[Farewell] A selection of moving, tear-jerking Japanese songs recommended for graduation ceremonies

Time ParadoxVaundy

Time Paradox (Theme Song of the Movie Doraemon: Nobita’s Earth Symphony) / Vaundy: MUSIC VIDEO

This song portrays hope for the future and the emotion of parting.

Released in February 2024 as a standalone track, it was written specifically as the theme song for a popular animated film.

Despite its simple structure, its highly message-driven lyrics resonate with a wide audience, from children to adults.

Coupled with Vaundy’s gentle vocals, it has become a memorable masterpiece that leaves a deep impression on listeners.

It’s perfect for moments of new beginnings, such as graduation or team send-off ceremonies.

While feeling the bonds with your companions and the joy of growth, you can engrave hope for the future in your heart.

Be sure to listen to it during farewells with someone important.

Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai

Dai Hirai / The Way Home in March (Lyric Video)

This is a memorable ballad that warmly portrays scenes of partings and new departures.

With his gentle voice, Dai Hirai carefully sings about the delicate emotional sway—where joy and loneliness mingle—felt at the moment of setting off.

Expressing the complex feelings that come with life’s milestones such as moving up a grade or graduating, alongside tranquil spring scenery, the piece is also notable for its elegant arrangement of piano and strings.

Released digitally in February 2022, it is included on the album “LOVE+PEACE.” It’s a song that resonates with the arrival of spring, offering comfort to those embarking on a new environment or experiencing farewells with dear friends.

Fly Highmilet

milet “Fly High” MUSIC VIDEO (NHK Winter Sports Theme Song)

Milet’s “Fly High” conveys the message that even after graduating from the team, you can spread your wings toward a wonderful future.

Included on her 2022 album “visions,” the song was used as NHK’s winter sports theme.

The lyrics express the hope that no matter what lies ahead, you can soar toward the future you envision—so keep going.

Its fresh, uplifting sound that seems to pierce the sky and Milet’s soaring vocals feel as if they illuminate the bright future of the graduating members.

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Don’t give upZARD

Don't give up (What a beautiful memory ~forever you~)

A classic cheer song: ZARD’s “Makenaide” (“Don’t Give Up”).

Released in 1993, the track was used as the ending theme for the drama ‘Reiko Shiratori de Gozaimasu!’ and is always sung during 24-Hour Television to cheer on the charity marathon.

Its lyrics, which convey the message “Keep going without being defeated by any adversity,” make it perfect for encouraging children who are graduating from their teams and setting out on new paths.

It’s also recommended to have everyone sing it together at the graduation ceremony to send off the graduating members.

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One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “One More”

We fought until the last second… Having made it through each day, we can keep giving our all for our own futures! The song that makes me feel that way is Funky Monkey Babys’ “Ato Hitotsu,” whose CD jacket features professional baseball player Masahiro Tanaka.

Released in 2010, this song was used as the theme for various high school baseball programs.

Reading the lyrics brings back memories of those sweat-drenched days.

If we’ve worked that hard every single day, we’ll be fine from here on out, too!

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