[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] (81–90)
Kadode no Ippo (feat. CHICO CARLITO)ASOBOiSM
This work, presented by ASOBOiSM—an artist with a commanding presence in the music scene—holds a place as a graduation song.
Its lyrics, which portray the feelings of setting out from a familiar place, resonate deeply with listeners.
Featuring CHICO CARLITO as a guest, the track showcases both of their distinctive styles.
Released in March 2024 and self-produced by ASOBOiSM, the song is imbued with her unique essence.
It’s recommended for those seeking the courage to take a new step forward, as well as students approaching graduation.
You’re sure to relate to the determination to move ahead while carrying both hopes and anxieties about change and growth.
YELLikimonogakari
YELL, which was created as the set piece for the junior high school division of the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition, is a song by the Japanese three-piece band Ikimono-gakari.
Although the request was for a bright and lively song, lyricist and composer Yoshiki Mizuno recalled his own deeply troubled teenage years as he worked on it.
As a result, the slow-tempo YELL was selected.
True to its title—signifying a cheer of encouragement—the song is quiet yet firmly powerful, and it remains a beloved staple at graduation ceremonies to this day.
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?
MONDO PIECEUVERworld
UVERworld’s 2011 track “MONDO PIECE” inspires the feeling that we’ll always be friends, even if we’re apart.
Maybe you just happened to meet someone at the same school, in the same class—but by spending so much time together during school life, your bond deepened and that person became a precious friend.
The lyrics convey a strong desire to always stay together with such friends, and the belief that no matter where you are, what truly matters doesn’t change.
It’s also a great song to sing together with your close friends.
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.
Gift SongCHiCO with HoneyWorks
A collaboration unit consisting of a female singer and a creator team, CHiCO with HoneyWorks.
This track is included on their second album, “The Songs of i That Color Me,” and its lyrical arrangement—featuring acoustic guitar, piano, and strings—evokes the graduation ceremonies we all picture.
The lyrics, which express gratitude to a beloved teacher, let you feel both the reality of having graduated safely and a profound sense of love.
Friends who ran alongside you through your youth are precious, of course, but this is a graduation song that also reminds you of the teacher who always watched over you with kindness.
[2026] A Collection of Youthful Songs to Hear at Graduation Ceremonies [J-POP] (91–100)
graduation songerica
Singer-songwriter erica, whose lyrics themed around “love within a two-meter radius” resonate and have garnered strong support particularly among young women.
The track “Graduation Song,” included on her second digital EP, “Confession Weather: Between White and Red,” features delicate arrangements and a string sound that creates a floating sense and depth, leaving a pleasant impression in the ear.
Its message—that graduation is not an end but a beginning—suggests the new paths each of us will take from here.
It’s an encouraging song that gives you the courage to step into the future, perfect for listening to at a graduation ceremony.