[2026] Songs for Graduation Season: Exquisite Japanese Unrequited Love and Breakup Tracks

Graduationsaitou yuki

Yuki Saito “Graduation” MV

When it comes to Yuki Saito’s debut single, surely this classic comes to mind.

With Takashi Matsumoto and Kyohei Tsutsumi teaming up, it beautifully portrays the poignant scenes of graduation.

The imagery of the uniform buttons, the gap between the tears others expect and one’s own feelings—these subtle shades of youth resonate through her crystal-clear voice.

Released in February 1985, the song also drew attention as the CM track for Myojo Foods’ “Ramen Called Youth.” It was included on the acclaimed album AXIA and later self-covered on the 2021 album Suikyo-kyoku (Water Capriccio).

The lyrics convey a realism that isn’t just sweet; there’s a slightly cool, detached perspective that set it apart from typical idol songs of the time.

It’s a track for anyone who wants to savor the unique atmosphere of graduation season or sink into bittersweet memories.

Graduation -GRADUATION-Kikuchi Momoko

Graduation -GRADUATION-

A classic ballad that tightens the chest with the soft light of spring and a bittersweet air tinged with the premonition of farewell.

Momoko Kikuchi’s clear, translucent voice gently paints the inner landscape of graduation as a life milestone.

Released as a single in February 1985, it became familiar as the song for Shiseido’s “Acne” commercial and as the theme for a TV drama in which she starred.

After being included on the album “TROPIC of CAPRICORN,” the sophisticated sound crafted by Tetsuji Hayashi shone even brighter.

Many listeners may find that this song vividly brings back the tender crushes and scenes of those days.

It’s a warm number that quietly stands by anyone who feels the sadness of parting with an unrequited love or who wants to cherish the memories of that time.

GraduationMy Hair is Bad

My Hair is Bad – Graduation (Official Video)

My Hair is Bad is a rock band that grips listeners’ hearts and never lets go with candid lyrics and a driving sound.

This song is perfect for the season, intertwining the end of a romance with a fresh new start.

Its vivid imagery and confessional, narrative tone tighten the chest of anyone who listens.

Included on their major-label debut single “Jidai o Atsumete,” released in May 2016, it also drew attention for having a music video produced as a sequel to their signature track “Makka.” The protagonist’s struggle to accept a breakup resonates with painful realism.

It’s the kind of song that will surely give you a push—whether you’re two people parting ways after graduation or you’re ready to put a period on a past love.

forget-me-notAwesome City Club

Awesome City Club / Wasurena (MUSIC VIDEO)

Produced as an inspiration song for the film “We Made a Beautiful Bouquet,” it quickly became a hot topic when it was released for streaming in January 2021.

Performed by Awesome City Club, this piece vividly portrays scenes of a past love through the bittersweet yet beautiful harmonies of its male–female twin vocals and its sweeping strings.

True to its flower-derived title, the message isn’t just about mourning lost time; it encourages moving forward into the future while holding precious memories close—perfect for graduation and farewell season.

In 2023, it surpassed 300 million streams, continuing to resonate with many people.

It’s a warm ballad that gently gives you a push when you wish to let past loves and memories bloom like beautiful flowers.

Snow WhiteFlower

Flower “Snow White” — 2nd album “Hanadokei (Flower Clock)” out 3/4

This is a poignant ballad, inspired by the world of fairy tales, that portrays forbidden love and uncontrollable emotions.

Flower’s fragile yet beautiful performance, combined with the lyrical world crafted by Masato Kotake, deeply resonates in the heart.

Released in December 2013 as their sixth single, it became the group’s first work to rank in the Top 3 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

It was chosen as the theme song for the NOTTV drama “We’re All Dead♪,” and its worldview, which tied in with the story, became a hot topic.

The song was later included on the album “Flower.” If you’re hurting from an unrequited love or looking to quietly sort out your emotions at night, why not give it a listen? Immerse yourself in this work that depicts the struggle that sways between reason and instinct, and surely your tightly wound heart will be set free.

When I turn around…Janne Da Arc

Janne Da Arc – If I Turn Around…

This is the quintessential ballad by a visual-kei rock band that you’ll find yourself wanting to listen to whenever graduation season comes around.

Released in February 2006 as Janne Da Arc’s 25th single, it was also chosen as the theme song for the film “HIRAKATA,” set in the band’s hometown.

The lyrics, which lament parting while pledging to meet again someday, vividly capture the radiance of a youth that will never return.

With yasu’s true-to-life words and the beautiful melody crafted by ka-yu, this rock number resonates deeply.

Give it a listen after your graduation ceremony or in moments when you think of old friends amid a new life.

The sorrow of going your separate ways will surely be transformed into hope for tomorrow.

First loveMurashita Kōzō

Kozo Murashita “Hatsukoi” Music Video

Do you remember watching that person from afar with your eyes in the schoolyard after classes? This song by Kozo Murashita is a masterpiece that vividly brings back those sweet yet bittersweet scenes.

Released as a single in February 1983, its melody steeped in Japanese sentiment and its beautiful Japanese lyrics have captivated many hearts and won’t let go.

Carried by the sound of the acoustic guitar, Murashita’s crystal-clear voice gently embraces the feelings we couldn’t put into words.

The song has been covered by numerous artists across generations and has been sung for a long time.

It’s also fresh in our memories that in 2022, after 39 years, the music video was released on February 25—the original release date.

For those who harbor a frustrating crush, or those who want to sink into memories of their youthful days, it’s sure to bring a time that warms the depths of your heart.