Beautiful tear-jerking songs / songs that make you cry your eyes out

[2026] Tearjerker Songs That Bring the House Down at School Culture Festivals

Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

The school cultural festival, held once a year, is always a fun event.

From exhibitions and food stalls to volunteer performances on stage, there are all kinds of activities.

Amid all that, music plays an important role.

Whether it’s band performances, singing, dance routines, background music at the venue, or a theme song, music adds color to every moment.

In this article, we’ll spotlight tear-jerking, deeply moving songs from among our recommended tracks for cultural and school festivals.

Be sure to check out this playlist of masterpieces that will bring back memories of school life and the bonds with friends—and might just move you to tears!

[2026] Moving and Tear-Jerking Songs That Hype Up Culture and School Festivals (31–40)

Friends Friends FriendsMomoiro Kurōbā Zetto

Friends Friends Friends

Friends Friends FriendsMomoiro Kurōbā Zetto

A warm, heartwarming song themed around eternal friendship.

Momoiro Clover Z delicately conveys encounters and farewells, and the importance of irreplaceable bonds with their nuanced vocals.

The melody gently embraces feelings not only of friendship, but also for that special someone you think of—be it a lover or family.

Included on the album “Hydra,” this work is an anniversary song released in May 2024 to commemorate the group’s 15th anniversary.

It’s a song provided by singer-songwriter Ryujin Kiyoshi, his first contribution in about eight years, beautifully expressing his distinctive worldview.

Recommended as a finale-ending song for school and cultural festivals, and as a memorable track shared with friends and companions.

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1000 daysnozomi

Noashi (noa) – 1000 Days [Official Music Video]

1000 daysnozomi

Released in April 2025, this work is a youthful power song that distills the brilliance and bittersweetness of roughly a thousand days of high school life.

Its passionate melody, carried by a driving, fast-paced guitar rock sound, will stick in your head after just one listen.

The lyrics evoke a world that brings back those sweet-and-sour memories of writing and erasing a special someone’s name in the corner of your notebook—sure to set anyone’s heart ablaze.

It’s a track that resonates not only with those in the midst of their youth, but also when you look back fondly on days gone by.

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365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB48

Paper Airplane of 365 Days – AKB48 (Full)

365 Days' Paper AirplaneAKB48

It became a massive cross-generational hit after being chosen as the theme song for NHK’s morning drama series “Asa ga Kita.” It’s quite rare for an idol group’s song to be used as a morning drama theme just as it is, isn’t it? The lyrics—“Life is like a paper airplane; it rises and falls, but keeps on flying”—are like a pep talk that resonates with listeners, which may be one reason for its popularity.

It could be fun for a usually boisterous group of friends to surprise everyone by performing a serious chorus.

You could also ask someone experienced in sign language to create choreography and “sing in sign language” as one of your acts.

It’s a recommended song when you want to add variety and pacing to a school culture festival.

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SunMy Hair is Bad

My Hair is Bad – Sun

SunMy Hair is Bad

This work from My Hair is Bad is a moving, tear-jerking masterpiece perfect for school festivals and cultural events.

The lyrics are filled with sun-like brilliance and energy, expressing the excitement of a new beginning in life.

Vivid depictions—like muddy school grounds and the sound of the brass band—bring scenes of school life to mind.

Released digitally in March 2024, it was selected as the official theme song for MBS’s “96th Senbatsu.” Recommended for those who want to look back on bonds with friends and memories of youth, as well as those about to take a new step forward.

With My Hair is Bad’s powerful performance and heartfelt lyrics, it’s sure to liven up any school festival.

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sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)SEKAI NO OWARI

Sakanaction “Sazanka”

sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)SEKAI NO OWARI

Sazanka, a ballad by the four-piece band SEKAI NO OWARI.

Its striking lyrics and gentle melody will surely be a reliable companion at cultural and school festivals.

For example, on a morning that feels a little different on the day of the festival, or on a night after the wrap-up party when everything seems unusually quiet—this song may resonate even more in slightly sentimental moments.

Let this song make your special day even more special.

I hope it becomes a song that, whenever you hear it, brings back memories of those days.

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Murakami Shinpei

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[2026] Tearjerker and Uplifting Songs That Bring the House Down at School Culture Festivals (41–50)

Beyond the Night SkySMAP

Beyond the Night Sky – SMAP

Beyond the Night SkySMAP

Thanks to Fuji TV’s popular show “National Hamonep League,” whose “Youth A Cappella Koshien” segment sparked the trend, a cappella choruses are booming.

It seems many people tried chorus for the first time after watching this program.

So how about taking on the challenge of singing SMAP’s million-selling “Yozora no Mukō” in a cappella? If you ask for help, your music teacher or the choir club advisor will surely lend a hand.

The lyrics, which poignantly capture the hazy feelings unique to youth, are outstanding.

Cover versions by Shikao Suga, who wrote the lyrics, and Yuka Kawamura, who composed the music, could also offer hints for your a cappella arrangement.

With a superb chorus, step into the spotlight at your school festival!

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Because you are hereUru

[Official] Uru “Because You Are Here” — Theme Song for TBS Sunday Theater ‘Ship of Theseus’

Because you are hereUru

With her clear, translucent voice and expressive power, Uru is a first-rate singer when it comes to ballads.

Her song “Anata ga Iru Koto de,” the theme for the TV drama ‘Theseus no Fune,’ could also be considered a perfect track to energize school and cultural festivals.

The lyrics carry a wonderful message; a song about friendship forged over time and the days shared together is truly captivating.

This grand ballad will surely make that once-a-year, emotional day even more dramatic.

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Murakami Shinpei

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