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

Kitearashi

ARASHI – Kite [Official Music Video]

This is the song beloved as Arashi’s graduation anthem! Conceived as NHK’s theme song for 2020 and crafted by the popular artist Kenshi Yonezu, it weaves together lyrics about childhood memories, words from family, bonds with friends, and more—moving listeners deeply.

Released in July 2020, it became Arashi’s first single to sell over a million copies.

Gently comforting the tears shed on graduation day, this track is perfect for anyone embarking on a new chapter in life.

oneselfTani Yuuki

My True Self – Tani Yuuki [MV]

Tani Yuuki’s “Jibun Jishin,” a song that accompanies the important milestone of graduation, has moved many people with its stirring melody and lyrics.

The piano lines and powerful vocals portray the reality of youth pressing forward despite various struggles.

Perfect for the graduation season that symbolizes endings and beginnings, the lyrics embrace the anxieties of a new life and are sure to give courage to everyone standing at the start of a new chapter.

The happiest treasuresutopuri

[MV] The Most Wonderful Treasure / Strawberry Prince

Stopuri is a six-member entertainment group known for each member’s distinctive charm and their wide-ranging activities.

Their 27th single, “Saikou no Takaramono” (“The Most Wonderful Treasure”), pairs cute vocals with a refreshing ensemble that feels delightful.

Its positive lyrics, which both reminisce about dazzling youthful days and celebrate new beginnings, are sure to brighten the sentimental mood of graduation ceremonies.

It’s a heartwarming graduation song we hope you’ll listen to while thinking of your beloved friends.

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Hoshino Takashi

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GraduationKobukuro

Kobukuro “Graduation”

The lyrics that evoke the scenery of the day of departure and the gentle twin vocals will surely warm the hearts of those graduating.

“Sotsugyo,” released by Kobukuro in 2020, is a song that makes you want to cherish your school memories forever.

The moving melody line, combined with the two singers’ beautiful and delicate voices, offers congratulations to those setting off on a new path.

Graduation doesn’t mean a final farewell; until the day you meet again, listening to this song may help you treasure and safely keep your memories of school.

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mutō

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Sakura (2019)Moriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama – “Sakura (2019)” Music Video

Released in 2003, Naotaro Moriyama’s “Sakura” has become a staple song for the cherry blossom season.

2019年にはドラマ『同期のサクラ』の主題歌として起用され、「Sakura (2019)」バージョンとして再リリースされました。卒業の別れを感動的に描いた歌詞で、胸に深く響く卒業ソングです。

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utatane

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Sakura MelodyMakihara Noriyuki

Noriyuki Makihara – Sakura Melody [Music Video]

This song, which begins with a beautiful piano accompaniment, is a graduation song crafted by Noriyuki Makihara.

Many graduates will likely find their hearts moved by the lyrics, which portray the feelings of two people walking separate paths.

In the latter part of the track, there is a scene that recalls days spent as cherry blossoms fluttered, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

The piece is included on the album “Bespoke,” released in March 2022.

If you’re looking for a song that resonates not only with graduates but also with anyone embarking on a new chapter in life, this is the one.

On the Day of Departure

[Chorus Song] On the Day of Departure / With Lyrics / Singing Practice / Graduation Song #chorus #classchorus #graduationsong #choruscontest

Many of you may have shed tears singing this song at your graduation ceremony.

“Tabidachi no Hi ni” is a choral piece that’s a staple at graduations.

Even if you promise yourself you won’t cry, the moment the intro starts, the tears somehow begin to flow.

Its relaxed tempo and straightforward lyrics are hallmarks of a choral song.

Singing it together at graduation unites everyone’s hearts and fosters a sense of bond.

It may be a bit cliched, but it’s a highly recommended graduation song that’s sure to move you!

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miyabi

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