Memories Come Flooding Back: Tearjerker Graduation Songs. Moving, Tear-Inducing Ballads [2026]

Graduation Elegy3B LAB.☆S

Graduation Elegy / 3B LAB.

“Sotsugyo Aika,” included as the B-side to the debut single “Ichigo Ichie” released in 2003.

Since it’s performed by the rock band 3B LAB.☆, it has a different vibe from the usual wistful graduation songs.

While most graduation songs tend to be ballads, this track is upbeat and catchy, yet it still feels like a proper graduation song, folding in reflections on memories and relatable episodes that anyone can connect with.

It’s a track I recommend to those who want a graduation song that isn’t a ballad.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

GraduationKobukuro

Kobukuro “Graduation”

With a straightforward, quintessential graduation-song title, “Sotsugyo” is Kobukuro’s 31st single, released in 2020.

Some people may feel that graduating doesn’t quite feel real yet, but when you listen to this song, the reality hits home—you can truly feel it, can’t you? Your school life and memories since enrollment will likely flash before your eyes like a revolving lantern.

When you realize that the ordinary days were actually irreplaceable, you’ll surely be moved to tears—maybe even cry your eyes out.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

Tomoë GakuenFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Tomoe Gakuen (Full ver.)

This song, with its captivating title “Tomoegakuen,” takes its name from a real school that once existed in Tokyo, though it has since been closed.

It was the alma mater of Tetsuko Kuroyanagi, and the song was created as the theme for Totto-chan, the drama depicting half of Kuroyanagi’s life.

True to Masaharu Fukuyama’s style, it’s a piece that draws in listeners of any generation, making it a graduation song that resonates not only with current graduates but also with those who finished school long ago.

It’s a track we hope both children about to graduate and their parents will listen to together.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

Sakura AleAdachi Kana

Kana Adachi “Sakura Yell”

Even if graduating doesn’t quite feel real yet, the feeling that “it’s hard to be apart from my friends” grows stronger day by day as the ceremony approaches, doesn’t it? Kana Adachi’s song Sakura Yell is a graduation song about the memories with those beloved friends and a message to them.

When you listen to this song, all your memories with your friends will surely come rushing back, and even the moments you thought were nothing special will become precious.

It’s a graduation song you’ll want to share with your dear friends.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

We againSG

Us, Again – SG (Official Lyric Video)

Sogyoung, a singer who’s gained popularity mainly on social media like YouTube and TikTok.

Known for his strong vocals and creative concepts, his go-to graduation song is “Bokura Mata” (“We, Again”).

On TikTok, it’s been used in countless videos themed around school life.

His gentle, conversational singing over a light, R&B-style beat leaves a lasting impression.

The lyrics, which bring to mind days spent with a beloved partner or friends at school, offer encouragement for tomorrow.

Even when you part ways with someone important, this song reminds you that the relationship doesn’t have to end.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

sentimentalculenasm

culenasm “Sentimental” (Official Music Video)

culenasm’s latest work beautifully portrays memories and regrets from the past.

Focusing on relationships with friends and lovers, it looks back on how a single casual remark can change everything.

Its distinctive sound—memories expressed through guitar tones and regrets through roaring noise—leaves a strong impression.

Released in February 2025, the song has garnered a huge response at live shows.

The music video, shot by the members themselves on an iPhone, is also available, allowing listeners to immerse themselves even more deeply in the song’s world.

It’s a highly recommended track for the graduation season, especially for those reflecting on past relationships or seeking music that truly resonates.

Last SongOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Last Song [Studio Live Session]

A heartwarming song by Hige Dandism that gently accompanies the feelings of graduation season.

Included on the album “Traveler,” it was released in October 2019 and was featured as an insert song in the drama “Ato 3-kai, Kimi ni Aeru” (We’ll Meet Three More Times).

It conveys the desire to cherish memories within our limited time.

Satoshi Fujihara’s warm vocals and the gentle sound of the piano offer a sense of unhurried, flowing time.

It’s perfect as graduation ceremony BGM, where the sorrow of parting mingles with the excitement of a new beginning.

Recommended for those who want to spend a moving, memorable moment before saying goodbye to someone important.