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

CorrectRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Live Video from “ANTI ANTI GENERATION TOUR 2019”]

RADWIMPS’ moving graduation song delicately portrays the struggles and growth of young people.

Originally included on their 2018 album ANTI ANTI GENERATION, it was newly recorded and released digitally in January 2024, followed by a long-awaited CD release in February of the same year.

The band’s diverse musicality and profound lyrics are standout features, and the track is widely loved as a staple of the graduation season.

Its origin as a piece written for the NHK special “RADWIMPS 18 Festival” also deepens its resonance with youth.

It’s a song that stands by everyone embarking on a new chapter in life—give it a listen.

You may just find hints to discover your own ‘right answer.’

If I turn around…Janne Da Arc

Janne Da Arc – If I Turn Around…

When it comes to graduation songs by visual kei rock bands, this is the one.

Released in February 2006 as Janne Da Arc’s 25th single, the track was chosen as the theme song for the film “HIRAKATA.” There’s even an anecdote that, before it was officially put on CD, fans were already clamoring for a proper release.

It reached No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of Japan.

Set against beautifully resonant strings, yasu’s heartrending vocals make this a moving ballad.

The lyrics evoke scenes of school life, a farewell to someone dear, and the hope of meeting again someday—perfect for the graduation season.

It has continued to be loved as a seasonal staple, even appearing on the compilation album “Sotsugyo no Uta.” A highly recommended song to gift to anyone embarking on a new chapter.

We againSG

Us, Again – SG (Official Lyric Video)

Sogyoung, a singer who’s gained popularity mainly on social media like YouTube and TikTok.

Known for his strong vocals and creative concepts, his go-to graduation song is “Bokura Mata” (“We, Again”).

On TikTok, it’s been used in countless videos themed around school life.

His gentle, conversational singing over a light, R&B-style beat leaves a lasting impression.

The lyrics, which bring to mind days spent with a beloved partner or friends at school, offer encouragement for tomorrow.

Even when you part ways with someone important, this song reminds you that the relationship doesn’t have to end.

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mutō

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March 9Remioromen

Remioromen – March 9th (Music Video Short ver.)

Remioromen’s second single “March 9th,” released in 2004, has become a staple graduation song.

Even after the band announced a hiatus in 2012, this is one of those tracks you always seem to hear from somewhere when graduation season comes around.

The song became a long-running hit after being featured in the drama “1 Litre of Tears,” and many people strongly associate it with that.

In fact, the members of Remioromen originally wrote it to perform at an acquaintance’s wedding, but its lyrics are so moving that it also fits perfectly as a graduation song.

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utatane

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Bye, my friendbokula.

bokula. – By My Friend - [Official Music Video]

Looking back on the days spent with dear friends, I want to say goodbye with a smile.

There’s a perfect song for that moment by bokula., a rock band from Hiroshima.

Included on their May 2022 album “Seikatsu ni, Yorisoi.”, it has garnered broad support—especially among middle and high school students—surpassing a total of 8.5 million streams.

The lyrics, which earnestly portray the irreplaceable time spent together and the unchanging bonds even when apart, resonate deeply.

While grounded in rock, vocalist Ei’s gentle voice delicately captures subtle emotions, quietly stirring the listener’s heart.

Hum it with your friends at a graduation ceremony or farewell party, and tears are sure to flow.

It’s a must-listen for those who want to send gratitude and encouragement to friends setting out on a new path.

Letter ~Dear You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki

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

This song, “Letter: Dear You, Fifteen,” is one of Angela Aki’s signature tracks.

It was released in 2008 as her eighth single.

With this song, she also performed at the 2018 NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

As the title suggests, the lyrics are written like a letter—messages from one’s 15-year-old self, struggling with many things, to their future self, and warm, empowering words of advice sent back from the future self.

It’s a moving graduation song that resonates deeply with anyone navigating the sensitive years of youth.

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utatane

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cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro

Sakura

This song, a massive hit in 2003, is a masterpiece that depicts parting and reunion through the beauty and transience of cherry blossoms.

Naotaro Moriyama’s clear vocals and the simple, piano-centered arrangement resonate deeply with listeners.

The lyrics, which liken cherry blossoms scattering at the very moment they are in full bloom to the turning points of life, evoke both the poignancy of a departure and a forward-looking hope.

Chosen as the ending theme for the MBS/TBS program “Sekai Ururun Taizai-ki,” it sold over one million copies.

In 2019, it was revived with a new arrangement as the theme song for the drama “同期のサクラ” (Synchrony’s Sakura), and it continues to be loved across generations.

Sung at a graduation ceremony—one of life’s important milestones—it will etch memories with friends and a resolve for the future even more deeply.