RAG MusicGraduation
A lovely graduation song

[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.

[2026] A Collection of Youthful Songs to Hear at Graduation Ceremonies [J-POP] (141–150)

JourneyFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – Tabiji (Official Video)
JourneyFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze’s moving masterpiece is a gem that portrays the journey of life.

Its soundscape, where nostalgic breakbeats intertwine with the warm tones of a Wurlitzer, leaves a strong impression.

Released in March 2021, the song was used as the theme for TV Asahi’s Thursday drama “Nijiiro Karte.” It marked Fujii’s first drama tie-in and reached No.

1 on the Billboard Japan Download Chart.

It’s a perfect song for graduates looking back on their youthful days while taking a step toward the future.

The music video, filmed in his hometown of Satosho, Okayama Prefecture, is also a must-see.

Report a problem

Bond.haji→

“Kizuna,” Haj→’s 2016 track, sings about an unbreakable bond with friends.

The ties that grew stronger as you played together and encouraged each other in tough times won’t vanish even after graduation.

It’s a song that reaffirms your resolve to always cherish those precious friends—true best friends with whom you feel at ease, who lift your spirits, and for whom you want to be a source of strength no matter what.

If you’re anxious about being apart from your friends, try listening to it together and reaffirm your bond.

SAKI
Report a problem

Youth and a momentmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Youth and a Moment” MV
Youth and a momentmakaroni enpitsu

A March 2019 song by Macaroni Empitsu that speaks to cherishing every moment of youth.

Written specifically for McDonald’s 500-yen Value Set, the track carries a message that resonates deeply with young listeners.

The music video features actress Nana Mori and was filmed in Hattori’s hometown of Yamanashi.

Its refreshing, comfortable melody and emotional vocals bring out both the light and shadow of school days.

It’s a perfect song to color the moment of graduation—one you’ll want to hear while feeling hope for the future.

Report a problem

[2026] A Collection of Youthful Songs to Hear at Graduation Ceremonies [J-POP] (151–160)

voiceikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari’s new song is a heartwarming track that portrays both the strong feelings of those who cheer others on and the emotions of those receiving encouragement.

With a refreshing melody and powerful lyrics, it centers on the theme of support in sports.

The song was released digitally in advance in November 2023 and is included on the album “◯,” released in December.

It was written specifically for a student sports support project.

The lyrics foster a sense of unity between supporters and the supported, making it a wonderful song that gives a push to everyone striving toward their dreams and goals.

Report a problem

GIVE ME FIVE !AKB48

[MV full] GIVE ME FIVE! / AKB48 [Official]
GIVE ME FIVE !AKB48

AKB48’s 2012 number “GIVE ME FIVE!” is a song that lets you celebrate graduation not with tears, but with a smile.

The title refers to a high five.

At live shows, the members themselves performed the song under the name Baby Blossom.

It doesn’t deny the tears of parting, but conveys a positive message: after you cry, smile and look ahead to the bright future starting tomorrow.

While looking back on various memories of youth, it’s a song that lets you say “See you” to your friends with a smile, not a tear-streaked face, in the end.

SAKI
Report a problem

THANXWANIMA

WANIMA- THANX(OFFICIAL VIDEO)
THANXWANIMA

THANX is a song by WANIMA, a Japanese rock band formed in 2010, in which they powerfully sing “thank you,” facing forward after overcoming hardship, frustration, and sadness.

Released in 2015, this track is an anthem that encourages people to move toward the future, saying it’s okay even if you’re covered in wounds.

It’s also perfect as a graduation song for the season of farewells, supporting those stepping onto a new stage with the message “It’ll be okay.” The line that says it’s not hearts that are parting, only distance, resonates strongly with anyone facing a goodbye.

nikki
Report a problem

Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro

Sakura (Dokusho) by Naotaro Moriyama has long been beloved as both a graduation song and a cherry-blossom song.

The band-performance version was included on his 2002 album Kawaita Uta wa Sakana no Esa ni Chodo Ii, and the following year the single release featured this solo-vocal version.

It’s a piece that brings back memories of the many days spent with friends who helped you through tough times, alongside the beautiful scenery of cherry blossoms.

Give it a sing at your graduation ceremony—or at the after-party that follows!

SAKI
Report a problem

In conclusion

Graduation songs are precious companions that color those special moments where partings and new beginnings intersect.

I hope that among the graduation songs introduced here, you’ll find one that resonates perfectly with your feelings.

Songs have the power to convey emotions that words alone cannot.

May this milestone of a graduation ceremony be etched deeply in your heart as an irreplaceable memory, accompanied by voices that truly move you.