[2026] Uplifting Songs for Graduation: J-POP Graduation Songs and Anthems

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri

Sakura Clear Skies

Singer-songwriter Yuuri, who rose to prominence with the record-breaking hit Dry Flower and captivates listeners with his earnest vocals that never let go, delivers a piece whose beautiful piano-and-strings melody tugs at the heartstrings.

Many listeners will likely find their own memories overlapping with the lyrics—filled with gratitude toward parents and friends—and feel their hearts swell.

Released digitally in February 2021 and later included on his long-awaited first album, Ichi, the track was created after he received an email from a fan who was graduating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Its warm message, which makes everyday life feel precious, is sure to gently encourage graduates as they take their first steps forward.

sunflowerAdo

[Ado] Sunflower

This song, which feels as strong as a flower stretching straight up toward the summer blue sky, gives a powerful push to graduates leaping into a new world! Sung by Ado, “Himawari” is a track filled with earnest feelings of wanting to get closer to someone you admire and a forward-looking message about changing your timid self.

Written and composed by singer-songwriter Mewhan and released in July 2023, it was penned as the theme song for the TBS drama “18/40: Dreams and Love If We’re Together.” Different from Ado’s previous intense image, her warm, expansive vocals here truly resonate.

It’s a supportive anthem that stands by anyone taking a step toward their dreams despite their fears and gives them courage—be sure to listen to it on the day of your new departure.

CorrectRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Live Video from “ANTI ANTI GENERATION TOUR 2019”]

The song “Seikai (Answer)” by RADWIMPS is what I’d like to send to graduates who have finished a student life full of small worries and joys.

I believe you learned more from your relationships with friends and the people you liked than from your studies.

You’ll find yourself relating to the lyrics packed with precious memories of student life and the regrets of wishing you’d done things differently back then.

And it encourages you by reminding you that graduation isn’t the end, but the starting line.

Take on the challenges you couldn’t overcome before, and find your own answers in the life ahead!

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IchibanboshiSnow Man

Snow Man “Ichibanboshi” Rec Video

There are nights when you just feel like letting out your worries, aren’t there? In moments like that, Snow Man’s track gently stays by your side.

It’s included on the regular edition of their single “Brother Beat,” released in March 2022.

While the title track drew attention as the theme song for the movie Osomatsu-san, this coupling song has also been cherished by fans as a hidden gem.

It carries a warm message that embraces even the parts of you that can’t smile well or that shed tears, without denying them—weakness and all—and it truly resonates in the heart.

The members’ voices overlap beautifully, giving you a comforting sense that they’re right beside you, cheering you on.

It’s a song I especially hope graduating students, who are stepping forward into the unknown with some anxiety, will listen to.

GraduationKobukuro

Kobukuro “Graduation”

It’s an emotional ballad that evokes scenes from our school days—like the view from the classroom window and the blackboard.

The lyrics carry not only the sadness of parting but also hope for the future that’s about to begin, gently encouraging those who are stepping onto a new path.

Created by Kobukuro, known for their beautiful harmonies, the song was released in March 2020 as their 31st single.

They deliberately chose not to attach any tie-ins, producing it with the pure wish that it would be sung at ceremonies.

It was later included on the album “Star Made” and has since become a springtime staple.

Listen to it while reflecting on days spent with friends, and you’re sure to be filled with gratitude.

It’s a warm, uplifting anthem that gives courage at life’s turning points.

18imase

【imase】18（MV）

There’s a song that gently gives you a push in this season when anxiety and anticipation mix as you take your first steps into adulthood.

“18,” released by imase in April 2023, was written as the theme song for Suntory’s web video “Otonajan • Koko kara dane 04.” It carries a warm message to the generation that experienced various restrictions during the pandemic, telling them that the real fun in life starts now.

Also included on the album “Bonsai,” the track’s modern beat and refreshing melody will give you the courage to face forward.

It’s a cheer song we hope everyone heading to graduation and diving into new environments will listen to.

far; distant; by farGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Haruka

When you set off to chase your dreams, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety.

Haruka, released by GReeeeN in May 2009, is a ballad that gently gives graduates a push forward.

Featured as the theme song for the hit film ROOKIES: Graduation, it drew attention at the time for deliberately setting aside the group’s signature rap style to carefully weave together melody and words.

The lyrics are filled with overflowing gratitude toward the parents who have supported you up to now, along with a strong resolve to become independent—sure to move listeners to tears.

It’s a song I especially want you to hear as you leave your parents’ home, stand on your own, and jump into a new world.

Carry your parents’ great love in your heart, and take your first step toward the future!