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

MONDO PIECEUVERworld

UVERworld　『MONDO PIECE』

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.

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SAKI

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Sakura RabbitKawasaki Takaya

Takanori Kawasaki - Sakura Usagi [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

It’s a heart-wrenchingly bittersweet graduation song that makes you see your timid self in a “rabbit.” After three years of pent-up feelings, all you can manage to say in the end is “thank you.” Doesn’t it make you overlay your own image onto that sweet-and-bitter page of youth? Takaya Kawasaki’s husky yet warm voice gently wraps around the protagonist’s frustrating, unrequited feelings.

Released in January 2021, this song is also included on the album Nukumori (Warmth).

For those who couldn’t say that single word, “I like you,” its message tenderly embraces those painful memories—and if you’ve ever had a one-sided crush, it will surely warm your heart.

Kadode no Ippo (feat. CHICO CARLITO)ASOBOiSM

Kadode no Ippo (feat. CHICO CARLITO)

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

Ikimono-gakari “YELL” Music Video

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.

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nikki

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Graduation PhotoArai Yumi

Graduation Photo – Yumi Arai (Yumi Matsutoya) (Full)

“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?

one’s true feelingssumika

sumika / Honne [Music Video] *Theme song for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Championship

A four-piece rock band, sumika, whose name was born from the concept of “becoming a place that feels like home to many different people.” This song is included on their 3rd album, AMUSIC, and was chosen as the support anthem for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

The lyrics, which sing about memories with irreplaceable people we met during our school days, deeply move the heart on graduation day when we part ways.

With its dramatic arrangement and straightforward words, it makes you truly feel the moment of graduation and teaches the preciousness of friendship—a quintessential youth anthem.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Best FriendNishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'Best Friend (short ver.)'

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.

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satou-san

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