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

Bye, my friendbokula.

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

This is a gem of a song from bokula., a rock band based in Hiroshima, filled with the sparkle and bittersweetness of youth.

The lyrics, which remind us that the time and memories spent with friends—things we took for granted—are never wasted, resonate deeply alongside Ei’s straightforward vocals.

Included on the mini-album “Seikatsu ni, Yorisoi.” released in May 2022, the track has won fervent support especially among junior and senior high school students, and has become beloved by many listeners, surpassing a total of 8.5 million streams.

It’s the perfect song for those moments when you’re facing the sadness of going your separate ways but want to reaffirm an unchanging bond.

Why not send this track to your cherished friends as a token of gratitude at the milestone of graduation?

Air on the G StringJ.S.Bach

Bach “Air on the G String”

In Japan, Johann Sebastian Bach is known as the “Father of Music,” and his influence extends far beyond the realm of classical music.

A diligent musician who absorbed a wide range of styles, Bach created works that remain highly popular today across genres like jazz, rock, and club music, and are frequently quoted.

Among them, Air on the G String is especially beloved for its serene, supremely graceful melody, and it’s a classic often played at graduation ceremonies as a processional piece.

Strictly speaking, the original is the second movement, Air, from Orchestral Suite No.

3 in D major, BWV 1068.

When it was arranged for solo violin, it was discovered that the melody could be played entirely on the violin’s G string, which led to the nickname “Air on the G String.” The beauty of the melody is unchanged, so it might be nice to use the original version as well.

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KOH-1

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spring melancholyMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Spring Melancholy

The title Harushū refers to the poignant, melancholy feelings of spring.

With a melody and lyrics that fit the title perfectly, this graduation song conveys an indescribable emotion.

Written by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s vocalist, Omori, the day after his own graduation, the song captures the genuine feelings of a graduate.

Its calmly spoken-like delivery makes it a great choice for an entrance song at the ceremony.

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utatane

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HarukaYOASOBI

YOASOBI 'Haruka' Official Music Video

Rira Ikuta, who has also been very active in her solo work lately, is of course ikura, the vocalist of YOASOBI that everyone knows.

Even when it’s not a YOASOBI track, ikura’s voice is still so easy on the ears.

The song where her vocals shine especially bright is Haruka.

It’s a true “listening” piece that keeps a bit of distance from YOASOBI’s usual sense of speed and exhilaration.

Above all, the lyrics that say “Thank you for all the wonderful memories” make it perfect for graduation ceremonies! It might be just right as the slightly tear-jerking BGM for the graduates’ exit.

Spring ThiefYorushika

Yorushika – Spring Thief (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

Have you ever seen the promotional video for “Spring Thief”? It’s a wonderful piece where real scenery—like Showa Kinen Park and the Enoden railway—appears as animation.

n-buna, the composer for Yorushika, has said about the song “Spring Thief,” “(To paraphrase…) it’s about the spring wind; because it scatters the cherry blossoms, it’s a ‘spring thief.’” The lyrics, which can be read as saying “Time passes little by little, but there’s nothing to be sad about,” feel perfect for a high school graduation ceremony, where students take a step into a new life.

Please give it a listen!

JourneyFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – Tabiji (Official Video)

It’s a soul-stirring song by Fujii Kaze that warmly watches over you on life’s journey.

Its nostalgic sound and Fujii’s gentle vocals resonate and wrap the listener’s heart.

Written as the theme song for TV Asahi’s Thursday drama “Nijiiro Karte,” it was released digitally in March 2021.

The lyrics, aligned with the drama’s theme of “coexistence,” are filled with life’s joys and pains, growth and learning.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to at life’s turning points—like graduation or when stepping into a new environment.

It will surely give you a gentle push forward.

KanadeSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

A Skimama Switch song that beautifully portrays farewell, reunion, and growth set to a moving melody! It begins with a parting scene at the ticket gate and carefully weaves a relationship that changes over time.

You’ll surely relate to the story of two people who remain connected forever through music.

Released in March 2004, this track was also used as an insert song in the film “Rough.” It’s a song you’ll want to hear at graduations and life’s milestones—one that gently wraps your anxiety before stepping into a new environment.

Be sure to savor this heartwarming piece!