[Moving] Heartfelt Japanese Songs Recommended for Graduation Season [2026]
Have you ever had tears well up when a song suddenly started playing on your way home from graduation after parting with your friends? The graduation season that arrives with the coming of spring is a special time when joy and bittersweet feelings mingle.
The songs that gently embrace those emotions are graduation songs that stay close to the heart.
This time, we’ll introduce a wide range of Japanese tracks—from timeless classics that have been loved for years to the latest hits.
They’re perfect for reminiscing about memories with friends or listening as you set your resolve for a new beginning.
You’re sure to find a song that will accompany your most precious moments.
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[Moving] Heart-Touching Japanese Songs Recommended for Graduation Season [2026] (81–90)
Helloyama × bocchiboromaru
Created through the collaboration of yama and Bocchi Boromaru, this song is a heartwarming piece perfect for graduation ceremonies.
Centered on themes of hope for the future and courage, it sings of the strength to move forward.
Released in December 2023, it was also used as the opening theme for the anime Pokémon.
With lyrics about breaking through the clouds and heading beyond the stars, it gently encourages graduates as they set off on new paths.
It’s recommended not only for those graduating, but also for anyone facing a turning point in life.
The soul-stirring vocals and hope-filled melody are sure to give you courage!
Nostalgic FutureKamishiraishi Mone
Mone Kamishiraishi is a singer known for her beautifully clear voice.
Her acting ability and expressive power as an actor also shine in the world of music! Her song “Natsukashii Mirai,” released in January 2022, was chosen as the theme song for the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.
At first glance, the title seems puzzling, but it’s said the lyrics express the idea that if you fulfill the future you’ve always envisioned, that future will feel nostalgic.
If everyone were to sing this song together at a graduation ceremony—a turning point before spreading their wings toward the future—it would surely move anyone to tears.
Sky-blue DaysSHISHAMO
For graduation season, I recommend SHISHAMO’s “Mizuiro no Hibi.” This song captures the bittersweet feeling of the dwindling days leading up to graduation, and the lyrics make the theme easy to grasp.
It features a fresh, upbeat sound with the simple vibe of a three-piece band.
Experience the sweet-and-sour essence of youth through this track.
Farewell, YouthChatto Monchī
Chatmonchy’s graduation song “Saraba Seishun.” While Chatmonchy is often associated with bright, poppy tunes, their ballads are actually fantastic too.
The lyrics evoke the sweet-and-sour memories of school days, and listening to this song during graduation season is sure to bring tears to your eyes.
Bring it on, spring.non
An anthem cheering on those taking new steps with the arrival of spring, it carries a powerful, uplifting message.
The track was released digitally in January 2025, with the music video premiering at the same time.
The MV centers on a student band’s graduation performance, beautifully capturing the sparkle of youth.
It’s a particularly recommended song for anyone about to embark on a new chapter this spring.
Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS
FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, who unfortunately disbanded in 2013.
Like their other songs, this track is a perfect choice for a moving graduation, with the kind of upbeat, straightforward lyrics that really hit home—something FANMON is known for.
It’s also well-known for featuring Sanma Akashiya in the music video.
It’s a song you’ll want to dedicate to a dear friend.
[Moving] Recommended Heart-Touching Japanese Songs for Graduation Season [2026] (91–100)
Best FriendNishino Kana
One of Kana Nishino’s signature songs, “Best Friend.” It’s a track she created for a friend, and the lyrics overflow with her feelings for that friend.
Nishino’s lyrics often use simple, accessible expressions, making them easy to relate to and especially popular among younger generations.
Why not use this song to convey the things you’re usually too shy to say to your friends?