[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] Cheer songs to listen to at graduation. J-POP graduation songs and anthems (51–60)
Kitearashi
Composed, written, and arranged by Kenshi Yonezu, “Kite” became Arashi’s final release before their hiatus.
Its lyrics, which overlay the dreams of a shining future from childhood with one’s present place, resonate perfectly with graduates whose feelings mix nostalgia, hope for what’s ahead, and a touch of anxiety.
Within it is also the wish for dreams to come true, making it a recommended cheer song for graduates.
Let’s send them off with this gentle work, whose five-part harmonies continue to echo in the heart.
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!
Teenager ForeverKing Gnu
King Gnu’s “Teenager Forever” is the perfect song for a season of new beginnings.
It doesn’t just lament the end of one’s teenage years; it’s filled with encouragement for the anxieties and dreams everyone carries.
In particular, when you feel uncertain or lost about your path, listening to it can give you courage.
Their music is characterized by outstanding musicianship and is supported by a wide range of listeners.
As you embark on a new chapter in life, why not give this song a listen? It’s sure to give you the strength to move forward.
Packed with King Gnu’s positive message, this song will shine a bright light on the future ahead.
Mela!Ryokushokushakai
Mela! is a perfect anthem to cheer you on as you step lightly into a new path, and it’s included on Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s second album, SINGALONG.
It also gained wide popularity after being featured in the commercial for Dariya’s Parti Coloring Milk.
With Haruko Nagaya’s soaring vocals, this song blows away the waves of anxiety that sometimes roll in and lifts your spirits.
Its up-tempo melody and forward-looking lyrics will give you courage as you stand at the milestone of graduation.
[2026] Cheer songs to listen to at graduation. J-pop graduation songs and anthems (61–70)
YELLikimonogakari
YELL by Ikimonogakari is known as a classic graduation song.
The piano in the intro alone can bring tears to your eyes.
While it conveys the sadness of parting, if you savor each lyric, you’ll see it’s actually a perfect cheer song for graduates.
It’s a deeply moving piece filled with the wish that you’ll turn your goodbyes into strength and walk boldly through the life ahead.
The wistful melody also resonates deeply in the heart.
If you ever feel suddenly anxious after graduating, remember this song.
To the futureKiroro
This song is a staple among graduation tunes.
It’s a track by Kiroro, a female duo from Okinawa, released as their second single in June 1998.
Originally, the songwriter composed it in middle school to express gratitude to her mother, but its warm lyrics also resonate with the feelings we have for those who supported us at graduation.
Its simple, heartfelt melody has been featured as an insert song in the anime “Tsuki ga Kirei” and in commercials.
Singing of hope for the new paths ahead, this moving piece gives courage in times of parting and new beginnings.
It’s sure to be a song that gently nudges someone forward.
Thank you!!HOME MADE kazoku
HOME MADE Kazoku’s “Thank You!!” is a single released in January 2005 and one of the group’s signature songs.
As the title suggests, it’s a song that expresses gratitude to the important people who always support you.
With its hip-hop vibe and upbeat, fun-to-sing rhythm, it might be a good choice to sing to someone you feel too shy to thank directly.