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

Tomorrow, when spring comesMatsu Takako

Tomorrow, when spring comes

When you feel the spring breeze, don’t you sometimes find yourself remembering a youthful romance? Lyrics that bring back those sweet and bittersweet memories—like watching your crush chase a white ball around the school field—can really make your heart skip a beat.

This was the debut single released by Takako Matsu in March 1997, and it also became well-loved as the CM song for NTT’s “Waku-Waku New Life Campaign.” There’s even a surprising tidbit that its working title during production was “Negitoro Tamago.” This song carries both the ache of going separate ways and a faint hope of reunion.

It’s perfect for those parting ways at graduation or for anyone who wants to tuck away their memories with care.

With the arrival of a new season, it’s a song that will give you the courage to face forward and start walking—so please give it a listen!

My friendZARD

My Friend (What a beautiful memory 2008)

A signature number by ZARD, famously known as the ending theme of the TV anime SLAM DUNK.

The lyrics woven by Izumi Sakai carry both the warmth of watching over “you” who keeps running straight ahead and the poignancy of a relationship that might one day change—each listen is enough to make your heart swell.

Released in January 1996 as their 17th single and opening the album TODAY IS ANOTHER DAY, this song became a million seller and is etched in the hearts of many fans.

It’s a perfect cheer song for those pivotal moments of youth—like retiring from a club activity or at a graduation ceremony.

Why not sing it at karaoke with friends you haven’t seen in a while, reminiscing about those days? Its unfading melody will surely bring those feelings from back then vividly back to life.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video

A singer-songwriter with a voice of “steel and glass” that resonates in the heart, Motohiro Hata delivers a moving ballad.

Its lyrics, which depict the warmth of those who stay by your side and the unchanging bonds that endure even when you’re apart, gently accompany the season of farewells.

Released as a single in August 2014, this song was created as the theme for the film STAND BY ME Doraemon.

Its messages, which overlap with the film’s story, struck a chord with many people, and by 2015 it had become such a massive hit that it dominated the karaoke charts.

No matter if the paths we walk diverge in the future, our hearts will always remain connected—this is a song that inspires that kind of hope.

Sing it arm-in-arm with friends at graduations or farewell parties as they set off on new journeys, and it will surely become a memory that lasts a lifetime!

The Story of the Wind and MeAdo

The Story of the Wind and Me [Ado]

This work was chosen as the theme song for the film “The Silent Service: The Great Battle in the Arctic Ocean,” released in September 2025.

It’s also known for being the first time Hiroji Miyamoto provided a song to a female artist.

Inspired by Ado’s love of taking walks, the lyrics and melody evoke the sparkle of the wind and the city, leaving a strong impression.

The grand sound stirs emotions perfectly suited to the season of farewells and new beginnings.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on the way home from a graduation ceremony or when expressing gratitude to a beloved teacher.

EverlastingSixTONES

SixTONES –「Everlasting」from LIVE DVD/BD「Feel da CITY」(2022.1.6 YOKOHAMA ARENA)

This piece is included on the album CITY, released in January 2022.

It was also used as the corporate CM song for Idemitsu Kosan, so many of you have probably heard it on TV and elsewhere.

It’s a grand ballad befitting life’s milestones such as weddings and graduations, carrying a warm message that evokes eternal bonds and trust.

The rich, layered sound featuring a choir is sure to move listeners to tears.

It’s a number we hope you’ll listen to when you want to express gratitude to someone important.

Time-Limited Unrequited LoveNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'Time-Limited Unrequited Love'

The first original song for Nogizaka46’s 6th generation, included on Type-B of the 38th single “Navel Orange.” The music video, released in March 2025, leaves a striking impression with dance scenes set against Hokkaido’s snowy landscapes and atop a frozen lake.

Set in a school classroom, the song portrays the anxious feelings of unspoken emotions as deadlines like graduation and class changes approach.

Many will relate to the usually reserved protagonist who realizes time is running out and tries to take a step forward.

The fresh vocals and driving melody give a powerful push to anyone hesitating.

It’s recommended not only for women experiencing unrequited love, but also for those who need courage to dive into a new environment.

Thank youikimonogakari

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

Feelings of gratitude that are too embarrassing to express on ordinary days might be easier to convey honestly at graduation.

This song, which portrays the warmth of holding someone’s hand, the happiness of everyday life, and the resolve to walk toward the future, is truly a classic befitting a new beginning.

Ikimono-gakari’s single “Arigatou,” released in May 2010, was widely loved as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyōbō.

Thanks to its universal appeal, it was also selected as the entrance march for the 2011 National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

The words woven by Yoshiki Mizuno and the vocals of Kiyoe Yoshioka gently resonate with listeners’ hearts.

Why not listen to this perfect piece for expressing gratitude to parents and teachers at graduation and find the courage to take your next step?