Memories Come Flooding Back: Tearjerker Graduation Songs. Moving, Tear-Inducing Ballads [2026]
As graduation approaches, there are moments when your chest suddenly tightens, aren’t there? The days spent in the classroom, the friends you laughed with, and the mix of anxiety and hope as you step onto a new path.
Perhaps it’s the power of tear-jerking graduation songs that gently embraces those complicated feelings.
In this article, we’ve gathered moving songs perfect for graduation season—from the latest hits of the Reiwa era to timeless classics passed down across generations.
Each song is one that will bring back memories the moment you listen and naturally bring tears to your eyes.
As you face farewells with those dear to you, you’re sure to find a song that stays close to your heart.
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[Memories Come Flooding Back] Tear-Jerking Graduation Songs. Moving Tearful Ballads [2026] (51–60)
Not hereNogizaka 46
Nogizaka46 is an idol group that debuted with the sensational catchphrase “the official rivals of AKB48 at the height of their popularity.” Their 31st single, “Koko ni wa Nai Mono,” also drew attention for having Asuka Saito—who graduated from the group at the end of 2022—serve as center.
Its lyrics, which evoke a departure toward a new future, stir the heart alongside a translucent arrangement of piano and strings.
It’s a pop tune perfectly suited to graduation season, carrying a powerful message about moving forward on your own feet even amid loneliness.
The season of farewellSHISHAMO
Sayonara no Kisetsu by SHISHAMO is a graduation song included on the album SHISHAMO 2.
It’s said to be based on an experience by lyricist Asako Miyazaki: when the senior she liked was graduating, someone else had already asked for his second button, so she received his third button instead.
If you’ve been in a similar situation, it might really tug at your heartstrings.
Best FriendKiroro
Kiroro’s 10th single “Best Friend,” released in 2002.
Known across generations as the theme song for NHK’s morning drama series “Churasan,” it has also become a staple as a song to give to friends, and as a graduation song.
When it comes to graduation, parting with friends is the hardest, isn’t it? You may still see each other in the future, but you won’t be together every day anymore—just thinking about that is enough to make you cry, and this song is the final push that brings on the tears.
It’s the perfect song to dedicate to friends who are going their separate ways.
road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE
It’s a signature EXILE ballad and a classic graduation song that has been loved for years.
Released in 2007.
Its warm melody and heartfelt lyrics really strike a chord.
As you look back on the days you’ve spent and all the memories, you feel “I’m glad it all happened,” and find the strength to keep going.
It has that kind of heartwarming push.
The vocals by ATSUSHI and TAKAHIRO also heighten the emotion.
I imagine some people couldn’t hold back their tears at graduation ceremonies.
It’s an unforgettable masterpiece that becomes a source of support for the heart.
[Memories Come Flooding Back] Tear-Jerking Graduation Songs. Moving Tearjerkers [2026] (61–70)
Youth PhotographLittle Glee Monster
Little Glee Monster shakes the heart with their overwhelming vocals and harmonies.
This is a single released in 2015, and the light piano in the intro wraps you in a pleasant, bright mood.
Days of teasing and laughing together and so many memories come rushing back, and you suddenly find yourself wishing things could just stay this way.
The up-tempo beat somehow makes it even more tear-jerking.
If it played during a graduation scene, I’d be in tears.
Even the phrase “Seishun Photograph” has such a lovely ring to it.
I’m sure our hearts will stay connected, even when we’re apart! In the end, let’s all smile and head toward a new future!
A graduation song, a song of friends.19
This “Graduation Song, Friends’ Song” is a track whose lyrics strongly evoke the quintessential graduation song.
The melody is catchy pop, yet it’s arranged with a rather grand feel.
The lyrics express gratitude before parting ways.
It’s a wonderful song you’d want to dedicate to your cherished friends.
Graduation PhotoMatsutōya Yumi
This song is from the time when Yumi Matsutoya was active under the name Yumi Arai.
Released in 1975, it became a major hit and has continued to be listened to as a classic graduation song ever since.
It’s also a number that has been covered by many famous artists.
It stands as a monumental graduation song that floods you with the bittersweetness of youth, the fleeting nature of graduation, and the poignancy of days gone by.
The perspective of looking back after graduation is especially moving—simple, yet a graduation song that can bring anyone to tears.