[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] (151–160)
Spring ~spring~Hysteric Blue
This song is cherished as a graduation anthem that resonates with younger generations.
Set to Hysteric Blue’s characteristically pop-rock sound, it sings of the farewells felt with the arrival of spring and the joy of new beginnings.
Released in January 1999, the track quickly drew attention when it was selected as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “Mokugeki! Dokyun.” The lyrics are filled with natural imagery symbolizing the end of winter and the start of spring, treasured memories, and hope for the future.
It’s a perfect song not only for students nearing graduation, but also for anyone stepping into a new environment.
Listening to this piece will surely give you the courage to ride the spring breeze and take a new step forward.
Graduation song, friends’ song19
“Sotsugyō no Uta” (Graduation Song) is a track by the folk duo 19, released on March 20, 1999.
It’s also an encouragement song that cheers on friends, with themes of graduation and parting.
Taking the first step after graduating brings excitement, but also anxiety and the need for courage.
This song gives courage and a gentle push to those in that situation.
If you listen to it at a graduation ceremony, many people will likely feel encouraged.
Tomoë GakuenFukuyama Masaharu
Masaharu Fukuyama’s song “Tomoe Gakuen,” released on December 1, 2017, is so moving that it can bring you to tears just by listening.
The lyrics look back on school life, and as you listen, it feels as if nostalgic scenes come vividly back to life before your eyes.
The song also expresses gratitude for everything up to now, making it a perfect track for the graduation season.
Song of DepartureAAA
How about sinking into a chic, bittersweet song and letting the mood wash over you? Tabi Dachi no Uta by the co-ed performance group AAA was released in 2009 as their 20th single.
Its gentle, R&B-tinged sound is absolutely lovely.
The mature melody pairs perfectly with the vocals, making it truly captivating.
With lyrics like “No matter how many years pass, I’ll never forget you,” many listeners are sure to picture a friend’s face.
It’s highly recommended as a song to dedicate to a best friend.
Best FriendKiroro
One of the classic songs for graduation ceremonies, Kiroro’s “Best Friend.” It was also used as the theme song for the TV drama series Churasan and became a big hit.
Vocalist Tamashiro wrote the song for fellow member Kinjo, expressing her daily gratitude.
It’s often sung at graduation ceremonies and has long been a beloved masterpiece that has given many people both moving moments and cherished memories.
Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster
Little Glee Monster is a female vocal group known for harmonies that blend power and delicacy.
Their song “Itsuka Kono Namida ga” was chosen as the support song for the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.
The lyrics speak to feelings you can surely share with friends who spent school life and club activities together, so it’s also recommended as a graduation song! It’s perfect for celebrating graduation, and a choral performance would likely be a hit.
Even after graduating, it’s wonderful to listen to it as a fight song that lifts you up when times are tough.
[Moving] Heartwarming Japanese Songs Recommended for Graduation Season [2026] (161–170)
C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK
This song is beloved as ONE OK ROCK’s graduation anthem! It’s a track built on their signature rock sound.
The lyrics evoke the bonds with friends who shared your school days and dreams together, and just listening to it really tugs at the heartstrings.