[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)
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.
Song of a FriendBUMP OF CHICKEN
It can feel a little embarrassing to thank a friend directly, can’t it? If that’s you, why not be honest with yourself at graduation? “Tomodachi no Uta” is a song that makes you want to say “thank you” to the friends who shared your school life.
Released by BUMP OF CHICKEN in 2011, it was featured in the film Doraemon: Nobita and the New Steel Troops—Winged Angels.
Its lyrics, which express the hope that your friends will remember you even if you’re apart, convey warmth and kindness.
After spending years together with friends, you’ve surely shared smiles, tears, and many moments.
It’s a song that will make you want to express your feelings to your friends as you graduate.
[2026] Cheer songs to listen to at graduation ceremonies. J-pop graduation songs and fight songs (101–110)
spin; weave; compose (e.g., a story)tota
A song by young singer-songwriter Tota that weaves delicate emotional expression with images of nature.
She entrusts her feelings to everyday scenes—sky, wind, clouds, and rainbows—singing of sorrow for lost love and the hope to look forward.
It’s a track that stays close to the listener’s heart and delivers fresh emotion.
Included on Tota’s first album, “oidaki,” released in February 2023, it has also drawn attention for surpassing 400 million total plays on social media.
Highly recommended as a song that offers courage and hope to graduates taking their next steps.
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.
GraduaterShiina Hekiru
Known for its powerful vocals and uplifting message that champions youth, this is a must-have fan favorite at Hekiru Shiina’s live shows.
It vividly portrays the protagonist’s feelings as they cherish bonds with friends and companions while stepping forward toward their own future.
Even when faced with setbacks and doubts, the unwavering will to keep looking ahead and fighting on resonates deeply, carried by a passionate melody.
Since its release in January 1998, it has been widely supported by fans and was included on the album “Baby Blue Eyes.” The guitar work featuring DAITA from SIAM SHADE further enhances the song’s appeal.
It’s a highly recommended track for anyone about to take a new step or for those who want to cheer on someone striving toward their dreams.
Perfect Sense DREAMERONE OK ROCK
It’s a 2010 song by ONE OK ROCK that mixes Japanese and English.
This track really catapulted their popularity, didn’t it? It seems to carry the message that convictions shouldn’t just be held—they should be spoken aloud.
As a piece that condenses both ONE OK ROCK’s musicality and their message, it’s supported by listeners across a wide range of ages.
GraduationTakahashi Yuu
When we talk about graduation, besides farewells and loneliness, there’s also anxiety and a faint sense of hope.
Listening to Yu Takahashi’s sincere way of singing that hazy hope and the sadness of the moment makes me want to belt it out at karaoke.
The lyrics work not only for graduation but also for moving to a new place, so I recommend it when you want to let your feelings out.