[Graduation Songs] Tear-Jerking, Heartwarming Ballads | A Showcase of Classics and the Newest Hits!

To the futureKiroro

To the Future – Kiroro (Full)

As a graduation song ballad, this is absolutely indispensable.

The tears you’ve been holding back overflow all at once from the very first lines, don’t they? It’s a moving ballad not only for the graduates but also for the adults who see them off.

A parent’s love is eternal.

This song will continue to be sung for generations to come.

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Yoshizaki Keiko

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cherry blossomKobukuro

Kobukuro “Sakura”

This song, which is almost always mentioned as a cherry blossom song and a graduation song, is “Sakura” by Kobukuro.

Released in 2005 as Kobukuro’s 12th single, it’s a nationally beloved sakura song that you’re bound to hear at least once when graduation season arrives and the cherry blossoms bloom.

Comparing feelings to cherry blossoms, it sings of their strength and transience, and is cherished by people of all ages.

It’s a tear-jerker that will surely resonate not only with graduates but also with those seeing them off, don’t you think?

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utatane

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proofflumpool

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

Akashi by flumpool, released in 2011.

This song is also beloved as a classic graduation song, and since it was created for NHK’s National School Music Contest, it’s also known as a choral piece.

For graduation ceremonies, gentle ballads with vocals that resonate in the heart are the perfect choice.

This song expresses the sadness and poignancy of parting from friends at graduation, and it’s sure to bring tears when you listen.

At the same time, it gives you strength—the resolve to keep doing your best, remembering you even as we each head down our own paths after graduation.

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March 9Fujimaki Ryota

March 9

Music that gently wraps the days we spent together and our cherished memories is perfect for the start of graduation, isn’t it? This is the solo version by Ryota Fujimaki of the song Remioromen released in March 2004.

Set to a calm tempo, it portrays the radiance of a new beginning.

Through images of cherry blossoms that come to mind when you close your eyes and metaphors of light illuminating the future, it conveys not only the sorrow of parting but also the feelings of setting off on a journey filled with hope.

Originally written to celebrate a friend’s wedding, it became widely known as an insert song in the 2005 Fuji TV drama “1 Litre of Tears.” This version was released in 2017 as part of Ryota Fujimaki’s solo work.

If you pair it with a message of gratitude or a memory video with friends, it may make those irreplaceable moments even more moving.

Sakura RabbitKawasaki Takaya

Takanori Kawasaki - Sakura Usagi [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Takaya Kawasaki’s “Sakura Usagi” is a ballad that vividly captures the wavering emotions at the milestone of graduation.

Comparing timid feelings to a rabbit, its lyrics, sprinkled with bittersweetness, color the sentimental scenes of a graduation ceremony.

The gentle sound of the acoustic guitar evokes a quiet classroom and naturally brings tears to your eyes.

Beyond romance, it also conveys feelings for family and mentors, serving as an encouraging message for those taking their first steps forward on a new journey at graduation.

With its moving melody, it will be etched deeply in the heart as a keepsake of graduation.

Friend ~Time to Depart~yuzu

Yuzu “Friend ~The Time of Departure~”

Some people may not really feel that they’re graduating, but on the day of the ceremony the sadness builds and the tears start to flow—many can relate.

And when you think about what’s saddest of all, it’s probably parting with friends.

This Yuzu song resonates deeply with those feelings.

Released in 2013, “Tomodachi ~Tabidachi no Toki~” is a standard graduation song, beloved as a choral piece, and also known for being featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta.” It’s a song that makes you cry when you listen to it, and one you’ll want to dedicate to your best friends with all your heart.

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My WayMirei Touyama

Mirei Touyama 'My Way'

How about a song that’s a little different from the usual graduation tunes—one that really pushes you to look forward? This is the title track from Mirei Toyama’s first album “My Way,” released in 2016.

The song was produced by Shota Shimizu, also known for “Dear My Boo.” While many graduation songs dwell on quiet, reflective feelings, this one makes images of “taking a step forward” and “believing in yourself and moving ahead” well up inside you.

I recommend it as a track that lets you embrace graduation positively.

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