[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 listen to at graduation ceremonies. J-pop graduation songs and fight songs (101–110)
Sense of Wondersumika
This song by the rock band sumika became known as a cram school (Shinken-Zemi) commercial tune, so it’s often seen as an exam-cheer anthem, but it also fits perfectly with graduation—a new beginning.
The lyrics carry a message: even though the unseen future can be full of anxieties and might tempt you to choose the safe road, keep moving toward what you truly want to do! For graduates about to start life in a new environment, it’s a track that can serve as an important guidepost.
If you’re a teacher looking for a song to dedicate to your graduating students, this one is especially recommended.
Bring it on, spring.non
An anthem cheering on those taking new steps with the arrival of spring, it carries a powerful, uplifting message.
The track was released digitally in January 2025, with the music video premiering at the same time.
The MV centers on a student band’s graduation performance, beautifully capturing the sparkle of youth.
It’s a particularly recommended song for anyone about to embark on a new chapter this spring.
Everyone, everyone is shining.Yugeda Kensuke
Riding on a cherry-blossom-colored breeze, this heartwarming song by Kensuke Yugeda gently sings of the hopeful arrival of spring.
It carries a message of encouragement for children taking their first steps forward, conveying a sense of anticipation for a shining future.
Its melody, expressing both endearing freshness and the courage to walk toward one’s dreams, tenderly nestles against the listener’s heart.
The piece is included on the album “Shiawase ni Naare” and is a beloved song performed at entrance ceremonies and welcome events for new students in elementary schools across Japan.
Since June 2018, it has been passed down in schools nationwide, and through more than 2,000 school concerts, Mr.
Yugeda has delivered it directly to children.
It is a springtime song brimming with joy, one we hope new students, teachers, and families will listen to.
Walking with youNovelbright
Walking with you by Novelbright is a cheering song that stands by your side as you embark on a new chapter.
As you look forward to the life ahead, there will surely be moments of excitement as well as anxiety.
In those times, Novelbright’s powerful melodies and lyrics will reach your heart and give you courage.
It’s easy to see why this song moved so many people that it was featured in the drama “Koisuru Shuumatsu Homestay 2020 Spring.” With its refreshingly clear vocals, it’s sure to give you a push as you take your first step toward a fresh start.
Beloved by many young people, Walking with you is a perfect listen for the milestone of graduation.
ANTENNAMrs. GREEN APPLE
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s song “ANTENNA” is perfectly suited for the moment of a new beginning like graduation.
Its moving melody and lyrics that empower you to move forward will serve as encouragement for graduates facing ever-changing days.
Chosen as the support song for Japan’s national team on Fuji TV’s “World Cup Volleyball 2023,” the track skillfully conveys the emotional blend of anxiety and anticipation.
It’s also a great choice to try at karaoke—truly a song befitting the season of departure.
Now, believe in yourself and take the first step onto a new path.
[2026] Cheer Songs to Hear at Graduation. J-POP Graduation Songs and Anthems (111–120)
sakura colorGReeeeN
GReeeeN’s 2013 track “Sakura Color” gives you the strength to do your best until the next time you meet your friends.
After graduation and leaving your hometown, there isn’t a single person who doesn’t feel anxious, right? Even if you step out into the world on your own to chase your dreams, anxiety is part of the deal.
Still, this song portrays the moment you take that first step forward for the sake of the dreams you want to fulfill.
Each person who shared their youth with you is living toward tomorrow’s future, fighting their own anxieties.
Hoping for the day we can all meet again with smiles, give this song a listen.
Our Starting LineHIPPY
This is an uplifting support song by HIPPY that delivers heartwarming vocals about the friendships of youth and the passion for pursuing goals.
It gently conveys the importance of bonds with friends and working hard toward your ambitions, while giving you the courage and hope to take a new step in life.
Released in August 2024, it was selected as the official support song for the 2025 National High School Comprehensive Sports Tournament.
Created together with high school students in Hiroshima Prefecture, the song is infused with the energy and dreams of young people.
It’s a track we hope everyone will listen to—not only those starting a new chapter, but anyone striving toward an important goal.
When you’re taking a step toward your dream or feeling anxious about a challenge, it will surely give you a push forward.