[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] (101–110)
Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri
A song that truly resonates during graduation season is Yuuri’s “Sakurabare.” Yuuri, known for “Dry Flower” and “Kakurenbo,” released this track digitally in 2021.
Perfect for closing out one’s youth, the song carries a moving message of gratitude to one’s parents.
Yuuri’s emotional vocals powerfully convey that thankfulness and are sure to capture listeners’ hearts.
As you look back on bonds with friends and family at graduation and take your next step forward, this song will be a source of encouragement for many.
spring sunlightKanapu × Kujira
A song released in March 2022 by the virtual singer-songwriter KAF and producer Kujira.
Its warm tones evoke the arrival of spring, and the lyrics delicately depict scenes of graduation.
The cute, pop sound pairs perfectly with KAF’s crystal-clear vocals.
It’s a track that gently embraces the complex emotions of those facing graduation—loneliness in parting, gratitude, and the excitement of a new beginning.
A song we hope everyone embarking on a new chapter will listen to.
Be sure to give it a spin on graduation day or when saying goodbye to a dear friend.
spring skySuzuki Suzuki
A ballad themed around graduation, it expresses a swirl of youthful emotions—joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness.
The lyrics carry gratitude for friendship and the past, as well as hope for the future, stirring deep empathy in listeners.
Released in February 2022, the song carefully traces the protagonist’s feelings as they step into a new life.
It’s a perfect track for the season when farewells and encounters, and the tension of new beginnings, all coexist.
Its message that friends can reunite soon after graduation, along with a warm sentiment of cherishing the days gone by as precious treasures, gently resonates in the heart.
Highly recommended for anyone embarking on a new start under the spring sunshine.
Song of DepartureMr.Children
Mr.Children’s “Tabidachi no Uta” (“Song of Departure”) is a track that inspires you to keep walking toward a wonderful life, even after the joyful days of youth have passed.
Released in 2007, it was used as the theme song for the film “Koizora.” No one faces the future starting tomorrow without feeling some anxiety.
When you’re uneasy, this song encourages you to remember the days spent with your best friends and the school you loved, and to keep moving forward.
It’s not an ending, but the first step of a beginning—take that step with this song!
Live in the present.Saucy Dog
This work was created as a cheering song for the National High School Soccer Championship.
Delivered by Saucy Dog, it’s a moving track that sings about the importance of youth and hard work.
The lyrics powerfully depict the brilliance of living fully in the “now,” resonating deeply with listeners.
Released in December 2022, it garnered attention alongside its digital release and music video.
The cover illustration was created by contemporary artist Keita Morimoto, drawing attention for its collaboration with the art world.
It’s a song filled with courage and hope, one we especially recommend to those facing graduation or new challenges.
[2026] A Compilation of Youthful Songs to Hear at Graduation [J-POP] (111–120)
Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa
Lord of Major’s “Taisetsu na Mono” evokes the enduring bonds with friends who have always supported and encouraged each other.
Released in 2002, this song became a big hit despite being an indie release.
Some of you may have met people during your school years who you can truly call lifelong friends.
Even if you graduate and go your separate ways, those bonds don’t break so easily.
Listen to this song while appreciating how you will always be special to each other.
If I sing to the sky175R
It’s a positive yet slightly bittersweet song that captures how memories of youth suddenly come flooding back, and how those days enable us to keep moving toward our dreams now.
It also portrays the attempt to send those cherished memories and feelings of gratitude to friends.
This is one of 175R’s signature tracks, known as a coming-of-age anthem that has stayed in the hearts of many listeners.