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

At all times.Makihara Noriyuki

Whenever. – Noriyuki Makihara (Full)

At all times.Makihara Noriyuki

Makihara Noriyuki’s signature song and a classic cheer-up anthem, “Donna Toki mo.” Released as a single in 1991, it also served as a movie theme song at the time.

More than 30 years later, it remains beloved by many.

You’ve probably heard it in commercials or on TV, right? It’s a familiar tune—one I hope you’ll listen to while reading the lyrics carefully at least once.

It’s a moving, heartfelt number that gives courage and strength to people of any generation.

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[2026] Tearjerker and Uplifting Songs That Ignite Cultural and School Festivals (51–60)

chameleonKing Gnu

King Gnu – Chameleon

chameleonKing Gnu

A song that radiates an art-like aura is perfect for school and cultural festivals! “Chameleon” was released in 2022 by King Gnu, a crossover band that produces music across a wide range of genres.

It was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Mystery to Iu Nakare.” The poetic lyrics, which tenderly unfold delicate feelings, may bring you to tears.

Wrapped in Satoru Iguchi’s vocals—at once heartrending and warm—the track is captivating.

Fans of jazz and soul will surely be hooked.

It’s a tearjerker that’s perfect as background music for moving scenes.

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ultramarineYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Gunjou” Official Music Video

ultramarineYOASOBI

Among the many exquisite masterpieces crafted by YOASOBI, this song stands out with particularly high popularity and recognition.

Based on a novel, it features striking lyrics that overlay themes of self-expression, courage to pursue dreams, and the journey of growth with the color blue.

The world woven by Ayase’s masterful word choice and ikura’s clear, translucent vocals is so moving it brings tears to your eyes just by listening.

Released in January 2021, the song peaked at No.

9 on the Oricon charts and achieved the astonishing feat of staying on the charts for 182 weeks.

It might be the perfect choice for a school cultural festival performance—or for creating cherished memories with friends.

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SOSNanatsukaze

Nanatsukaze – Save Our Sound

SOSNanatsukaze

It’s a track that resonates like a prayer to a heart on the verge of being crushed by resignation and nihilism.

This work was released in August 2025 by Nanatsukaze, a unit formed by EDM trackmaker PIKASONIC and singer-songwriter nakotanmaru.

Its nostalgic arrangement stands out, and the vocals, which gradually build in intensity over a driving sound, really hit home.

If you listen on a night of inescapable loneliness, you may find this piece feels like a ray of light.

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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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Song of DepartureMr.Children

Mr.Children “Tabidachi no Uta” MUSIC VIDEO

Song of DepartureMr.Children

Mr.Children is a beloved national band popular with a wide range of listeners, from fans of the same generation as the band to their children’s generation.

Their song “Tabidachi no Uta” was released as a single in 2007 and was used as the theme song for the film “Koizora” (Sky of Love).

Many of Mr.Children’s songs are deeply moving, the kind that tighten your chest with emotion.

Of course, this track is also one that you’ll want to use in poignant scenes—a truly stirring song—so third-year students for whom this cultural festival will be the last are sure to find much that resonates.

It’s also cherished as a graduation song.

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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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