured in a Taiyo Yakuhin Kogyo TV commercial at the time and played in living rooms across the country.

It topped the charts in Okinawa and was rediscovered after a 2014 TV appearance, remaining a beloved classic.

It’s also included on the album “BEST OF jimama ~Kimi ni Okuru Uta~.” As spring brings changes, it’s perfect for friends who are feeling anxious.

Rather than forcing encouragement, it’s filled with a gentle presence that simply stays by your side—sing it at a farewell party or karaoke, and the whole room is sure to be wrapped in a warm atmosphere!

The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'The Meaning of Goodbye'

This song carries the feeling that, although parting is painful, we should face forward and keep moving on.

It’s a track by the popular idol group Nogizaka46, released in 2016 as their 16th single.

Its biggest appeal is definitely the lyrics—each word radiates energy.

Maybe that’s why, even though the melody and sound feel heartrending, by the time you finish listening you’ll feel ready to live strongly.

Graduation is also a kind of send-off ceremony for yourself.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Araki Jakkan

Report a problem