RAG MusicGraduation
A lovely graduation song

[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!

[2026] Uplifting Songs to Hear at Graduation: J‑Pop Graduation Songs and Cheer Anthems (161–170)

Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro 「Best Friend」 Music Video (Short ver.)
Best FriendKiroro

Did you have any friends who were indispensable during your student life? “Best Friend” is a song dedicated to such a dear friend.

This track was released in 2001 by the female duo Kiroro and was used as the theme song for the 2001 NHK morning drama series Churasan.

Kiroro’s vocalist, Chiharu Tamashiro, is said to have written the song for Ayano Kinjo, the keyboardist who is both her bandmate and best friend.

It’s a song that conveys gratitude to a best friend who is always by your side, offering support.

Yoimachi Jēn
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KizunaORANGE RANGE

ORANGE RANGE’s “Kizuna” is a single released in November 2005.

It was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Be With You.” While the group is often associated with intense and upbeat tracks, they also have many great ballads.

This song reflects on feelings for friends they haven’t been able to meet.

The sound of the Okinawan sanshin wraps it in a gentle atmosphere, making it a wonderful song.

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OmoidamaKanjani∞

Omoidama – Kanjani Eight (Covered by ROYALcomfort)
OmoidamaKanjani∞

This is a song that was also the theme for “Netto Koshien” in 2014.

From the lyrics, you can feel the passionate determination of the high school baseball players who devote themselves wholeheartedly to the game.

The lyrics don’t just apply to baseball; they fit all club and school activities where you’ve worked hard together with your teammates, making it a perfect song for looking back on memories at graduation.

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Our TomorrowElefanto Kashimashi

Elephant Kashimashi – “Our Tomorrow”
Our TomorrowElefanto Kashimashi

When it comes to rousing anthems that give you a powerful push forward, this is the song.

Released in 2007, it’s Elephant Kashimashi’s 34th single.

It’s an encouraging anthem that seems to cheer on people across a wide range of ages—from teens to those in their 20s and 30s—and it lifts you up no matter the situation.

The lyrics, which feel like they’re speaking directly to a friend, are especially perfect for those of you graduating and stepping into a new world.

The experiences and friendships you gained during your school years are treasures.

This song makes you feel that way, and it seems like it can sweep away your anxieties about the future!

hiyori
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ROSEHANA

HANA / ROSE -Music Video-
ROSEHANA

HANA is a girl group formed through the audition program “No No Girls.” Their debut single, produced by Chanmina, is a track infused with a powerful determination to love oneself and bloom with pride no matter how harsh the circumstances.

Its lyrics—undaunted by the prospect of being hurt, pressing forward even when caked in mud—are sure to resonate deeply with anyone facing the turning point of graduation, carrying both anxiety and hope.

Released in April 2025, the song became a major sensation, making history as the first debut single by a female group to top the Billboard JAPAN Hot 100.

It’s a powerful anthem perfect for the season of new beginnings, giving you the courage to carve out your own future.

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In conclusion

The inspirational songs you want to hear during graduation season weave together the bittersweet feeling of parting and the hope for the future.

Each lyric sinks deep into your heart, vividly bringing back the time you spent with your friends.

The perfect song for the moment of departure will gently nudge you forward as you set off on a new path.

May your encounter with music that colors this important milestone become a light that illuminates the days to come.