[2026] A Collection of Graduation Songs Recommended for Gen Z [A Page of Youth]

Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai

Dai Hirai / The Way Home in March (Lyric Video)

In the season when spring cherry blossoms are in full bloom, Dai Hirai’s music truly touches the heart.

It beautifully sings of the sadness of graduation and parting, as well as the hope for new beginnings, gently enveloping listeners.

Set to the tender tones of piano and strings, the lyrics—woven with cherished memories and dreams for the future—leave a lasting impression.

Released in February 2022, this song is also included on the album “LOVE+PEACE.” It’s perfect for moments like graduation and entrance ceremonies.

With a heartwarming melody that feels like a send-off to those embarking on a new chapter, it resonates deeply.

spring skySuzuki Suzuki

【Graduation】Spring Sky – Suzuki Suzuki【Official Music Video】

The graduation song crafted by the brother duo Suzuki Suzuki is a gem packed with all the joys and sorrows of youth.

Its lyrics, carefully depicting memories and emotions from school days, resonate deeply with listeners.

Released digitally in February 2022, the track also garnered attention for its music video featuring three popular video creators.

Early distribution on TikTok helped boost its profile as well.

This warm song gently supports those leaving their hometowns to start a new life.

It’s recommended not only for students on the verge of graduation, but also for anyone nostalgic for their school days.

A heartfelt ballad you’ll want to etch into a page of your youth.

365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB48

[MV full] 365 Nichi no Kamihikōki / AKB48 [Official]

An AKB48 number that likens life to a paper airplane.

A paper airplane carrying love and wishes as it flies is just like our lives themselves.

The lyrics, which sing about the importance of the journey, give us the courage to take a new step forward.

Created in 2015 as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Asa ga Kita,” this piece’s simple melody resonates in the heart and is used at life’s milestones such as graduation and weddings.

In 2018, it was even included in high school music textbooks.

Filled with such wishes, it’s a song you’ll want to hum together with someone dear to you.

sentimentalculenasm

culenasm “Sentimental” (Official Music Video)

Culenasm’s song delivers sentimental feelings with raw emotion.

It’s a shoegaze number where roaring guitars resonate beautifully.

Released digitally on February 5, 2025, the track centers on themes of regret over past relationships and the bittersweet wish to return to those moments.

Through its guitar sound, it expresses both the beauty of memories and the ache of regret.

In December 2023, they also provided the theme song for director Hideki Noda’s film “Futari no Kizuato” (The Scars of Two).

It’s a recommended listen for anyone looking to confront past memories and emotions as graduation season approaches.

I’m glad I met you.Inoue Sonoko

Sonoko Inoue – “I’m Glad I Met You” (short ver.)

A song by singer-songwriter Sonoko Inoue that colors the moment of taking a new step forward along with memories of youth.

Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Sakura Saku,” it was released as a single in February 2016 and included on the March 2016 album “Hello.” With its gentle tone and lyrics themed around parting and new departures, it truly resonates.

Because it reflects Inoue’s own experiences as she approached high school graduation, the emotions feel very real.

It’s a piece we hope students facing graduation and anyone experiencing a farewell with someone important will listen to.