[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.
- [Great Lyrics!!] Recommended Tear-Jerking Graduation Songs with Heartfelt, Moving Words [2026]
- Tear-jerking classic graduation songs! Recommended tracks for graduation movie BGM
- [Latest] Reiwa-Era Graduation Songs | Check Out the Most Popular Tracks!
- [Gratitude, Encouragement, Memories] Tear-Jerking Graduation Songs You Can’t Listen to Without Crying [2026]
- [2026] Uplifting Songs for Graduation: J-POP Graduation Songs and Anthems
- [Recommended for High School Students] New Graduation Songs & Classic Tearjerkers Collection
- [For junior high students] Choral songs you’ll want to sing at your middle school graduation ceremony. Songs that touch the heart.
- [For Graduates] Graduation Songs and Cheer Anthems to Convey Gratitude and Support
- Choral Songs Sung at Elementary School Graduation Ceremonies: A Collection of Moving Song Ideas
- [2026] A Collection of Youthful Songs to Play at Graduation Ceremonies [J-POP]
- A farewell song for a dear friend—an uplifting graduation song that conveys heartfelt gratitude.
- From classic choral pieces to popular J-pop! Moving songs you’ll want to sing at graduation ceremonies
- [Farewell] A selection of moving, tear-jerking Japanese songs recommended for graduation ceremonies
[Moving] Recommended Japanese songs that touch the heart for graduation season [2026] (141–150)
Azure Swimnishina
Sung by Nishina, this song is a ballad marked by gentle piano and strings that resonates deeply with those facing graduation.
The lyrics offer warm encouragement: even as friends part ways, each will give their all on a new path.
Included on the album “1999,” the track was created based on Nishina’s own experiences.
Released in July 2022, the album is packed with her diverse expressions.
It’s a perfect song to listen to on graduation day while reflecting on past memories—sure to give you the courage to take a step into a new life.
Letter ~Dear fifteen-year-old you~Anjura Aki
This song is often cited as a moving anthem for many different moments.
As the subtitle suggests, it’s themed around a letter to one’s 15-year-old self.
Adults often say, “I wish I could tell my younger self,” don’t they? But those times can be really hard.
This gentle track, which stays close to those feelings, is a perfect fit for graduation.
Lingering Snowiruka
No matter how much time passes, it’s a staple graduation song, isn’t it? It was originally a track by the folk band Kaguya-hime, and the version sung by Iruka released in 1975 became a huge hit.
Since then, countless famous musicians have released cover versions—truly a classic among classics.
The lyrics depict a cinematic scene of parting with someone important, and they really hit you in the heart.
It’s a song I especially want the younger generation who are about to graduate to hear.
YellKobukuro
A song whose gentle yet valiant message resonates in the heart! Like flowers blooming with the arrival of spring, it’s beloved as a cheer song for those taking a new step forward.
This track is actually Kobukuro’s major-label debut single, released in March 2001.
Used as a TV show theme and in commercials, it’s a song that encourages not only graduates but everyone diving into a new environment.
It’s perfect for playing in the car on a family outing during spring break, or as background music at a graduation celebration!
cherry blossomKobukuro
While facing your own weaknesses, still living your life with strength…
This is a message song that teaches us what truly matters in life.
It’s a track by the duo Kobukuro, who have produced numerous hit songs such as “Wadachi” and “Tsubomi.” Released in 2005 as their 12th single, it was featured as the theme song for the drama “Ns’ Aoi,” drawing a lot of attention.
Their choral work is truly beautiful—just hearing it fills you with a deep warmth.
I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu
It’s a tear-jerker, but I think you’ll feel refreshed by the time it’s over.
It’s one of the signature songs by Spitz, the rock band that has produced numerous classics like “Cherry,” “Spring Song,” and “Yasashii Ano Ko.” Released in 1994 as their eighth single, it was used as the theme song for the drama Shiroi Sen Nagashi (White Line).
The unpretentious band sound is so comfortable, and the lyrics, which describe the happiness of having met someone precious, are truly wonderful.
To you, my best friend in the worldHakoniiwa Ririi
A song themed around the delicate feelings between friendship and romance, perfect for graduation and farewell season.
The harmony woven by Hanon and Kotoha’s contrasting voices is captivating, and the mid-tempo, fast-paced rock sound leaves a strong impression.
It’s included on the album “Lily’s Plage,” released in September 2022.
Written and composed by Gom (MARUMOCHI) and produced by HoneyWorks, this track sings about feelings that shift from friends to lovers.
It’s recommended for students approaching graduation and for anyone who wants to express their feelings to someone special.