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)

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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[Farewell] A selection of moving, tear-jerking Japanese songs recommended for graduation ceremonies (51–60)

Time ParadoxVaundy

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

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.

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Fly Highmilet

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

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.

SAKI
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Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai

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

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.

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Don’t give upZARD

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

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.

SAKI
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One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

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!

SAKI
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Friend ~Time to Depart~yuzu

Yuzu “Friend ~The Time of Departure~”
Friend ~Time to Depart~yuzu

The hardest part of graduation season is saying goodbye to the close friends you’ve made, isn’t it? When you think back on the tough club practices and the days you got through entrance exam study together, your chest tightens with emotion.

A song I recommend that gathers those precious memories into one album is “Yū ~Tabidachi no Toki~” by Yuzu.

Its lyrics are filled with gratitude for the past and a message that we’ll stay friends from here on out, making it a perfect track for a graduation movie’s BGM.

With this song, all those dazzling memories will keep your bond with your friends connected forever.

Kado(guchi) Shichigatsu
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