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

A Bouquet for YouUtada Hikaru

Hikaru Utada – A Bouquet for You

This is a ballad imbued with a warm message that gently accompanies the season of partings.

It paints a bittersweet yet beautiful scene of entrusting gratitude to a loved one and an inexpressible love to a “bouquet,” and offering it as a gift.

Released digitally in April 2016 as Hikaru Utada’s comeback work, it became familiar as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Totto-chan.

It resonated with those who had long awaited her return, earning high acclaim, including the Excellence Award at the 58th Japan Record Awards that year.

It’s perfect for moments like graduation ceremonies when you want to express thanks to teachers and friends.

This piece, which gently nudges you forward on a new path, will add color to a special day when you bid farewell with smiles through tears.

Sakura rollFunatsu Mahiro

Masato Funatsu “Sakura Roll” Official Lyric Video

With the arrival of spring, the song that makes me want to listen is Masho Funatsu’s “Sakura Roll,” released in March 2021.

The title is a coined word that blends “sakura” (cherry blossoms) with a smartphone’s “camera roll,” a clever touch that layers the fleeting season with the enduring nature of memories.

This piece, graced by the soothing sound of acoustic guitar, features high school singer Ren on chorus; the overlap of their voices creates a beautiful harmony where warmth and wistfulness coexist.

The lyrics capture a contemporary feeling—the desire to etch fleeting moments into the heart like photographs—and gently resonate with those facing graduation or a new chapter in life.

It’s a highly recommended song to send with gratitude, while reflecting on days spent with friends or a loved one.

Feel the windHamada Shogo

Feel the Wind / Shogo Hamada (Single/1979)

It’s a fast-paced rock number brimming with a sense of speed, raising expectations for a new season along with a refreshing breeze.

It’s sung by singer-songwriter Shogo Hamada, who stays true to his own style while focusing on live performances.

Released as a single in 1979, it was written specifically for a Nissin Cup Noodles commercial and became his first smash hit.

The song is also included on the album “Kimi ga Jinsei no Toki…”.

Its positive message affirming a free way of life and its light, catchy melody strongly encourage young people about to venture into society.

While facing harsh realities, it gently reminds you to relax your shoulders and be yourself.

It’s a classic you should listen to when you need the courage to dive into a new world.

See you again.THE FRANK VOX

THE FRANK VOX – Let's Meet Again [Music Video]

The four-member male vocal group THE FRANK VOX from the Kansai region released a song in January 2025 that marks their first-ever graduation track.

It resonates with a heartfelt message that not only captures the poignancy of parting, but also carries hope for future reunions.

Centered on their signature harmonies and call-and-response style, the warm, comforting sound is imbued with the wish that the song might become a “bookmark” for cherished moments.

Released as a pre-distribution single from the album VOX BOX 2, the track was also selected as the ending theme for ABC TV’s Bukatsu People: Zenryoku Ouen Bukapi! and the TBS/MBS network show Prebat!!.

It’s recommended for those struggling to choose music for graduation ceremonies or farewell gatherings, and for anyone seeking the perfect song to send off someone embarking on a new chapter.

GIVE ME FIVE !AKB48

[MV full] GIVE ME FIVE! / AKB48 [Official]

AKB48, who built an era as “idols you can go to meet” and hold numerous glittering records.

Released in February 2012, this song drew major attention for featuring the members taking on instrumental performance as the band “Baby Blossom.” Although the title doesn’t include the word “sakura,” it centers on springtime farewells and new departures, delivering an uplifting message that resonates: wipe your tears and share a high-five with a smile.

Its 34-minute, drama-style music video and use in various advertising campaigns also became hot topics.

Graduation season can feel somber, but this is a go-to cheer song that gives a push toward a new world—perfect for getting everyone fired up with friends at a reunion karaoke session.

About meMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – About Me

When it comes to a grand rock ballad that proudly sings of the wonder of life, this song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE stands out.

Even when you feel down comparing yourself to others, it carries a warm message that affirms every day as an irreplaceable miracle.

Written as the support song for the 97th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, it was included on their eighth single released in January 2019.

Its lyrics gently embrace those who have tasted tears in the world of competition, making it the perfect anthem to powerfully push students forward at the major milestone of graduation.

Listen to it especially when your efforts feel unrewarded or when you’re anxious about a new world.

It’s a gem of a masterpiece that helps you accept yourself just as you are and fills you with the courage to move ahead.

one’s true feelingssumika

sumika / Honne [Music Video] *Theme song for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Championship

A song by sumika that directly expresses a universal inner conflict—“Maybe I should give up, but I really don’t want to!”—that everyone has felt at least once.

It was written as the official support song for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

The dramatic arrangement woven by piano and band is striking, building from a quiet, introspective verse into a chorus where resolve crystallizes, stirring the heart.

More than just a typical cheer-up anthem, its appeal lies in portraying the determination to move forward only after first acknowledging one’s own weaknesses.

It’s perfect for high school students standing at the milestone of graduation, about to take a new step, reminding them of the immense importance of friends who strive alongside them.