[2026] Graduate with a Smile! Recommended Uplifting Graduation Songs

SolaninASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION 'Soranin'

Let me introduce a classic by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION that sings of the loss and rebirth of youth.

Released in March 2010 as their 14th single, it was written as the main theme for a film based on Inio Asano’s manga.

The unusual collaboration—having the original author pen the lyrics—also drew attention.

The song’s lyrics convey a determination to move forward while accepting farewell, giving listeners the courage to take a new step without dwelling on sorrow.

At their 10th anniversary concert in September 2013, it was so beloved that it ranked first in a fan vote.

Its emotional melody and powerful band sound strike a chord, offering a feeling of being gently pushed forward every time you listen.

It’s a perfect track for anyone standing at the milestone of graduation, feeling a bit uncertain yet ready to walk ahead with hope.

End and Beginningkariyushi 58

Kariyushi58 'The End Is the Beginning'

Once the graduation ceremony ends, it’s time for everyone to set off on their own paths.

On such a day of new beginnings, let me introduce a song that gently asks you how you want to live.

Released by Kariyushi 58 in February 2010 as the B-side to their single “Ame nochi Hare,” this track was chosen as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “Gyoretsu no Dekiru Horitsu Sodanjo,” reaching many listeners.

In 2017, it was also used as the main theme for the TV Tokyo drama “Sanbiki no Ossan 3.” Blending Okinawan rock with reggae into a comfortable groove, the song warmly sings about the importance of living each day without regrets.

Over its roughly six-minute runtime, the arrangement is striking for the way it gradually builds energy from a quiet intro.

As a cheering anthem for graduates setting off to new places, it offers the courage to live today to the fullest—give it a listen!

MemoriesNiziU

NiziU 「Memories」 Dance Performance Video (One Take ver.)

Let me introduce NiziU’s spring song that makes your school-day memories shine.

Released in February 2024 as the theme song for Universal Studios Japan’s student campaign “Uni-Haru 2024,” the track will also be included on the mini-album AWAKE, scheduled for release in February 2025.

Its lyrics remind you that the ordinary days spent with friends are irreplaceable treasures, and its catchy sound will make you want to move.

Using friendly, conversational language, it captures both the bittersweetness and hope of spring, when meetings and farewells intersect.

It’s perfect if you want to greet graduation with a smile or brighten your final moments with classmates.

Listen and dance together, and you’ll create an unforgettable first page of a new beginning!

First Step of KADODE feat. CHICO CARLITOASOBOiSM

ASOBOiSM / The First Step of KADODE feat. CHICO CARLITO

This work brings to life a collaboration between ASOBOiSM and CHICO CARLITO.

Its lyrics, which cheer on that first step toward a dream, truly resonate.

Packed with the courage and anxiety of leaving a familiar environment and the excitement of a new world, the song perfectly captures the feelings of those graduating.

Released in March 2024, this ambitious track was self-produced by ASOBOiSM.

It’s an ideal song to play at graduation ceremonies or farewell parties, or to listen to before starting a new chapter.

It’s a track that makes you feel like you can face forward and walk on with a smile.

We againSG

Us, Again – SG (Official Lyric Video)

A graduation song filled with memories and warmth that’s drawing attention is the work of SG.

Looking back on the carefree days, its gentle melody wraps around the feelings of parting and what comes after, warming the heart.

The lyrics, full of strength to move forward and hope for reunion, soothe many people as a piece that stands beside them at important milestones in life.

Since November 2024, it has also been featured in Calorie Mate’s exam-season support commercial, adding a new charm through a wind ensemble arrangement.

This piece was produced with the cooperation of the Hanazono Tokuei High School Wind Ensemble, and the music created together with the students delivers a moving resonance that crosses generations.

It is a fitting song to gently push you forward at graduations, farewell gatherings, and moments of parting with someone important.

Spring Dayaimyon

Aimyon – Harunohi [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Created as the theme song for an animated film about a honeymoon, this piece delicately portrays a loving married couple.

The story of two people starting a new life together—recognizing each other’s strengths and weaknesses and deepening their love as a family—delivers a wonderful message that encourages a fresh step forward in life.

With this song released in April 2019, Aimyon gently captures the world of the anime film Crayon Shin-chan: Honeymoon Hurricane – The Lost Hiroshi.

Memories beginning on a train platform and the feeling of cherishing small everyday joys resonate warmly alongside the gentle melody.

It’s a song we especially recommend to anyone embarking on a new chapter of life.

Even while holding anxieties about the future, it gives you the courage to move forward one step at a time—why not listen to it together with someone special as an uplifting anthem?

youth↑THE HIGH-LOWS↓

Youth / THE HIGH-LOWS

A track by THE HIGH-LOWS, formed in 1995 by Hiroto Kōmoto and Masatoshi Mashima, formerly of THE BLUE HEARTS.

The lyrics, which recount events from youth, carry a message that says, “A lot happened, but now they’re good memories,” with a laugh-it-off spirit.

Paired with a catchy melody over a classic punk sound, it’s a song that gives you energy at graduation time.

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Hoshino Takashi

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