From classic choral pieces to popular J-pop! Moving songs you’ll want to sing at graduation ceremonies

Hymn to the EarthSakkyoku: Satō Makoto / Sakushi: Ōki Atsuo

Hymn to the Earth (with lyrics)

It’s a classic choral piece that’s not only sung as a graduation song, but also often performed in chorus competitions and featured in music classes! The word “Sanshō” in the title means “to praise,” and the song expresses gratitude to the earth that has nurtured life.

With its powerful, cool sound, it’s very popular and perfectly suits the solemn atmosphere of a graduation ceremony.

How about singing it with feelings of thanks to your parents who raised you, the teachers who taught you so much, and the friends with whom you spent so much time?

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Hane Keisuke

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Graduation PhotoArai Yumi

“Graduation Photo” 2017.2.19 Japan’s 100 Selected Songs

Released in 1975, this song has been loved across generations as a timeless graduation anthem.

It has been covered by numerous artists, making it fun to compare different versions.

It was also selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Songs.

In the video version, the arrangement incorporates Auld Lang Syne during the interlude and ending, enhancing the graduation atmosphere.

With this classic song, I’m sure it will move parents and teachers as well.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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spring skySuzuki Suzuki

【Graduation】Spring Sky – Suzuki Suzuki【Official Music Video】

The graduation-themed ballad delivered by Suzuki Suzuki brilliantly captures the blend of emotions—joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness—of youth.

With lyrics filled with school chimes, tears, crumpled notebooks, and days spent under the spring sky, it’s sure to move your heart with memories of student life.

Released digitally in February 2022, the song also drew attention for its music video featuring three popular video creators.

It’s a perfect track to play on graduation day, resonating with those who feel the loneliness of leaving their hometowns to start new lives.

Sing it with your friends, and it will surely become an unforgettable memory.

ultramarineSakushi: Fukushima-ken Minamisoma Shiritsu Odaka Chūgakkō Heisei 24-nendo Sotsugyōsei / Sakkyoku: Oda Miki

[Choral Song] Ultramarine / With Lyrics [45/200]

Here is a moving song perfect for graduation ceremonies.

It is a choral piece filled with the feelings of students who lived through the Great East Japan Earthquake and the nuclear accident.

The lyrics were written by the 2012–2013 graduating class of Odaka High School in Minamisoma, Fukushima Prefecture, and the music was composed by Miki Oda.

Completed in February 2013, it premiered that March at a concert supporting recovery from the earthquake.

Since then, it has spread nationwide and was featured on the TV program “24-Hour Television” in August 2014.

The song carries thoughts for friends far away, memories of days spent together, and hopes for the future.

Its soul-stirring piano melody and lyrics that inspire the courage to face forward are sure to encourage graduates as they take their next steps.

stepsGReeeeN

Don’t forget 3.11 (2015.05) Ayumi / GReeeeN (cover)

Graduation is a day to embark on a new journey, but many students may still feel anxious about the future.

This is a cheer song that gives you the courage to keep moving forward without stopping.

With a distinctive style and powerful message, the song focuses on life’s journey and personal growth, leaving a deep impression on listeners.

First, as symbolized by the word “ayumi” (to walk, to step forward), the lyrics portray the importance of advancing one step at a time.

They emphasize having the courage to move ahead while overcoming hardships and setbacks, offering hope to those who listen.

Thank you. Goodbye.Nakai Kiichi, Yoshida Naoko

Choral Piece 'Thank You, Goodbye'

This song was first broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1985.

In the first verse it sings about “friends,” in the second about the “classroom,” and in the third about “teachers,” expressing memories and gratitude.

The lyrics, in which students about to graduate bid farewell and give thanks to the friends, teachers, and classroom that supported them, are moving to the point of tears.

It’s a slightly bittersweet graduation song.

Close your eyesArai Yumi

Goto Islands Naru High School Favorite Song Written and Composed by Yumi Arai “Close Your Eyes”

This song was born from a letter sent in by a female high school student in 1974 to the All Night Nippon segment “We’ll Make Your Own Image Song,” asking them to compose a school anthem.

Although it wasn’t adopted as an official school song, it came to be treated as a beloved song instead, and in that region it is played not only at graduation ceremonies but also when ships depart carrying island residents away from the island.