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

A graduation song, a song of friends.19

19 – Sotsugyou no Uta, Tomodachi no Uta

Nineteen iconic songs that give you the courage to take a new step, with memories of graduation in your heart.

Their gentle melodies and heartfelt lyrics beautifully embrace the irreplaceable moments of youth.

Featured on the album “19 BEST Ao,” released in April 2002, they captured the hearts of many.

The lyrics remind you that the everyday life you once thought was boring was actually a treasure—words that will leave a deep mark on anyone facing graduation.

It’s an uplifting anthem that gives you the strength to move forward even in tough times.

A perfect pick for those who, while sorrowfully parting from friends, carry hope for a new future.

Each listen will surely bring back precious memories with dear friends.

We againSG

Us, Again – SG (Official Lyric Video)

SG’s song, themed around parting and reunion, is a perfect coming-of-age track for graduation ceremonies.

Memories with friends, the loneliness of separation, and hope for a new path are conveyed through gentle vocals.

Released in April 2021, the song gained strong support, particularly on social media.

It has been especially popular among students on TikTok.

Set to a soft R&B beat, the lyrics will resonate deeply not only with those about to graduate, but with anyone facing a turning point in life.

It’s a song that gives you the courage to take a new step forward.

March 9Remioromen

Remioromen – March 9th (Music Video Short ver.)

A classic by Remioromen released on March 9, 2004.

Although it was written to celebrate the wedding of a mutual friend of the three band members, its lyrics have made it a longtime favorite as a graduation song even today in the Reiwa era.

The vivid, scene-evoking lyrics and the gentle melody are truly captivating.

The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'The Meaning of Goodbye'

Nogizaka46’s “Sayonara no Imi” is a masterpiece of graduation songs where poignancy intersects with a forward-looking message.

The piano’s beautiful melody heightens the graduation atmosphere, and the lyrics vividly and energetically portray the emotions of growth through meetings and partings.

Moreover, the soaring chorus empowers listeners, brilliantly coloring the moment of stepping into the new beginning that graduation signifies.

Released in 2016 with Nanami Hashimoto as the center, this song has been sung at many graduation ceremonies.

It’s a highly recommended track for everyone who, after a farewell, is setting out toward a new future.

Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46

The Only One Who Knows Is the Graduation Photo by Hinatazaka46

Hinatazaka46’s new song is a poignant work that portrays the bittersweet feelings of love with graduation as its theme.

The lyrics capture memories that resurface in the cherry blossom season and the regret of not being able to confess, resonating deeply with listeners.

It’s the group’s 13th single, released on January 29, 2025, with Nao Kosaka as the center.

The music video, themed “A Parade that Heralds Spring,” has also been released—be sure to check it out.

It’s a perfect track for the graduation season, recommended not only for students but also for anyone who wants to look back on their youth with a touch of nostalgia.

Until graduationBoku ga mitakatta aozora

The Blue Sky I Wanted to See / “Until Graduation” Music Video

This song by Boku ga Mitakatta Aozora portrays the bittersweet feelings of a student on the verge of graduation.

The protagonist’s struggle over whether to confess their feelings to a crush within the limited time before graduation is especially striking.

Released in January 2024, the song captures the transience of youth and the ache of unrequited love, likely resonating with many listeners.

It introduces the group’s first selection system, featuring 12 members on vocals.

It’s a recommended track for students approaching graduation or anyone who wants to revisit the memory of a love that didn’t come true.

The music video, set in a melancholic rural fishing port, further deepens the world of the work.

We’re foreverNEW!KOGYARU

KOGYARU / We Forever [Official Music Video]

KOGYARU is a music project that’s drawn attention with the novel concept of “elementary-school gyaru,” captivating fans with genuinely skilled rap.

Their ninth original track, “Uchira Forever,” released in February 2026, is an emotional number with lyrics penned by producer Yayoi Daimon.

Created as a tribute to a member graduating from the group, the lyrics look back on their journey and memories so far, brimming with a powerful message that their bond won’t fade even as they go their separate ways.

The climactic section, where all 14 members’ voices join in chorus, is sure to tug at listeners’ heartstrings.

It’s a warm graduation song that encourages you to overcome loneliness and step forward into a new future.