[Gratitude, Encouragement, Memories] Tear-Jerking Graduation Songs You Can’t Listen to Without Crying [2026]
The graduation ceremony marks the culmination of your school life.
As you look back on your memories, you may feel nostalgic, lonely, or reluctant to say goodbye—so many emotions can come rushing in.
In this article, we’ll introduce graduation songs that will stay close to your heart when you’re overflowing with such feelings.
“I held it together and didn’t cry at the ceremony, but once I got home and was alone, I felt lonely…” “I’m hopeful about my new life, but saying goodbye to everyone is still so sad!” We’ve gathered songs we want you to listen to in moments like these.
They’re all timeless tracks that capture the loneliness you’re feeling and the memories you cherish—moving songs that might just bring you to tears.
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[Gratitude, Encouragement, Memories] Tear-Jerking Graduation Songs You Can’t Listen to Without Crying [2026] (41–50)
StoryAI
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.
[Gratitude, Encouragement, Memories] Tear-Jerking Graduation Songs You Can’t Listen to Without Crying [2026] (51–60)
Precious FeelingsRIEHATA
This exquisite ballad by RIEHATA—renowned worldwide as a choreographer—deliberately sets aside dance performance to convey emotion solely through her voice.
Released in August 2023 to coincide with her birthday, the song gently stands beside those carrying pain or loneliness, offering encouragement that says, “You’ll be okay.” It’s a tear-jerker that expresses gratitude to friends and family who are parting ways after graduation, and serves as a cheer for oneself embarking on a new path.
JourneyFuji Kaze
Fujii Kaze’s song is a heartwarming piece themed around the journey of life and personal growth.
It’s a soulful track where nostalgic breakbeats intertwine with the gentle tones of a Wurlitzer.
Released in March 2021, it was chosen as the theme song for TV Asahi’s Thursday drama Nijiiro Karte.
This work, Kaze’s first-ever drama tie-in, also drew attention for its music video, which was filmed in his hometown of Satosho, Okayama Prefecture, and at his alma mater.
It’s a song we’d love graduates to hear—a track whose lyrics brim with hope for new beginnings and tender affection for cherished memories, sure to resonate with many.
Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa
A signature number by Road of Major that powerfully sings of irreplaceable bonds with friends and the bittersweet pain of parting.
Released as an indie single in August 2002, it set an astounding record by staying in the Oricon Top 10 for 19 consecutive weeks.
It’s also known for being completed by members who had been brought together for a TV show project, after enduring a grueling tour with their breakup on the line.
Their passionate spirit crossed the sea, and in 2009 the song was even used in a Taiwanese commercial.
Its driving rock sound and warm melody make it perfect as BGM for a graduation video when you want to express gratitude without getting too sentimental.
Revisit this classic—also included on the album “ROAD OF MAJOR”—alongside your cherished memories with dear friends.
When it shinesHitsuji Bungaku
“When It Shines” is a song that gently stays by your side when you’re feeling lonely.
It was written by the rock band Hitsujibungaku as the opening theme for the anime The Heike Story.
As you know, the Heike are destined to fall, yet the lyrics portray a determination to keep walking forward with hope.
It’s an uplifting encouragement song that can lift you out of a slump, so listening to it is sure to lighten your heart.
Sakura (2019)Moriyama Naotaro
Naotaro Moriyama’s “Sakura” is an unmissable, classic graduation song.
Since its release in 2003, countless artists have covered it, and it’s a timeless piece that will continue to be sung.
It perfectly captures those indescribable feelings that come with cherry blossom season—a refreshing time for new beginnings, yet also a season of farewells, carrying a certain melancholy that suits the song so well.
It’s a moving track you can’t help but hear when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE
It was released in 2007 as EXILE’s 23rd single.
The song was issued as the lead single from their fifth album, EXILE EVOLUTION, and was selected by the National Karaoke Business Association as a recommended song for the graduation season.
It’s popular as a classic graduation song, and the CD also includes a choral version.
Many people may be separated from their lovers or best friends upon graduation, and this is a moving, tear-jerking masterpiece that resonates with those hearts.
