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

1096Cody Rī (Ri)

Cody・Lee (Li) – 1096 (Music Video)

Cody・Lee (Li), a band that exudes a unique blend of wistfulness and warmth woven into everyday life, offers a farewell-themed number.

Written by vocalist and guitarist Hibiki Takahashi in the winter when he dropped out of high school at 18, the lyrics don’t celebrate a radiant youth; instead, they chronicle three “hopeless” years, capturing the feelings of a high schooler in a true-to-life way.

Hailing from Hanamaki City in Iwate Prefecture, Takahashi threads a graduation song whose world is suffused with the quiet beauty of steadily falling snow and a gentle overflow of everyday dignity and love—an atmosphere that’s absolutely irresistible.

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hiyori

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Photo of three peopleKiroro

Photo of three people

Kiroro is a duo formed by high school classmates, beloved for their heartwarming songs that touch the soul.

“Three-Person Photo,” included on their first album, “Nagais Aida ~Kiroro no Mori~,” leaves a lasting impression with its light yet floating ensemble.

Its message—let’s each go our own way with this new departure, yet keep our bond unchanged—captures the feelings that only a graduation ceremony can evoke.

With clear, powerful vocals that stir the heart, it’s a graduation song especially recommended for women.

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Hoshino Takashi

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graduation ceremonySARD UNDERGROUND

SARD UNDERGROUND “Graduation Ceremony” MV

Debuting as a ZARD tribute band, SARD UNDERGROUND has been attracting attention with their covers of timeless classics.

Their fifth single, “Graduation Ceremony,” as the title suggests, features a refreshing melody and ensemble that perfectly suit the graduation season and feel wonderfully pleasant.

The lyrical message, evoking the world of Izumi Sakai’s lyrics, will likely resonate even with younger generations who didn’t know ZARD in real time.

Though a tribute band, their sound reflects a modern evolution that strikes a chord—this is a track we hope listeners of all ages will hear.

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Hoshino Takashi

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SAKURA GoodbyeSCANDAL

SCANDAL “SAKURA Goodbye” / Sakura Goodbye – Music Video

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.

my graduationSPEED

SPEED / my graduation -Music Video-

Released in 1998, “my graduation” is one of SPEED’s signature songs.

As the title suggests, it evokes the idea of graduation, but rather than a formal “graduation ceremony,” it portrays a person graduating from something in their life—looking back on memories while trying to take a new step forward.

It can also be interpreted as a love song: if you once fell in love at school and that romance has since ended, the song may feel even more personal.

Although many years have passed since its release, it remains a staple that still comes to mind when people think of graduation songs.

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utatane

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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.

a word on the windtayori

tayori – Tidings on the Wind (Official Video)

This song, performed by the music unit tayori—comprised of vocalist isui and composers tazuneru and raku—depicts a step forward toward the future.

The lyrics, which reflect on cherished memories and portray each person taking their own first steps into what lies ahead, are a perfect fit for graduation scenes.

You can feel an overall refreshing atmosphere in the brisk pacing of the sound and the grand build-up toward the chorus.

The combination of lyrics that urge us to move forward with our accumulated memories in our hearts and this fresh sound evokes a positive emotion, as if wishing happiness for everyone’s future.

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kappamaki

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