[2026] A Collection of Youthful Songs to Play at Graduation Ceremonies [J-POP]

My friend — from here on out, forever…Ketsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “My Friend ~ From Here On Forever…”

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.

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Hoshino Takashi

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On the Day of Departure

[Chorus Song] On the Day of Departure / With Lyrics / Singing Practice / Graduation Song #chorus #classchorus #graduationsong #choruscontest

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.

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satou-san

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sakura colorGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Cherry Blossom Color

GReeeeN’s 2013 track “Sakura Color” gives you the strength to do your best until the next time you meet your friends.

After graduation and leaving your hometown, there isn’t a single person who doesn’t feel anxious, right? Even if you step out into the world on your own to chase your dreams, anxiety is part of the deal.

Still, this song portrays the moment you take that first step forward for the sake of the dreams you want to fulfill.

Each person who shared their youth with you is living toward tomorrow’s future, fighting their own anxieties.

Hoping for the day we can all meet again with smiles, give this song a listen.

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SAKI

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Helloyama × bocchiboromaru

yama × Bocchi Boromaru “Hello” Lyric Video (TV anime “Pokémon” opening theme)

Created through the collaboration between yama and Bocchi Boromaru, this work gives listeners the courage to pursue their dreams and hopes.

Released in October 2023, the song was also selected as the opening theme for the anime Pokémon Horizons: The Series.

Centered on themes of hope for the future and the strength to overcome challenges, it carries a distinctly positive and bright atmosphere.

With yama’s androgynous, husky vocals woven together with a moving melody, this track is perfect for graduation ceremonies or moments of taking a new step forward.

It gently encourages those closing the chapter on their youthful days and heading toward a new future.

cherry blossomFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Sakura”

This moving piece conveys feelings of gratitude—often too embarrassing to say out loud—in straightforward words.

The song is the 10th single released in February 2009 by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, who gained popularity with a style that fuses J-pop and hip-hop.

Set against the season of spring, it beautifully portrays the sadness of parting and the hope for the future.

Just listening brings back days spent with friends and makes your heart swell, doesn’t it? Also included on the album “FUNKY MONKEY BABYS 3,” the track was used as the image song for Nippon TV’s “Yokohama International Women’s Ekiden FINAL.” Pair it with photos or videos of memories with friends, and you’ll create an emotionally resonant story post.

It’s the perfect song to color your most precious moments.

cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro

Sakura

It’s one of the quintessential “sakura songs” you want to listen to when spring arrives.

Virtually synonymous with Naotaro Moriyama, this track was released as a single in March 2003 and sold over a million copies.

Its lyrics superimpose farewells to dear friends and moments of new beginnings onto the image of cherry blossoms that bloom beautifully and fall all too quickly, resonating deeply in the heart.

Beyond the sadness of parting, the song also conveys a warm, resilient strength, pledging to reunite in the future while holding onto unchanging feelings.

It was also beloved as the ending theme for the MBS/TBS program “Sekai Ururun Taizai-ki.” It’s a classic you’ll want to play on the day of graduation, reminiscing about the days spent with your friends.

Blue SpringRADWIMPS

Radwimps – Aoi Haru (Blue Spring)

This is an early coming-of-age song by the hugely popular rock band RADWIMPS.

It’s packed with the energy of their still-young days and could be called a hidden gem.

The opening starts in English, but if you take a closer look at the Japanese lyrics that follow, they’re filled with such intense youthfulness it almost makes your chest tighten.

Every line evokes days spent with friends, but the lyrics toward the end of the track, in particular, may make you rediscover how glad you are to have met everyone—and move you to tears.

Be sure to listen while reading the lyrics!

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Hane Keisuke

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