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

Like a flower that blooms in the fieldGACKT

Like a flower that blooms in the field

It’s a moving number that began from a promise made on a radio program, and is also known for GACKT’s surprise appearance at the Hyogo Prefectural Maiko High School graduation ceremony, where he performed it.

Its simple, acoustic guitar–based arrangement allows the vocals—packed with a fierce determination to chase one’s dreams—to strike straight to the heart.

Released as a single in February 2007 and also aired on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” it’s likely many people remember it.

This song is perfect for graduates stepping into the future while carrying the sadness of parting.

When you feel like you’re about to falter, or when you want to believe in yourself and move forward, listening to it will gently nudge you from behind and surely give you a warm sense of courage.

MiracleGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Kiseki

When it comes to youth anthems, you just can’t leave this one out! Released in May 2008 as the theme song for the drama “ROOKIES,” GReeeeN’s signature track “Kiseki” is a pure love song that celebrates the joy of meeting the person you love and the resolve to walk into the future together.

True to its title, the lyrics call the couple’s meeting a “miracle” (kiseki) and describe the path they’ve walked as a “trace” or “trajectory” (also kiseki)—a wordplay that stirs the heart every time you listen.

In 2009, it was also chosen as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, making it beloved across generations.

It’s a moving song you’ll want to play at graduations, thank-you parties, and those final moments with dear friends or a loved one, to express your gratitude.

Goodbye Memoriessupercell

sayonara memories – supercell

It’s a song that captures the bittersweet feeling of graduating while holding close the memories of familiar routes home and casual conversations.

Released in February 2010, it was written and composed by ryo, with vocals by nagi.

The driving sound woven from piano and strings beautifully conveys the unique restlessness of youth.

It’s also included on the classic album “Today Is A Beautiful Day,” and has long been loved as a spring staple.

In the climax of the lyrics, the protagonist musters their courage—a moment that’s sure to set your heart racing just by listening! If you have words you want to share with someone, this song will surely give you the courage to speak them.

Song of ThanksV6

V6 / Thank You Song (YouTube Ver.)

Putting gratitude into words can feel embarrassing, and this heartwarming mid-tempo number from V6 speaks for those feelings.

With lyrics that deliver thanks through everyday scenes, it’s sure to gently loosen the listener’s heart.

The structure—each member handing off solo parts so their distinct vocal colors layer the emotion—is especially memorable.

Released in March 2004, the song became familiar as the theme for TBS’s “Gakkō e Ikō!” and as the commercial song for Kawaijuku’s University Prep Course.

It resonated with the youthful spirit of the show and likely became an unforgettable memory for students of the time.

It’s a perfect track for moments of transition—like graduation or entrance exams—when you want to express gratitude to those who’ve supported you.

A moving song that helps you be honest with your feelings as you face farewells with someone important.

treasurewacci

wacci “Treasure” (Lyric Video)

It’s a cheering song that gently affirms the anxiety and impatience you feel while pursuing your dreams, yet also the strong will not to give up.

Included on the album “Kanjō Hyakkei,” released in August 2017, this track features a warm band sound whose words and melody reach straight to the heart.

It became a hot topic when Miho Takagi of speed skating listened to it as her pump-up song during the Pyeongchang Olympics in February 2018, and it spread as a song that gives many people a push forward.

True to wacci’s style, its everyday, empathetic message makes it perfect to give to a friend setting out on a new path at graduation or to teammates who have overcome frustration in their club activities.

It’s a song that helps you reaffirm the “precious things” that will support you in the life ahead.

KanadeSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

This is one of Sukima Switch’s signature ballads, the kind you want to listen to when the season of farewells arrives.

Released as a single in March 2004, it’s also well known as an insert song for the film “Rough” and as the ending theme on the final day of the 2006 “Nettō Kōshien.” The lyrics, set to a wistful melody, portray parting with someone important while holding on to hope for the future.

Many listeners are surely moved by its message of a strong bond that keeps people connected through song even when they’re apart.

Featured on the album “Natsugumo Noise,” it has remained beloved and has been covered by many artists.

It’s a song perfect for spring, when life changes—whether you’re taking a new step forward or looking back nostalgically on your youth.

Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa

Lord of Major / Precious Things

This is a track that could be called the very origin of Road of Major, a rock band formed from a TV show concept! Released in September 2002 as their indie debut single, it set a remarkable record by entering the Oricon Top 10 for 19 consecutive weeks despite having no tie-in.

It has continued to be loved over the years, later even being used in a car commercial in Taiwan.

With its exhilarating, fast-paced sound and lyrics that depict an unshakable bond with irreplaceable friends, it’s a song that makes your heart burn every time you hear it.

Also included on the classic album “ROAD OF MAJOR,” this track is perfect for throwing your arms around your friends at karaoke and singing together as you each set off on different paths after graduation.

Its melody, where overflowing passion coexists with a touch of bittersweetness, vividly brings back the shining memories of youth.