[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 you want to hear at graduation. J-pop graduation songs and anthems (121–130)
My friend — from here on out, forever…Ketsumeishi
A music group named after a traditional Chinese medicinal herb—associated with “expelling everything”—Ketsumeishi releases their 29th single.
Chosen as the theme song for the animated film Crayon Shin-chan: Fast Asleep! The Great Assault on the Dreaming World, the track features a driving four-on-the-floor kick drum beat and warm string tones that lift the spirits.
Its lyrics, depicting friendships that remain unchanged even after graduation, soothe the anxiety of impending separation.
With a message that our bonds won’t change, so let’s part with a smile for now, it’s a song that brightens graduation ceremonies and gives you a gentle push at life’s crossroads.
YELL ~Yell~Kobukuro
This is a Kobukuro song that affirms the experiences you’ve accumulated so far and gives you the courage to move forward into the future.
With a gentle sound centered on acoustic guitar, the strumming at the beginning evokes the image of taking steady steps ahead.
While empathizing with the anxiety anyone might feel when heading into a new place, it conveys the message that taking the first step leads to a brighter future.
It’s a song that seems to give you the strength to overcome hardships—strength that’s essential for carving out your future.
Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri
A song that truly resonates during graduation season is Yuuri’s “Sakurabare.” Yuuri, known for “Dry Flower” and “Kakurenbo,” released this track digitally in 2021.
Perfect for closing out one’s youth, the song carries a moving message of gratitude to one’s parents.
Yuuri’s emotional vocals powerfully convey that thankfulness and are sure to capture listeners’ hearts.
As you look back on bonds with friends and family at graduation and take your next step forward, this song will be a source of encouragement for many.
On the day of departure…Kawashima Ai
Ai Kawashima’s “Tabidachi no Hi ni…” is a heartwarming ballad.
Its bittersweet yet beautiful piano melody enhances the moving scenes of graduation ceremonies.
The lyrics are filled with memories from student days, evoking moments of friendship and parting.
No matter what feelings you carry as you leave your school behind, this song will help you engrave the days you spent together in your heart.
It’s great for chorus performances, as background music, or to sing at karaoke.
It’s a wonderful song that both celebrates a new beginning and reminds you of the true value of student life.
[2026] Cheer songs to listen to at graduation. J-POP graduation songs and fight songs (131–140)
At any timeYugeda Kensuke
Set to a gentle melody that feels familiar to everyone, Kensuke Yugeda’s song expresses gratitude at the milestone age of ten.
It warmly conveys precious memories with friends and heartfelt thanks to family and teachers.
Its tender, embracing tune resonates deeply with listeners and invites empathy.
The piece is included on the album “Dream & Dream: Yume o Tsunagou,” and it has been selected for inclusion in elementary school music textbooks starting in 2024.
Mr.
Yugeda, who holds school concerts nationwide, has performed over 2,000 times and continues composing with children in mind.
It is a song you’ll want to sing with care when expressing gratitude to important people, such as at a “Half-Coming-of-Age Ceremony” or end-of-year school events.
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.
Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46
Hinatazaka46’s new song is a poignant work that portrays the bittersweet feelings of love with graduation as its theme.
The lyrics capture memories that resurface in the cherry blossom season and the regret of not being able to confess, resonating deeply with listeners.
It’s the group’s 13th single, released on January 29, 2025, with Nao Kosaka as the center.
The music video, themed “A Parade that Heralds Spring,” has also been released—be sure to check it out.
It’s a perfect track for the graduation season, recommended not only for students but also for anyone who wants to look back on their youth with a touch of nostalgia.