[Great Lyrics!!] Recommended Tear-Jerking Graduation Songs with Heartfelt, Moving Words [2026]

Precious FeelingsRIEHATA

RIEHATA “Precious Feelings” Official Music Video

This exquisite ballad by RIEHATA—renowned worldwide as a choreographer—deliberately sets aside dance performance to convey emotion solely through her voice.

Released in August 2023 to coincide with her birthday, the song gently stands beside those carrying pain or loneliness, offering encouragement that says, “You’ll be okay.” It’s a tear-jerker that expresses gratitude to friends and family who are parting ways after graduation, and serves as a cheer for oneself embarking on a new path.

See you again.kawanishi natsuki

See you again.

This warm and slightly nostalgic ballad by Natsuki Kawanishi, a singer-songwriter from Nara Prefecture, was released in August 2025.

It was selected as the opening theme for BS-TBS’s “Nara Fushigi Tabi Zukan.” Co-written with Sho Yamamoto, the song blends a gently enveloping melody with Kawanishi’s resolute vocals to quietly awaken listeners’ “hometowns of the heart.” The lyrics convey not only the parting that comes with setting off on a journey, but also a forward-looking promise to meet again, evoking a sense of certain hope amid loneliness.

It’s a perfect song for those leaving their hometown for school or work.

Waiting for flowersKihara Rui

Rui Kihara / Waiting for Flowers Official Music Video

Written and composed by singer-songwriter Atsu Mizuno, this piece is a ballad distinguished by its warm melody.

It captures the loneliness of parting and a wish to meet again, offering comfort to those standing at the major milestone of graduation.

Released as a single in March 2025, it was also included on the first album, “REPLAY,” released the same year.

It’s a perfect song for spring, a season of new beginnings.

Don’t bloom.WHITE JAM

[This Year’s No.1 Graduation Song] [MV] Don’t Bloom / WHITE JAM

Sung by WHITE JAM, a group active since 2008, this song has long been a favorite graduation tune.

The title phrase “Sakanaide” (“Don’t Bloom”) may seem negative at first, but it carries a poignantly modest sentiment: “If the cherry blossoms bloom, the time to say goodbye will come, so please don’t bloom yet.” The lyrics also depict everyday scenes from school life and promises to meet again, making it a song that’s sure to resonate when graduation draws near.

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Hane Keisuke

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YuiriMurayama Yuiri

[MV full] Yuiri / Sayaka Murayama [Official]

Ayaka Murayama, who has appeared in over 1,000 AKB48 theater performances and has long been beloved by fans as the “Goddess of the Theater.” Created to coincide with her graduation from the group, this work bears her nickname in its title and is a moving ballad that conveys gratitude while she looks at herself as an idol with an objective eye.

As it reflects on her journey so far, her vocals, filled with determination to move forward into the future, are impossible to listen to without tears.

It’s a coupling track included on the limited first edition TYPE-A of the single “Masaka no Confession,” released in April 2025, with lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto.

It’s a gentle masterpiece that will resonate with anyone embarking on a new chapter from a place they’ve spent many years, or parting ways with cherished companions.

far; distant; by farGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Haruka

This song, Haruka by GReeeeN, was the theme for the blockbuster drama ROOKIES’ film adaptation, ROOKIES -Graduation-.

Released in 2009, it’s GReeeeN’s 11th single.

GReeeeN has many deeply moving, heart-stirring tracks, but this one in particular will likely resonate with those about to graduate and those living away from their hometowns.

It’s a touching song that feels gentle yet powerfully resolute at its core.

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utatane

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cheerMarushii

Marcy – Yell (Official Music Video)

A new cheering song that gently nudges on the backs of those giving their all every day has arrived from Marcy, a three-piece rock band from Fukuoka.

Released digitally in February 2024, the track was written specifically as the 55th anniversary campaign song for Shinken Zemi’s High School Course.

Vocalist/guitarist Ukyo Yoshida handled both lyrics and composition, infusing the song with messages that validate the daily efforts that can’t be measured by scores and offer comfort for moments when you feel utterly alone in the world.

The school-set music video portrays the struggles of boys and girls and the scenery of youth as an ensemble drama, deepening the immersion into the song’s world.

It’s a number we especially hope will reach those about to take a new step after graduation, and those who are living each day earnestly even when the results don’t yet show.