RAG MusicGraduation
A lovely graduation song

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

The graduation ceremony is held to bid farewell to cherished teammates and coaches.

It’s a major event where you look back on how hard you’ve worked so far and send off friends who are taking their next step.

For parents, it might also be a moment to reflect and think, “Our child has grown so much.” In this article, we’ll introduce moving, tear-jerking songs that are perfect for a graduation ceremony.

Please consider performing these classic Japanese tracks that celebrate new beginnings during the ceremony or using them as background music.

[Farewell] A Collection of Moving, Tear-Jerking Japanese Songs Recommended for Graduation Ceremonies (41–50)

together; along with; bothKis-my-ft2

Kis-My-Ft2 / “Together” Music Video - YouTube Edit -
together; along with; bothKis-my-ft2

All activities—like school club activities, community volunteering, and Boy Scouts—come to an end.

In spring, many people probably leave due to graduation or moving up to the next level.

If you’re looking for a song packed with gratitude, a big recommendation is “Tomoni” by Kis-My-Ft2, also known as Kisumai.

The opening, like reading a letter, is moving, and the lyrics are excellent—plainly expressing the desire to stay connected: “We sometimes clashed over little things, but we’ll always be friends, right?” This gentle, restrained side of Kis-My-Ft2, different from their usual idol-like vibe, is sure to move listeners—even those who aren’t fans.

Perfect as BGM for a farewell or retirement ceremony.

Taki no namida pin ku
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You are not aloneDUFF

DUFF / You’re Not Alone ~Connected Feelings~ present for Tokiwagi Gakuen High School
You are not aloneDUFF

DUFF’s “Hitori Janai” (“You’re Not Alone”) is a song about the belief that even if we go our separate ways from here, our bond will never change.

Released in 2011, it was featured on a soccer news program and used in a car commercial.

Up to now, you and your teammates have surely supported each other and overcome many challenges.

From here on, even if you walk your path alone, your bond will keep you from ever being truly by yourself—this song warms the heart with that feeling.

Sing it together at the graduation ceremony and once again feel how precious your teammates are.

SAKI
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BOYKing Gnu

King Gnu’s “BOY” conveys the feeling of cheering on the futures of children graduating from their teams.

Released in 2021, the song was chosen as the opening theme for the anime Ranking of Kings.

Its distinctive, modern sound leaves a strong impression, blending a classical-like atmosphere with King Gnu’s signature technical edge.

The lyrics express a wish: whether you keep smiling as you work hard, or push on while worn down by frustration and pain, it’s all wonderful—so no matter what happens, walk your own path.

It carries a message that only parents and younger teammates, who have watched your efforts all along, can truly convey.

SAKI
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cherry blossomKobukuro

Kobukuro’s “Sakura,” a beloved staple for cherry blossom and graduation songs, has remained popular since its 2005 release, when it was chosen as the theme song for the drama Ns’ Aoi.

As a song for graduation from a team or club, it’s perfect for graduating members to sing themselves.

It’s also fitting for parents and underclassmen to sing as they send off the graduates, with the wish: “May you continue to walk forward strongly, like cherry blossoms in bloom.” It conveys the hope that they will cherish their dreams and goals as they move on in life.

SAKI
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Tomorrow, again[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Tomorrow, Again (MV)
Tomorrow, again[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] is a four-piece rock band that enjoys popularity across a wide range of listeners thanks to their rock sound that embraces diverse approaches and their catchy songs.

Their 15th single, “Ashita, Mata,” which was used as the CM song for Clorets’ “Refresh and Move Forward” campaign, opens with a memorable guitar riff that really sticks in your ears.

Its message—urging us to stoke the fading passion that wanes as we grow older—may resonate with the memories that come to mind at a graduation ceremony.

It’s a refreshing rock tune whose ensemble balances a sense of floating with driving momentum, making for an irresistibly pleasant listen.

Hoshino Takashi
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MiracleGReeeeN

GReeeeN’s “Kiseki” is a song that lets you express gratitude to the teammates who have overcome everything together with you.

Released in 2008, it was used as the theme song for the drama ROOKIES.

Listening to the lyrics—which depict how every moment, from the days you all walked together to the encounters with teammates with whom you shared victory, is something wonderful—brings back all kinds of memories.

And by singing it together, those memories will shine even brighter in your heart.

SAKI
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Thank youikimonogakari

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video
Thank youikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari’s “Arigatou” is a song through which graduating members can express their gratitude to the parents, juniors, and teammates who have supported them.

Released in 2010, it was used as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Gegege no Nyobo.

Around children who work hard in games and practice, there are many people who support them in various ways—making bento lunches, washing uniforms, and more.

Of course, managers and coaches, even while speaking sternly at times, are firmly rooting for them as well.

In that spirit of thanking all these different people, why not sing this song?

SAKI
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