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

Sakura, You, and Ituki.

tuki. 'Sakura Kimi Watashi' Official Music Video

A heartwarming youth song that condenses graduation, partings, and the transience of love into a single track.

Featured as an insert song in ABEMA’s dating reality show “Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita.

Graduation Edition 2024,” it was crafted by tuki.

with delicate sensitivity.

A gentle melody led by acoustic guitar intertwines with clear vocals to carefully portray the feeling of basking in memories.

Released in January 2024, the track also drew attention for its animated music video by Posuka Demizu, the illustrator of the manga The Promised Neverland.

It’s a youth anthem that will resonate not only with students facing the end of their school days but also with anyone who has experienced a farewell with someone dear.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE

EXILE / Michi (Short Ver.)

This is the 23rd single by EXILE, a dance and vocal group whose dynamic performances and gentle vocals captivate listeners across generations.

A ballad themed around graduation and new beginnings, it was used as the opening theme for the music variety show “Music Fighter” and as the approaching-train melody at Keikyu’s Kanazawa-Hakkei Station.

The lyrics, which long for an everlasting youth yet keenly feel the passage of time, resonate even more deeply in the context of a graduation ceremony.

It’s a song that conveys the special nature of graduation—filled with gratitude and determination, yet unable to shake a lingering loneliness.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Ode to YouthMomoiro Kurōbā Zetto

[Momoiro Clover Z MV] Seishunfu / Momoiro Clover Z (Seishunfu / Momoiro Clover Z)

The fresh, sparkling number “Seishunfu” captures a glittering moment of youth.

This track by Momoiro Clover Z was released in 2015 as their 14th single and served as the ending theme for the film “Maku ga Agaru.” Perfect for graduation season, its melody and lyrics overflow with the anxiety of setting out and the bittersweetness of parting, making it fitting for young people about to embark on their future.

It’s truly a graduation ceremony classic—many students likely want to sing it at their own ceremonies.

The beautiful piano and chorus are also deeply moving.

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nikki

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Because we’re friends.Ochiai Wataru

Wataru Ochiai – Because We’re Friends (Music Video)

This song, which sings of the end of youth and a new beginning, was released in February 2022.

Wataru Ochiai’s warm vocals gently embrace memories of school days.

Days spent in uniforms, casual chats with friends, fun times at karaoke—each everyday moment is captured in lyrics that truly resonate.

While it carries the sadness of parting, the piece is filled with hope, dreaming of the day we meet again.

It’s perfect for graduations or reunions.

Why not hum along with friends and bask in those nostalgic memories?

Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai

Dai Hirai / The Way Home in March (Lyric Video)

A heartwarming ballad filled with memories of youth and the anticipation of a new journey.

Dai Hirai’s gentle vocals resonate as if they seep into the listener’s heart.

Interweaving gratitude for days spent together with hope for the future, the lyrics seem to capture the complex emotions of those facing graduation.

Released in February 2022, this piece is perfect for the graduation season.

Its simple arrangement of just piano and strings further highlights the lyrical world.

Ideal not only as background music for graduation ceremonies and farewell parties, it’s also a song you’ll want to hear before parting with someone important.

Blue SpringSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “Aoi Haru” Music Video (Full)

This is a message song that refreshingly portrays memories and growth from youth, singing about the importance of human connections.

Released by SUPER BEAVER in March 2016 and selected as the web commercial song for Taisho Pharmaceutical’s Lipovitan D, the track stands out with its powerful band sound and emotional vocals.

Also included on the album “27,” it gently speaks of past experiences, hopes for the future, and how someone’s presence can give meaning to life.

It’s recommended listening for seasons of new beginnings—graduations, school admissions, or the start of a new life.

After experiencing meetings and farewells, listening while thinking of someone important will make the song resonate even more deeply.

In the Blueikimonogakari

Ikimonogakari “In the Blue” (Mitsuya Cider theme song) Music Video

Ikimonogakari’s March 2024 track evokes a sense of freedom like a summer sky.

Its bright, refreshing sound captures sparkling youth and bursts of emotion.

Featured in a Mitsuya Cider commercial, it won many hearts through synergy with the ad.

Also included on the album “〇,” this song is perfect for those in the midst of their youth.

Singing about the importance of trusting friends and believing in yourself, it’s recommended for anyone who wants to shine at a school festival or cultural festival.

It’s a song that lets you feel the courage to start something together and the value of taking on challenges, so be sure to give it a listen.