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

Bye-Good-ByeBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Bye-Good-Bye -Music Video-

Bye-Good-Bye teaches us that “goodbye” isn’t an ending, but the starting line toward our dreams.

Its melody, blending wistfulness with freshness, lifts listeners’ spirits and helps them look forward.

Released digitally in March 2022 and as a CD single in May by the dance and vocal group BE:FIRST, the song was chosen as the theme for the Nippon TV morning drama “Before Saying Goodbye: Fantastic 31 Days.” Loved by many, it surpassed 200 million streams in 2024.

It sweeps away the anxiety of leaving familiar places and gives you the courage to wave with a smile.

It’s a song we especially hope graduating students—about to walk separate paths from their cherished friends—will listen to.

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.

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!

Us Again (Brass Band ver.)SG

We Again (Wind Ensemble ver.) – SG (Official Behind-the-Scenes Music Video)

This work weaves in themes of parting and reunion that symbolize the end of youth and a new beginning.

The hopeful lyrics of young people and the rich tones created by the Hanazono Tokuei High School Wind Ensemble deliver a moving experience.

Released in November 2024, it was also featured in Calorie Mate’s commercial supporting exam-takers.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to at moments when you step into a new stage of life—such as graduation or entrance exams.

SG’s warm vocals and the brilliant sound of the wind ensemble are sure to gently give you a push forward.

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.

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.

Go, Sakura! / Cheer up, Sakura!THE SUPER FRUIT

THE SUPER FRUIT – Sakura Fure Fure [Official Music Video]

THE SUPER FRUIT, who bill themselves as the “male version of the pure/wholesome type,” have been steadily expanding their fan base even after their breakthrough on social media.

Their second single, “Sakura Fure Fure,” released in March 2023, is a heartwarming cheer song that combines the springtime scene of falling cherry blossoms with the encouraging chant of “Fure Fure” (“Go! Go!”).

It was also chosen as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s Buzz Rhythm 02 for March, and the school-set video featuring dancers in pink school uniforms became a hot topic.

With lyrics that stand by those anxious about new beginnings and reassure you that it’s okay to stumble, the song is sure to be a strong ally for anyone graduating and setting off on a new path.

Boasting a refreshing sound that feels great to listen to, this gentle pop tune offers courage for the season of change.