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

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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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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Sakura, You, and Ituki.

tuki. 'Sakura Kimi Watashi' Official Music Video

This song, which shines with tuki.’s pure sensibility, portrays a bittersweet love that comes to an end with the arrival of spring.

Using the beauty of cherry blossoms as its motif, the lyrics capture the fleeting brilliance and fragility of youth, resonating deeply with teenagers experiencing graduation or parting.

The transparent vocals and gentle acoustic guitar beautifully express the resolve to move forward while cherishing memories.

Released in January 2024, the track is known as an insert song for ABEMA’s dating reality show “Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita.

Graduation Edition 2024,” and its animated music video by Posuka Demizu of “The Promised Neverland” also drew attention.

It’s a perfect song not only for students facing spring farewells, but for anyone who wants to look back on precious moments with someone special.

Dear Sir or Madam, on this day when cherry blossoms fluttermafumafu

[MV] Dear Sir/Madam, On This Day When Cherry Blossoms Flutter Down / Mafumafu [Shonen Janmaga Gakuen]

It’s a bittersweet yet powerful song by Mafumafu that delicately portrays farewells and new encounters arriving with the breath of spring.

Memories and regrets from school days, along with hopes for the future, are spun through a clear, transparent voice, seeping into the heart alongside scenes of falling cherry blossoms.

Included on the album “Kagurairo Artifact,” the track was released in October 2019 and was also used as the theme song for the website “Shonen Janmaga Gakuen.” Its emotional melody and driving rhythm leave a strong impression, gently encouraging those taking a new step in spring.

It resonates even more deeply when listened to at the start of a new chapter or during graduation season.

graduation ceremonySARD UNDERGROUND

SARD UNDERGROUND “Graduation Ceremony” MV

If you’re looking for a song befitting a graduation day that marks a fresh start, we recommend SARD UNDERGROUND’s “Sotsugyoushiki” (“Graduation Ceremony”).

Known for coloring the scene with covers of classic hits by the legendary hitmaker ZARD, the group released this track in February 2023.

As the title suggests, it carries a moving message perfect for the milestone of graduation.

Its lyrical words evoke nostalgia while resonating deeply with today’s youth.

When choosing a song for a graduation ceremony chorus, be sure to add this one to your list—it’s sure to help create a wonderful moment.

graduation songerica

erica “Graduation Song” lyric video (Full ver.)

As if blessing a new beginning, Erica’s “Graduation Song” is perfect for a moving scene at a graduation ceremony.

Celebrating the precious time spent with friends, the song’s gentle guitar tones and rich strings resonate in the heart, warmly coloring the moment of graduation.

It watches over this milestone with warmth and quietly encourages the first steps toward the future.

True to its title, it’s a graduation song that lingers in the heart—highly recommended for anyone reaching a turning point.

DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE "Darling" Official Music Video

A heartwarming anthem that vividly captures the feelings of facing the anxieties and uncertainties of youth.

Set to a refreshing melody, it gently conveys the importance of embracing your true self.

With a sound packed with pop-rock elements and a powerful vocal performance, this is a striking track.

Produced as the theme song for the special NHK General program “18-sai Matsuri” aired in December 2024, it garnered major attention after being performed together with 1,000 members of the 18-year-old generation.

When you feel like you’re losing your way, or when you need the courage to take a new step forward, this song will be a reassuring companion.