RAG MusicGraduation
A lovely graduation song

[2026] Recommended for Women! A Collection of Moving J-POP Graduation Songs

Graduation songs that color farewells with friends and new beginnings are beloved across generations, no matter the era.

In this article, while focusing on the theme of graduation songs, we’ll introduce a wide range of tracks sung by female artists that we especially recommend for women.

From nostalgic tunes to songs that mark fresh encounters, we’ve selected pieces from the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras across genres and periods, so you’re sure to find a song that resonates with your heart.

Use this as a reference not only for choosing BGM for graduation ceremonies and farewell parties, but also for karaoke at after-parties following the ceremony!

[2026] Recommended for Women! A Collection of Moving J‑Pop Graduation Songs (41–50)

graduation songwhiteeeen

whiteeeen “Graduation Song” lyric video
graduation songwhiteeeen

Released in 2014 as the sister group to GReeeeN, whiteeeen’s song “Sotsugyo Song” (“Graduation Song”) is, as the title suggests, a track about graduation.

It candidly expresses those inevitable, heart-wrenching feelings—not wanting to part from friends, wishing you could stay together just a little longer.

Many people may have felt that school life was monotonous, with days passing by without much change.

But when graduation comes, you realize those ordinary moments were actually precious.

This song captures those feelings perfectly.

pupilŌhara Sakurako

Sakurako Ohara – Hitomi (Music Video Short ver.)
pupilŌhara Sakurako

Sakurako Ohara’s “Hitomi” is packed with memories and emotions inseparable from youth—a song that celebrates the beauty of chasing your dreams.

Although it was chosen as the image song for the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, it’s also perfect for the milestone of graduation.

Ohara’s refreshingly pure, transparent voice will resonate with listeners and give them courage.

It’s a great pick for karaoke, too.

As a moving, ballad-style song, it’s sure to touch everyone’s hearts when sung at karaoke during graduation season.

To my dear youInoue Sonoko

Sonoko Inoue – To My Precious You
To my dear youInoue Sonoko

Inoue Sonoko often writes songs that capture her real feelings and high school life, and I’m sure this song will resonate with people around the same age.

Although “To My Precious You” isn’t a graduation song, it’s a youth anthem packed tightly with fun student-life memories.

When you listen, who comes to mind—someone you love, a secret crush, a dear friend? It’s a bright, upbeat track, but if you hear it in a graduation setting, all those happy memories may come flooding back one after another, and you might start to feel a little bittersweet.

Best FriendNishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'Best Friend (short ver.)'
Best FriendNishino Kana

“Best Friend” is a masterpiece in which Kana Nishino sings heartfelt gratitude and love to a friend.

With its heartwarming melody and lyrics dedicated to a best friend who has shared both tough times and joyful moments, this song is perfect for graduation season.

Nishino’s clear, soaring vocals add a brilliant touch to the track.

Why not listen to “Best Friend” while thinking of your dear friends and reaffirm your feelings of gratitude?

Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro 「Best Friend」 Music Video (Short ver.)
Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro’s “Best Friend” is a classic that encapsulates the essence of youth.

Its lyrics, which express gratitude to a friend who’s always been there for you, are perfect for graduation scenes.

For that inevitable graduation day, it’s filled with warm melodies and words that beautifully convey appreciation to close friends.

It’s also an ideal pick for karaoke, making the moments of singing while reliving memories truly special.

This song, which stirs the heart every time you hear it, will continue to be loved by many across generations.

Cherry Blossom BookmarkAKB48

[MV full] Sakura no Shiori / AKB48 [Official]
Cherry Blossom BookmarkAKB48

This song, “Sakura no Shiori,” might not be very familiar to people in their teens.

In a good way, it doesn’t feel like a typical idol song; its melody is reminiscent of a children’s song.

Because the melody is simple, the idols’ vocal skills actually come through better than usual.

Pay attention to its simple yet profound, distinctly Japanese sound.

Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO

An encouraging song that warmly watches over everyday struggles and resonates with women’s hearts! Its catchy melody and moving lyrics are especially captivating.

Released in February 2017, it was also featured in an NTT Docomo commercial.

The lyrics are filled with phrases that gently nudge on those who keep doing their best—truly memorable.

The music video, filmed at Todoroki Athletics Stadium, also drew attention.

It’s a song that gives you the courage to move forward step by step—recommended not only for women about to graduate, but also for anyone feeling anxious about a new chapter in life.