[Touching] Entrance/Exit Songs for Graduation Ceremonies: Classics & the Latest BGM

Kitearashi

ARASHI – Kite [Official Music Video]

A grand message song by Arashi that you’ll want to give to friends setting off on a new chapter.

Like a kite catching the wind and soaring high, it portrays the resolve to move forward despite uncertainty.

There’s a warmth in this song that gently watches over that figure and gives a soft push from behind.

The single “Kite,” released in 2020, was written and composed by Kenshi Yonezu as the “NHK 2020 Song.” It was also aired on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” making it beloved across generations.

Parting with friends is lonely, but the sentiment embedded in this work—“we’re connected no matter where we are”—will surely reach their hearts.

If everyone sings it together at a farewell party, it becomes the perfect cheer, powerfully supporting the future of the one setting out.

footprint(s)Little Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster “Ashiato” Music Video

This song offers an encouraging message to people standing at a crossroads in life.

While reflecting on past experiences, it sings of the courage to believe in yourself and take a step forward.

It was chosen as the required piece for the NHK National School Music Competition (N-Con) 2020/2021 Junior High School Division, and was also broadcast on Minna no Uta.

It’s the perfect song for those who feel uneasy in a new environment or are searching for their own path.

Carried by Little Glee Monster’s powerful vocals, its words are sure to give you a gentle push forward.

Friend ~Time of Departure~yuzu

Yuzu “Friend ~The Time of Departure~”

Yuzu’s songs are all moving and full of energy, aren’t they? Among them, the one that especially carries the scent of youth is “Tomodachi ~Tabidachi no Toki~.” It starts off with a gentle, intimate delivery, and then the grand chorus that follows is simply the best.

Just imagining graduates exiting to this song makes me feel like I’m going to cry—please enjoy this kind of song.

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Murakami Shinpei

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horizonback number

back number – Horizon

This ballad by back number portrays the setbacks and hardships encountered while chasing one’s dreams, as well as the strength to overcome them.

It was created as an encouragement song for high school students whose Inter-High Championships were canceled during the COVID-19 pandemic.

With lyrics that gently offer support, it resonates with those carrying lost hopes and sorrow.

It was surprise-released on YouTube in August 2020 and officially released the following August.

Widely embraced by listeners—such as holding the top spot on streaming charts for nine consecutive weeks—this song serves as a source of empathy and comfort for anyone who has experienced setbacks or failure.

It’s a track that will quietly give a push to graduates stepping into a new stage of life.

Last SongOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Last Song [Studio Live Session]

A heart-stirring song that weaves together a bittersweet farewell and the fragility of time.

It delicately captures the loneliness of the moment the curtain falls, while finding hope in the warmth of the words “see you again.” Its philosophical perspective—“things are beautiful because they are finite”—will resonate deeply with listeners.

This piece was also featured as an insert song in the Fuji TV special drama “I Can Only See You Three More Times.” The lyrics, which evoke memories of summer, are sure to comfort those lingering in the afterglow of graduation.

It’s the perfect track for looking back on cherished moments with close friends as you stand on the brink of a new beginning!

We againSG

Us, Again – SG (Official Lyric Video)

Sogyeong, also known as SG, is also active as the vocalist of A11youDays, a group made up of multinational members.

Many of you may have heard the name because of the buzz from his videos of “A Korean tried singing in Japanese.” Since he often appears simply as SG, there may be many people wondering, “Who is SG?” His song “Bokura Mata” is a heartwarming track that livens up graduation ceremonies.

The down-to-earth lyrics that reflect high schoolers’ real feelings really tug at your heartstrings.

It’s a strongly recommended song—one of those “When in doubt, pick this track!!” choices!

far; distant; by farGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Haruka

A celebrated song by GReeeeN that also served as the theme for the film ROOKIES: Graduation.

Centered on the great love of the people who are always by your side, it’s a motivational anthem for those leaving home and setting out on a journey of self-discovery—one that’s impossible to listen to without tears.

The lyrics are sprinkled with relatable episodes and words drawn from the members’ real-life experiences, making it a song that’s sure to move anyone who hears it.

It’s perfect not only for graduation—the moment of setting off into a new world—but also for life’s many milestones.

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hiyori

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