[2026] A Collection of Youthful Songs to Play at Graduation Ceremonies [J-POP]
A graduation ceremony is a major event that brings your youthful days to a close.
You fought, encouraged each other, shared your dreams… Graduation arrives after all those different days you’ve lived through, doesn’t it? On such an important graduation day, don’t you feel like listening to songs that capture the spirit of youth? In this article, we’ll introduce especially youth-evoking graduation songs—from timeless classics to the latest tracks! We’ll also recommend youth anthems that perfectly fit graduation scenes, so be sure to give a variety of songs a listen.
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[2026] A Compilation of Youthful Songs to Hear at Graduation Ceremonies [J-POP] (61–70)
BeginningBLUE ENCOUNT
A masterpiece released in 2016 by BLUE ENCOUNT, a rock band steadily forging their path.
The lyrics, filled with vocalist Tanabe’s passionate feelings, give a push to those striving with all their might, drenched in sweat and tears.
Chosen as the theme song for high school soccer, it’s a moving track that brings listeners to tears.
March 9Fujimaki Ryota
Music that gently wraps the days we spent together and our cherished memories is perfect for the start of graduation, isn’t it? This is the solo version by Ryota Fujimaki of the song Remioromen released in March 2004.
Set to a calm tempo, it portrays the radiance of a new beginning.
Through images of cherry blossoms that come to mind when you close your eyes and metaphors of light illuminating the future, it conveys not only the sorrow of parting but also the feelings of setting off on a journey filled with hope.
Originally written to celebrate a friend’s wedding, it became widely known as an insert song in the 2005 Fuji TV drama “1 Litre of Tears.” This version was released in 2017 as part of Ryota Fujimaki’s solo work.
If you pair it with a message of gratitude or a memory video with friends, it may make those irreplaceable moments even more moving.
Last SongOfisharu Higedan Dism
A song by Official HIGE DANDism released in October 2019 that you’ll want to listen to during graduation season.
Included on the album “Traveler,” this track captures the emotions born in the space between the end that is graduation and a new beginning, with a melody that is both aching and warm.
It was also used as an insert song for the TV drama “Ato 3-kai, Kimi ni Aeru” (“I Can See You Three More Times”), adding another layer of poignancy when paired with the drama’s scenes.
The gentle brass layered over the band sound is soothing, making it a perfect choice to color the moment of graduation.
The lyrics’ vivid depictions of days spent with friends resonate deeply with students about to graduate.
Give it a listen while reflecting on your own memories.
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
It’s the official theme song for NHK’s Athens Olympics broadcasts.
It’s a wonderful cheer song that has since been used in many places.
The lyrics are very straightforward, delivering a simple message: “There were hard and painful times, but I made it this far thanks to everyone’s support.” Try singing it for yourself, or for someone important to you.
Letter ~Dear You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki
A signature song by Angela Aki released in 2008.
It was specially written as the set piece for the junior high school division of the NHK National School Music Competition.
Famous as a choral piece, it’s a classic often sung at graduation ceremonies.
The lyrics take the form of a letter addressed to one’s future self, filled with words that also resonate deeply with adults who receive the letter.
My friend — from here on out, forever…Ketsumeishi
A music group named after a traditional Chinese medicinal herb—associated with “expelling everything”—Ketsumeishi releases their 29th single.
Chosen as the theme song for the animated film Crayon Shin-chan: Fast Asleep! The Great Assault on the Dreaming World, the track features a driving four-on-the-floor kick drum beat and warm string tones that lift the spirits.
Its lyrics, depicting friendships that remain unchanged even after graduation, soothe the anxiety of impending separation.
With a message that our bonds won’t change, so let’s part with a smile for now, it’s a song that brightens graduation ceremonies and gives you a gentle push at life’s crossroads.
On the Day of Departure
Many people have probably sung it at a school chorus competition or at their graduation ceremony.
When we hear “choral piece” or “children’s song,” we tend to take it lightly, but this song gently conveys its message—it’s truly a “good song.” After learning what feelings went into its creation, please listen to it once while carefully following the lyrics.
It will surely resonate with your heart.