[2026] Recommended for graduation movies! Popular up-tempo J-pop songs
Choosing background music for videos shown at graduation ceremonies and thank-you parties can be surprisingly tricky, right?Ballads with a mellow vibe are lovely, but if you go with up-tempo J-pop, the smile-filled memories in your footage will shine even brighter.While looking back on the days spent with your friends, bright songs uniquely capture that exciting feeling of stepping into the future.In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of recommended tracks perfect for graduation videos—not only classic graduation songs, but also the latest tunes that fit perfectly.Why not finish it as a piece with lively BGM that makes viewers’ hearts instantly leap?
[2026] Recommended for Graduation Movies! Popular Upbeat J-POP Songs (1–10)
STARSSnow Man

This song is a rousing anthem brimming with energy and hope that gives courage to those who keep moving toward their dreams.
Released in February 2026 by Snow Man, an idol group that captivates fans with high-level dance performances incorporating acrobatics, the track was chosen as the theme song for TBS Sports 2026, vividly coloring programming related to the Winter Olympics.
Bouncy beats and a bright melody intertwine to deliver a sound that speaks straight to the hearts of people taking on new challenges.
Pushing you powerfully toward the next stage, this piece is recommended as BGM for graduation videos that want to evoke the excitement of a shining future.
Be sure to listen along with footage looking back on the precious days spent with your friends.
Daphne (winter daphne)DISH//

This popular rock number by DISH// drew attention as a co-written piece by vocalist Takumi Kitamura and Hattori from Macaroni Empitsu.
It delicately portrays the themes of deep affection for someone who is always by your side as you move forward each day, and the importance of having a place to return to.
Chosen as the theme song for the drama “The Winner in February: The Classroom of Guaranteed Success,” it was released as a single in November 2021 and is also included on the acclaimed album “TRIANGLE.” The warm, enveloping sound and the buoyant, march-like rhythm feel so pleasant.
Brimming with feelings for cherished friends and family, this song is, in my view, perfect as BGM for a graduation-celebration movie, enhancing touching scenes that invite both smiles and tears.
Sky-blue DaysSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO, a girls’ band that captures the sparkle of youth.
This song they created expresses both the bittersweetness of farewell season and the brightness of moving toward the future with a clear, transparent sound.
It’s wonderful how it doesn’t just linger on memories, but carefully scoops up each person’s emotional tremors.
Released as a single in March 2018, it’s also included on the classic album SHISHAMO 5.
It was used as the Calpis Water “Big Graduation” commercial song, so many of you have probably heard it.
Fresh and up-tempo, this track is perfect for a graduation video that looks back on days spent with friends.
Play it over your montage of memories, and it will make everyone’s smiles shine even brighter.
A bouquet for meAdo

A highly recommended song bursting with positive energy is this track sung by Ado, whose overwhelming vocal prowess captivates countless listeners! Produced by HoneyWorks, it features a light, bouncy beat and an upbeat tempo, carrying a warm message that affirms who you are and gently gives you a push forward.
Released in March 2025, it also drew attention as the theme song for Japan Coca-Cola’s “Georgia” commercial, and is included on the album “Ado’s Best Album,” released in April 2025.
Its forward-looking theme—accepting all failures and regrets and moving toward the future—makes it perfect for graduation scenes as you step into new days.
It’s sure to add a vibrant touch to a graduation video full of smiles.
Youth PhotographLittle Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster is a vocal group known for powerful singing and beautiful harmonies.
Centered on the theme of graduation, this song rides a lively Motown beat to brightly sing about the heartbreak of parting and the bonds between friends.
Its rich choral work is a number that gives a strong push to those looking ahead.
Released in March 2015 as one track of a double A-side single, its other title song, “Girls be Free!,” was chosen as the theme for a fashion event.
A different version is also included on the album “UNLOCK!,” released in March 2024.
It’s a perfect pop tune for those who want to greet farewells with a smile.
The uptempo melody works well as BGM for graduation videos that reflect on precious memories.
Orangeakai kouen

This song’s refreshing melody and emotional band sound really resonate with the heart! The straightforward, powerful vocals cast a bright light on bittersweet themes like parting and new beginnings, giving you the courage to move forward.
Its charm lies in the careful depiction of wavering emotions—stepping into the future while still holding on to lingering feelings.
Created by Akai Ko-en, this single was released in November 2020 as the opening theme for the Fuji TV drama “A Band That Leapt Through Time.” It has been loved by many fans, reaching as high as No.
27 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It’s a great pick to pair with a video for graduates taking a new step while looking back on days spent with friends! A perfect track to add a brilliant touch to a smile-filled graduation movie!
OrangeSPYAIR

A number whose warmth and strength strike the heart, overcoming the sadness of parting and sealing a hopeful promise to meet again.
Sung by SPYAIR, this track’s exhilarating rock sound and sing-along-ready melody lift your spirits! Released in February 2024, it was chosen as the theme song for the anime film Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle and has garnered immense popularity, surpassing 100 million streams.
It paints scenes that evoke irreplaceable memories and bonds with friends, and its upbeat, hope-filled melody for the future adds a brilliant touch to graduation videos.
It’s a highly recommended song for students who want to express their gratitude to dear friends.


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