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

German irisHinatazaka46

Hinatazaka46 “German Iris” Music Video

We all have those memories from our youth—walking past flowers by the roadside without even knowing their names, feelings we never quite managed to express.

Hinatazaka46’s new work sets those unfinished emotions and the moment of graduation—one chapter ending—against a beautiful mid-tempo melody.

It’s the first original song for the 5th generation, included on the single “Love yourself!” released in May 2025.

With the center Aimi Ono and the other members delivering raw, wistful vocals, the song gently wraps around those wordless feelings deep in your heart.

Its blue-themed visual world also drew attention.

It’s a song that will stay close to you when you want to pause in the season of farewells and look back, or when you need courage to take a new step forward.

1096Cody Rī (Ri)

Cody・Lee (Li) – 1096 (Music Video)

“Cody・Lee (李)” might sound like the name of a solo artist, but it’s actually the name of a rock band formed by college friends.

Their graduation song “1096” is really great! The title “1096” comes from tripling the 365 days in a year and adding one day for a leap year.

The lyrics pack three years’ worth of memories from junior high or high school into one song, and it’s sure to resonate not just with teens.

Every line has a real, lived-in feel, making you think, “Everyone must feel like this on the way to becoming an adult…”—and it’s a track you’ll find yourself wanting to replay over and over.

If you’re graduating this year, you’ve got to give it a listen.

treasurewacci

wacci “Treasure” (Lyric Video)

It’s a cheering song that gently affirms the anxiety and impatience you feel while pursuing your dreams, yet also the strong will not to give up.

Included on the album “Kanjō Hyakkei,” released in August 2017, this track features a warm band sound whose words and melody reach straight to the heart.

It became a hot topic when Miho Takagi of speed skating listened to it as her pump-up song during the Pyeongchang Olympics in February 2018, and it spread as a song that gives many people a push forward.

True to wacci’s style, its everyday, empathetic message makes it perfect to give to a friend setting out on a new path at graduation or to teammates who have overcome frustration in their club activities.

It’s a song that helps you reaffirm the “precious things” that will support you in the life ahead.

footprint(s)Little Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster “Ashiato” Music Video

An emotional number where delicate piano melodies intertwine with powerful vocals to move the listener’s heart.

Written by the members themselves, the lyrics portray the strength to trust the path you’ve walked, even while carrying anxiety and doubt.

Its gentle message—that every past experience can become nourishment for the future—resonates not only with students at the milestone of graduation, but also deeply with us as adults.

Released in September 2020, the song was created as the set piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition (Junior High School Division).

Its acclaim is unquestionable, having won the Excellence Work Award at the 62nd Japan Record Awards.

Also included on the album “GRADATI∞N,” it’s an encouraging anthem that gives you courage—perfect for anyone embarking on a new journey or for moments when you feel like you might come to a halt.

Blue BenchSasuke

Blue Bench / Sasuke

This song portrays a poignant, bittersweet love, looking back on a past relationship and expressing a deep longing and regret for a lost love.

Sasuke’s vocals vividly convey the protagonist’s emotions, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in April 2004 as an indie debut single, it spread by word of mouth and became an exceptional hit.

In 2011, it was covered by Tegomass from Johnny & Associates, achieving high rankings on many charts.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to during graduation or farewell season, recommended for moments when you want to reflect on memories with someone special.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata / Promise of a Sunflower (Short Ver.)

This song, which shot to nationwide fame as a ballad when it was chosen as the theme for the film STAND BY ME Doraemon, is one of Motohiro Hata’s signature tracks.

Many listeners were surely moved by the lyrics, which evoke the friendship between Doraemon and Nobita.

In particular, the second verse is perfect for graduation scenes, expressing the belief that even if people are separated they will surely meet again, and conveying a sense of gratitude too great to put into words—sentiments that are sure to resonate deeply with graduates.

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Futabaaimyon

Aimyon – Futaba [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

This is Aimyon’s warm, encouraging song, woven from and embracing the real emotions of 18-year-olds.

Created based on message videos submitted by 1,000 young people from across Japan, it delicately depicts the unique anxieties and hopes of the transition into adulthood.

Written as the theme song for NHK’s project “Aimyon 18 Festival,” it was released digitally in March 2022.

Later, it was included as the opening track on the album “Hitomi e Ochiruyo Record,” marking it as an important number.

It’s a perfect song for those about to leap into the unknown, or for graduates who, while carrying a touch of loneliness, are determined to look forward.

Be sure to listen to this piece on your special day of new beginnings—you’ll find the courage to break out of your shell and move ahead.