[2026] Uplifting Songs for Graduation: J-POP Graduation Songs and Anthems
After graduation, many of you may find yourselves living apart from the friends you’ve spent so much time with and the family who has supported you, as you move on to higher education or start working.
Perhaps excitement about taking your first steps toward your dream coexists in your heart with the anxiety of wondering if things will go well.
At times like these, when you might be feeling a little discouraged, you want to listen to uplifting songs that cheer you on, don’t you?
We’ve gathered songs filled with warm encouragement to give a gentle push to you, who are setting off at graduation, and to your dear friends.
Tune in to these tracks that will give you courage as you take your next step forward!
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[2026] Cheer songs to hear at graduation. J-pop graduation songs and anthems (91–100)
Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster

It’s always sad to part ways with classmates and clubmates you met during school life.
“Itsuka Kono Namida ga” is a song that makes you want to treasure the time spent with those important to you.
It’s included on Little Glee Monster’s 2018 release “juice” and was chosen as the support song for the 96th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.
The sentimental melody and their vocals celebrate the days we’ve had until now.
This song can make you realize that graduates carry countless memories on their backs and that those days were joyful enough to bring you to tears.
Please give it a listen.
GO!!!FLOW

It’s a classic song that you can get hyped and sing along to with friends.
The track conveys a resolve to chase dreams together with your crew, and it became famous as a theme song for the TV anime NARUTO.
With its rap parts and energetic vibe, it’s easy to sing even for people who aren’t confident singers.
It’s a work that epitomizes FLOW’s musical style, and its exhilarating melody and powerful lyrics have captured the hearts of many listeners, making it one of their most popular songs.
At least this / Just this (one thing)WANIMA

Even though it’s a graduation ceremony, if you want to say goodbye cheerfully with a smile instead of getting sentimental, this is the song I’d love you to hear: WANIMA’s “Kore Dake wa.” Its fast-paced hardcore sound and straightforward encouragement that truly reaches the listener’s heart make it a moving track.
When you hear it live, the atmosphere in the venue instantly ignites.
It’s one of their signature songs, distilling WANIMA’s musicality and appeal.
Don’t give upZARD

This gem of a song, woven from a moving melody and a powerful message, was released to the world in January 1993 as one of ZARD’s signature works.
With a gentle, warm vocal delivery, it wraps words of encouragement for a loved one and conveys a deep affection that says, “Even if we’re far apart, my heart is by your side.” Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Shiratori Reiko de Gozaimasu!” it has continued to garner broad support, being used at various sporting events and on the 24-Hour Television charity program.
As a cheering anthem that encourages and emboldens those striving toward their dreams, it’s a staple at school events such as sports days and graduation ceremonies.
Izumi Sakai’s clear, translucent voice and the heartwarming melody offer solace to those carrying worries and give them the strength to look ahead.
Words of FarewellKaientai
This song is characterized by its warm vocals and lyrics that resonate with the heart.
While portraying the emotions of a man who has experienced heartbreak, it conveys the importance of trusting others and maintaining a positive outlook.
It’s a song that gives you the courage to overcome sadness and take a new step forward.
Released in November 1979, it was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Mr.
Kinpachi in Class 3B.” It received high acclaim, winning the Gold Prize at the 21st Japan Record Awards that same year.
It’s a perfect track to listen to at graduations or times of new beginnings.
It’s also recommended for those feeling anxious about a new environment or those who have experienced parting with someone dear.
Ruts (Wadachi)Kobukuro

It’s a song to cheer on those who are heading down a path no one has ever taken.
Walking toward a future you chose yourself can be scary, but this track blows those fears away.
With the duo’s powerful vocals and melody, you’re sure to feel courageous.
If you laugh at the skywacci

Painted with a youthful landscape where wistfulness and hope intersect, “Sora ni Waraeba” is a song that resonates not only during graduation season but at every turning point in life.
With wacci’s heartfelt melody and lyrics, it adds color to the seasons of parting and new encounters.
The song holds a strong will to overcome painful experiences and deep gratitude for the cherished friends with whom we spent our days, forging a powerful bond with listeners’ own memories.
While looking back on the efforts made so far, it gives you the courage to take a new step forward and becomes a source of support.
This track is recommended for everyone who poured their hearts into club activities or studies.
It’s the perfect BGM for graduation and farewell gatherings—be sure to try singing it at karaoke.



