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

My friendMiyuhan

Miyuhan “Boku no Friend” - TV Size - (TV Anime ‘Kemono Friends’ Ending Theme) MV

This song, which sings of the importance of friendship and the loneliness of parting, was included on the album “Self Schema,” released in February 2017.

It was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Kemono Friends, and there were also scenes where the character “Sand Cat,” played by Mewhan, sings it.

The piece is a youth anthem that speaks of friendship that lasts forever and celebrates the miracle of precious encounters.

The lyrics express both the sadness that comes with the end of youth and the strength to take a bold step toward a new future.

Filled with a warm message that cherishes the bonds with irreplaceable friends, this song is perfect for graduation ceremonies or moments of parting with friends.

Our JourneyKaneyori Masaru

Kaneyori Masaru [Our Journey] Music Video

A song by Kaneyori Masaru, known for their sweet, cute vocals and driving band sound, that captures a page of youth.

Released digitally in June 2023, it was selected as the theme song for the Lemino original drama “Afterschool Embankment Diary.” The music video features actress Riko, depicting scenes that evoke friendship, romance, and the unfading days of youth.

Singing about small everyday wonders, cherished memories, and hope for the future, the track is included on their fourth mini-album, “Namiutsu Kokoro o Mochinagara,” released in February 2024.

It’s a song you’ll want to play on special days spent with dear friends, like graduation ceremonies and school festivals.

Connect!Misaka Saki

Saki Misaka – Connect! (Full ver.)

This is a song filled with a passionate message for those living their youth to the fullest.

The lyrics express the journey walked alongside friends and gratitude for those who offered support.

Released in October 2021, the track, carried by Saki Misaka’s powerful vocals, resonates with many listeners.

Chosen as the support song for the 98th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, it drew attention as an anthem that encourages young people’s efforts.

It’s a piece we hope people will listen to at graduation ceremonies or when embarking on a new chapter.

As you feel the importance of bonds with friends and the spirit of taking on challenges, you’re sure to find courage for the road ahead.

Graduation Daynamu abedabutsu

Namu Abedabutsu - “Graduation Day” (Official Music Video) Dedicated to all graduates

A graduation ceremony marks the end of student life.

The perfect song for that special day is this track by Namu Abedabutsu.

Released as a digital single in January 2021, it was created based on their experiences right after graduating high school.

The lyrics, filled with the sadness of parting, hope for the future, and feelings of gratitude, are sure to resonate deeply with students facing graduation.

This down-to-earth youth anthem, sung over a powerful punk rock beat, is perfect for looking back on memories with friends.

Highly recommended for those who want to get everyone fired up at a graduation live show or farewell party.

Blue in the classroomHoshimachi Suisei

[MV] A Classroom in Blue / Suisei Hoshimachi (hololive × HoneyWorks) [#HoloHani Original]

A gently sung track by Suisei Hoshimachi that celebrates youthful memories and the importance of friendship.

Included on Hololive and HoneyWorks’ collaborative album “Horohani-gaoka High School,” released in February 2024, this song is an emotional rock number that evokes the end of a school festival or the quiet moments around a campfire.

Her expressive vocals vividly portray school-day memories and the bonds between friends, resonating deeply with listeners.

Standing before the farewell we call graduation, it captures both the preciousness of the days spent together and the resolve to walk our own paths from here on.

Before taking that next step, why not listen to it with someone important to you?

Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki

RailSimPV4 "Far, Far Away"

A classic by Noriyuki Makihara filled with memories of youth.

It beautifully captures the feelings of a protagonist who leaves their hometown to chase dreams in the big city.

Included on the 1992 album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” it was never released as a single, yet it’s beloved by many fans.

You can feel the mix of anxiety and anticipation toward a changing environment, as well as the cherished bond with friends back home.

In 2006, a new version was used in an NTT East Japan commercial, bringing the song back into the spotlight.

It’s perfect to listen to during graduation and send-off seasons—sure to give you the courage to face a new chapter.

Gazing up, the sky is blueHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata / Aogeba Aozora Music Video

A song packed with memories of youth deepens the emotion of the graduation ceremony even more.

The lyrics woven by Motohiro Hata gently portray the changing seasons and shifts in human relationships.

The intertwining of the sadness of parting and the hope for a new departure resounds with a melody that sinks into the heart.

Released in March 2019, this piece was written specifically for a TV commercial.

It’s the perfect song for those cherishing their school-day memories while taking a step into the future.

If you listen to it together with your friends on graduation day, it will surely become an unforgettable memory.