[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 Collection of Youthful Songs to Hear at Graduation Ceremonies [J-POP] (71–80)
Blue SpringRADWIMPS
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!
DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE
This song features a light rhythm that evokes the warmth of spring and a melody that gently embraces personal doubts and inner conflict.
It portrays, from Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s characteristically down-to-earth perspective, the emotional wavering everyone experiences in youth—wondering whether it’s okay to be one’s true self.
Created as a symbol of the band’s new phase, it was produced as the theme song for the NHK General special program “Mrs.
GREEN APPLE 18 Festival” in January 2025, and its collaboration with 1,000 18-year-olds generated a huge response.
This track warmly and gently nudges forward those beginning a new chapter in life or searching for their authentic selves.
Best FriendNishino Kana
Even with a best friend you love, it’s rare to stay together forever.
This song doesn’t directly sing about sad things like partings or goodbyes.
What the lyrics portray are simply memories with the greatest friend.
Someday you may have to go your separate ways, but even then, you’re still friends—this song teaches us that clearly.
[2026] A Collection of Youthful Songs to Hear at Graduation Ceremonies [J-POP] (81–90)
HarukaYOASOBI
This song by YOASOBI captivates with its richly narrative lyrics and melodies that resonate deeply.
It vividly portrays the protagonist’s growth and the ever-watchful presence of the mug that stays by her side.
Released as a digital-only single in December 2020, it captured the hearts of many listeners, surpassing 100 million streams.
This work is recommended for students approaching graduation or anyone facing a new life milestone.
It’s a track that gently embraces the complex emotions felt before parting with someone important or embarking on a fresh start.
Song of a FriendBUMP OF CHICKEN
It can feel a little embarrassing to thank a friend directly, can’t it? If that’s you, why not be honest with yourself at graduation? “Tomodachi no Uta” is a song that makes you want to say “thank you” to the friends who shared your school life.
Released by BUMP OF CHICKEN in 2011, it was featured in the film Doraemon: Nobita and the New Steel Troops—Winged Angels.
Its lyrics, which express the hope that your friends will remember you even if you’re apart, convey warmth and kindness.
After spending years together with friends, you’ve surely shared smiles, tears, and many moments.
It’s a song that will make you want to express your feelings to your friends as you graduate.
SAKURA GoodbyeSCANDAL
A number that became one of SCANDAL’s signature early works, beautifully capturing both the bittersweetness and freshness that accompany graduation scenes.
Its message, told from a true-to-life perspective, carries a power that evokes universal empathy.
The song had existed since the band’s formation and drew attention when it was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s variety show “Mecha-Mecha Iketeru!” Its up-tempo rock sound and the sense of parting—and anticipation for a new journey—set against the season of cherry blossoms are sure to resonate as spring arrives.
It can be called a gem of a pop tune that colors a page of youth, perfect for listening to at life’s important milestones.
Graduation PhotoArai Yumi
“Sotsugyo Shashin” (Graduation Photo), released by Yumi Matsutoya during her Arai Yumi era, has long been loved by many for its heartwarming melody and lyrics.
Embracing the end of youth and the first steps toward a new future, this gentle, wistful ballad was included on the 1975 album “COBALT HOUR” and has been covered by numerous artists.
Even today, it remains a beloved choice at many graduation ceremonies, a song that recalls cherished memories of graduation day and kindles new dreams in the heart.
As you trace the memories of days gone by at this milestone, why not listen to this song and spend a reflective, moving moment?