[Moving] Heartfelt Japanese Songs Recommended for Graduation Season [2026]

SAKURAikimonogakari

SAKURA – Ikimonogakari (Full)

A heartwarming song that gently portrays the season when cherry blossoms dance in the air.

Its refreshing, springlike melody is beautifully layered with Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, transparent vocals from Ikimonogakari, resonating deeply with the listener.

While carefully depicting the scenes of a season filled with meetings and farewells, it serves as an encouraging anthem that gives you the courage to take the next step.

Released in March 2006 as their major-label debut, it was also used in an NTT East Japan commercial.

It has often been broadcast to coincide with the school graduation season and continues to be cherished as a song of memories.

It’s recommended for those who, in the spring season of partings, want to face forward and start walking, or are about to take a new step.

Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46

The Only One Who Knows Is the Graduation Photo by Hinatazaka46

Hinatazaka46’s new song is a poignant work that portrays the bittersweet feelings of love with graduation as its theme.

The lyrics capture memories that resurface in the cherry blossom season and the regret of not being able to confess, resonating deeply with listeners.

It’s the group’s 13th single, released on January 29, 2025, with Nao Kosaka as the center.

The music video, themed “A Parade that Heralds Spring,” has also been released—be sure to check it out.

It’s a perfect track for the graduation season, recommended not only for students but also for anyone who wants to look back on their youth with a touch of nostalgia.

Maximum reachSEKAI NO OWARI

SEKAI NO OWARI “Highest Altitude” ONE PIECE Lyric MV

Its powerful message of turning weakness into strength resonates deeply.

It’s a song that gives listeners a push forward as they head into the new departure of graduation.

Released in September 2023, this track was also selected as the opening theme for a hugely popular anime.

It’s included on the album “Nautilus” and is a piece that encapsulates the essence of SEKAI NO OWARI’s musicality.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants the courage to overcome difficulties and move toward their dreams.

If you listen to it at a graduation ceremony, you might just find yourself in tears.

Even those who feel anxious about a new environment are sure to draw strength from this song!

HarukaYOASOBI

YOASOBI 'Haruka' Official Music Video

YOASOBI’s “Haruka” is perfect for the season of farewells and new beginnings.

Its warm, tender sound and heartfelt vocals are truly moving.

The song is based on “Tsuki Ōji” (Moon Prince), an original short story written by broadcast writer Osamu Suzuki.

Listening to it brings back memories of school days spent with dear friends, teachers, and lovers.

It’s ideal as background music for graduation ceremonies or for everyone to sing together.

If you’d rather celebrate graduation brightly with an up-tempo track than be swept away by a tear-jerking ballad, this one’s highly recommended.

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Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai

Dai Hirai / The Way Home in March (Lyric Video)

A perfect song for graduation season has arrived from Dai Hirai.

With a simple arrangement of just piano and strings, it gently sings of youthful memories and the feelings that come with setting out on a new journey.

This piece has resonated with many as a song that empathizes with those standing at life’s milestones, such as graduation or the start of a new chapter.

Hirai’s soft vocals and melody are sure to leave a deep impression on listeners.

Released as a digital single in February 2022, it was later included in his first album in three years, HOPE / WISH, in May of the same year.

It’s a track you’ll want to hear during graduation ceremonies and the season of farewells—be sure to give it a listen.

Gazing up, the sky is blueHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata / Aogeba Aozora Music Video

Motohiro Hata’s tear-jerking graduation song “Aogeba Aozora.” His gentle, warm voice is always the best no matter when you listen.

And the lyrics of this song are exceptionally good, filled with depth and bittersweet emotion.

Listening to it makes you reflect on the many meanings of the word “goodbye.”

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Kadode no Ippo (feat. CHICO CARLITO)ASOBOiSM

Kadode no Ippo (feat. CHICO CARLITO)

An uplifting anthem that supports graduates setting out from familiar surroundings toward their dreams.

It’s a track woven from ASOBOiSM’s distinctive sound and CHICO CARLITO’s unique rap.

The lyrics, which empathize with the mingled feelings of hope and anxiety for the future, really hit home just by listening.

Released in March 2024, this new song was self-produced by ASOBOiSM.

It’s a must-listen not only for those graduating, but for anyone taking a new step forward.