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 Ignite Cultural and School Festivals (51–60)

intersectionatarayo

Atarayo – Intersection (Music Video)

intersectionatarayo

“Kousaten (Intersection)” is a 2022 track by Atarayo that sings of a powerful longing for someone you can no longer meet.

The grief of losing someone dear is so painful it defies words.

The song vividly portrays helpless sorrow, struggle, and that agonizing inner turmoil that has nowhere to go.

As part of a band set, try pouring your soul into it when you want to dramatically change the mood on stage.

There are sections the audience can sing along to as well, so get the whole venue involved and sing it together!

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Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro ｢Best Friend｣ Official Music Video

Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro’s signature song celebrates the depth of friendship and the feeling of gratitude.

Released in June 2001, the track was also used as the ending theme for the Japanese version of the Disney/Pixar film “The Good Dinosaur.” Tamashiro’s warm vocals and Kinjo’s gentle piano tones create a melody that resonates deeply.

The lyrics, expressing thanks to friends who stay by your side in times of uncertainty, have struck a chord with many and are often performed at milestones such as graduation ceremonies and weddings.

Sing it with friends at a school or cultural festival, and it’s sure to become an unforgettable memory.

It’s the perfect song for conveying your appreciation to someone special.

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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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Philosophy[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Philosophy (MV)

Philosophy[Alexandros]

The annual collaboration project with artists targeting the 18-year-old generation, “18-sai (Festival).” The song “Philosophy” by [Alexandros], which was the theme song in 2019, means “philosophy” in Japanese.

It’s a track that really resonates with people at this age, packed tightly with unbending beliefs and those hazy emotions of being caught between adulthood and childhood—feelings that neither side fully understands.

Wouldn’t it be perfect for a school festival?

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[2026] Tearjerker and Uplifting Songs That Bring Down the House at School Culture Festivals (61–70)

Letter — Dear you at fifteenAnjura Aki

Angela Aki “Letter: To You, Fifteen” Music Video (HD)

Letter — Dear you at fifteenAnjura Aki

A number by Angela Aki written on the theme of a message to her 15-year-old self.

Released in September 2008, the song was created as the set piece for the NHK All-Japan School Chorus Contest (junior high division) and was also broadcast on “Minna no Uta.” Set to a piano-centered melody, the lyrics—where one’s future self and past self encourage each other—resonate deeply.

This piece is perfect for choral performances and solo piano-and-vocal renditions at school or cultural festivals.

Its lyrics, which evoke the value of friendship and youth, are sure to capture listeners’ hearts.

It’s often used at graduation ceremonies and commemorative events, and singing it together will surely create moving memories.

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KanadeSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

KanadeSukima Suichi

A long-selling song by Sukima Switch, the two-member music unit consisting of vocalist Takuya Ohashi and pianist Shintaro Tokita.

It’s been tied in with many films, TV dramas, and commercials, so you’ve probably heard it at least once.

They say they created the track with the image of a woman leaving a man.

The lyrics tell a story, and the poignant melody, the vocalist’s voice, and the piano come together to make it a moving masterpiece.

Let’s get everyone pumped at the school festival by singing it together or doing it at karaoke!

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On the day of departure…Kawashima Ai

Ai Kawashima / On the Day of Departure (Lyrics)

On the day of departure…Kawashima Ai

Singer-songwriter Ai Kawashima’s signature song “Tabidachi no Hi ni…” This track was released as a single in 2006 and has long been loved as a classic graduation song.

It’s a moving piece that will surely stir the hearts of third-year students for whom this year’s school festival will be their last.

It reminds us that the ordinary moments of everyday life are truly precious—helping us rediscover their value.

Listen to it while thinking of your friends, and you’ll surely feel inspired to treasure every moment that lies ahead.

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