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

Brilliant RainKing Gnu

King Gnu – Rain Radiantly

King Gnu is a four-piece mixture rock band dominating the J-POP scene with each member’s high-level musicianship and a one-of-a-kind aesthetic.

“Ame Sansan,” included on their sixth single “Stardom,” is a breezy, floating-feel track that was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama Old Rookie.

Its lyrics, which evoke hopes passed on to the next generation and a tailwind toward the future, make it perfect as background music for graduation ceremonies.

It’s a heart-stirring rock tune that, while distinctly featuring King Gnu’s dramatic arrangement, also carries an undeniably pop sensibility.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Youth and a momentmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Youth and a Moment” MV

Macaroni Enpitsu is a four-piece rock band garnering attention for pop melodies built on complex, development-rich arrangements.

Their digital-only single “Seishun to Isshun,” used as the theme song for McDonald’s Japan’s 500 Yen Value Set campaign “Konna jikan ga, GOCHISOU da,” opens with a lyrical guitar phrase that evokes a sentimental mood.

Its message—reflecting on the preciousness of our youthful days realized only after becoming adults—may resonate with the memories rushing through at a graduation ceremony as well.

It’s a piercing rock tune that reminds us of the value of everyday moments we once took for granted.

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Hoshino Takashi

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A bouquet for meAdo

[Ado] Bouquet for Me Official Audio

This is a pep song overflowing with positive energy by Ado, who enjoys immense popularity as a vocalist.

Released in March 2025, many people likely recognize it as the song from Japan Coca-Cola’s Georgia commercial.

With the pop sound characteristic of HoneyWorks, who produced the track, and a message that affirms who you are and gives you the courage to move forward, it really resonates.

Also included on the album “Ado’s Best Album,” this song is perfect for cheering on those taking a step toward the future.

Whether you want to gently nudge someone who’s feeling a bit anxious, or sing it with a smile at a farewell gathering, it’s sure to convey warmth.

Laughing and falling downHanbaato Hanbaato

Humbert Humbert “Laughing and Falling Down” (Official Music Video) [Song Performed at the 76th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen]

A simple, warm folk song by Humbert Humbert that gently nudges those setting off on a new journey.

The unadorned vocals and acoustic sound quietly complement the bittersweet yet warm atmosphere of a farewell gathering.

This work has a charm that seems to affirm the daily routines that bring both tears and laughter, revealing a different expression each time you listen.

Produced as the theme song for the NHK morning drama “Bakebake,” airing from September 2025, it carries the air of Matsue, the setting of the show, and sinks softly into the heart.

Why not choose it as background music for sending off dear friends, while feeling bonds that remain unchanged even across distance?

tear(s)Ketsumeishi

Ketsumeishi 'Namida' (Tears)

How about easing the sadness of parting from everyone by belting out this song together? “Namida” (“Tears”) by Ketsumeishi, released in 2004, is a track whose gentle melody warmly embraces the tears that fall.

Tears shed after losing a game, joyful tears after winning, frustrated tears when things don’t go well, and tears of sorrow when parting from friends.

This song gives you permission to let your emotions flow honestly as tears—without thinking it’s the last time so you shouldn’t cry, or that crying is embarrassing.

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SAKI

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Words of FarewellGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Words of Gift

A song filled with passionate resolve to overcome the sadness of parting and vow to meet again.

GReeeeN’s “Okuru Kotoba” powerfully pushes forward those who carry the bonds of friendship into the future.

It’s not a cover of the classic song with the same title, but an original single released in October 2018.

Written as the theme song for the film “Run! T High School Basketball Club,” it serves as a cheer anthem that ties in with the story’s themes of setbacks and comebacks.

It’s the kind of anthem that makes you want to link arms and sing with the friends you shared your club and school days with.

It’s sure to give courage and hope to men setting off into a new world.

Highly recommended as moving background music for graduations and farewell parties.

Gate of GloryHirai Dai

Dai Hirai / The Door of Glory (Music Video)

Dai Hirai, whose heartwarming music rooted in surf music is beloved by a wide range of generations.

Released digitally in July 2022, “Eikou no Tobira” (The Door to Glory) was created as the “2022 Summer High School Baseball Cheer Song” and the theme for the TV program Nettō Kōshien.

Its lyrics affirm not only wins and losses, but also the single-minded effort and time invested along the way—sentiments that are likely to resonate with those standing at the milestone of a graduation from their team.

Later included on the best-of album LOVE＋PEACE, this song is an encouraging anthem wrapped in gentle, acoustic tones.

It’s highly recommended to play during the ceremony as a track that honors past achievements and gives a supportive push to children taking flight into a new world.