[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] Uplifting Songs to Hear at Graduation: J-POP Graduation Songs and Fight Songs (41–50)
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This piece, released in August 2020 by a three-piece band from Gunma Prefecture, is well known for the story behind its creation: it was made for high school students who lost their stage when the 2020 Inter-High was canceled.
It gently stays close to the frustration of efforts that don’t pay off and the unreasonable sorrow that follows, delivering a message that knowing pain makes us kinder to others—one that deeply moves listeners.
While holding the sense of loss from shattered dreams and goals, it carries a warmth that suggests those very experiences will become the nourishment that shapes your future self.
Even as graduates face a reality that doesn’t go as planned, this song will softly support them as they take their first steps down a new path.
For a cherished new beginning, why not offer the deep love woven by back number?
[2026] Cheer songs to listen to at graduation. J-POP graduation songs and anthems (51–60)
The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 46
This is the song you’ll want to listen to when you want to carry not only the sadness of parting but also gratitude for having met.
Released in November 2016 as Nogizaka46’s 16th single, it is also known as Nanami Hashimoto’s final single as center.
It became the group’s first million-certified release and was performed at the 67th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that year.
It’s a track especially suited for those facing graduation and feeling anxious about being separated from dear friends.
Its warm message sinks in, teaching us that “goodbye” isn’t merely an ending but a stepping stone to becoming stronger.
As a cherished anthem that gives you the courage to take a new step, why not send it to a friend who’s setting out on a new journey?
At dawn again today, with cherry blossoms dancingCHiCO with HoneyWorks
From the intro, “Kyou mo Sakura Mau Akatsuki ni” evokes the unique emotional sway of graduation season, where the loneliness of parting mingles with the hope of a new departure.
It’s a work by the collaboration unit CHiCO with HoneyWorks, featuring CHiCO—who won the grand prix in a nationwide audition focused on Vocaloid and anime songs—and the creator team HoneyWorks.
Set to an up-tempo melody, it sings that graduation is by no means a farewell, but rather the starting point for the future ahead.
It’s a graduation song that makes you feel positive as you listen.
Believe In YourselfAbe Mao
A rock number that gives you the courage to move forward on a new path, “Believe In Yourself” is a refreshing, upbeat song perfect for sending off graduates.
Released by Mao Abe in 2014, it was used as the opening theme for the anime Baby Steps.
Her powerful vocals and lyrics that remind you of the importance of trying your best make it a perfect fit for graduates stepping onto a bright new stage.
The lyrics, which tell you it’s okay to rest sometimes and then move forward as yourself, are recommended for anyone sprinting into a new chapter!
Where the Wind Goes (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)Ado
A dramatic ballad provided by Motohiro Hata as the ending theme for the film ONE PIECE FILM RED.
In the movie, it was a key number that conveyed Uta’s inner conflict and pain, as well as her energy to keep moving forward.
The lyrics about never giving up on your dreams and Ado’s delicate yet powerful vocals are truly moving.
A graduation ceremony is one of the stages for sprinting into the next step.
As you listen to this song, remember the school days filled with many tears and laughter, and find the courage to open a new door!
Graduation song, friends’ song19
This song captures the complex feelings that mix loneliness and sadness before graduation with hope for the future.
It reflects the realization that the everyday moments—like having meaningless chats with friends—were actually treasures, while also expressing the anxiety of growing up.
Since graduation often means not being able to see friends as easily, it’s an experience everyone goes through, making this a song many can relate to.
road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE
This is a ballad that makes you want to express gratitude to the friends who stood by your side when you’re at a crossroads in life.
Released by EXILE in February 2007 as their 23rd single, the song warmly reflects on the days spent walking together, with themes of graduation and new departures.
It reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and became the 1,000th song in Oricon history to top the chart, marking a milestone.
It was featured in MTI’s “music.jp” commercial and selected by the National Karaoke Business Association as a recommended song for the graduation season, resonating with many listeners.
First included on the album “EXILE EVOLUTION,” it was later featured on releases such as “EXILE BALLAD BEST.” Loved as a staple performed at graduation ceremonies, a choral version was also produced.
When you and your dear friends begin to walk separate paths, it gives you the courage to move forward while holding your memories close.
Even when you’re apart, your hearts remain connected.
It’s a song that makes you feel exactly that.