Friendship songs recommended for high school students: classic and popular J‑pop hits

Savoring youthIkuta Rira feat. ano

Lilas Ikuta feat. ano “Seishun Ouka” Official Music Video

A song has been born that portrays the syrupy monotony of everyday life while showing how those very days will one day shine as treasured memories.

The warm voices of Lila Ikuta and ano ride the melody and quietly resonate.

Pure bewilderment at changes in the world and our surroundings, along with a strong resolve to overcome them together with someone dear, gently seep into the heart alongside the tender tune.

Released in March 2024 as the theme song for the latter chapter of the film Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction, the work also drew attention for the two artists’ performances as voice actors.

It is a heartwarming piece that embraces those who cherish the small joys hidden in a student’s daily life, the casual conversations with friends, and those who strive to face forward without fearing change.

Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46

The Only One Who Knows Is the Graduation Photo by Hinatazaka46

A graduation-themed song with a poignant love story layered over the cherry blossom season leaves a strong impression.

Hinatazaka46’s clear, pure vocals gently embrace memories of the past and feelings that were never confessed.

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

The music video, set on a graduation day, was released in December 2024.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to in the season when the arrival of spring brings back nostalgic feelings.

Highly recommended for students approaching graduation and for anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear.

Bestieyuka

Yuka “Bestie” Music Video

This is a song by Yuka that depicts ordinary, everyday moments spent with a dear friend while directly expressing the feelings she has for them.

The bright, cheerful sound leaves a strong impression, conveying how much fun the time spent together feels.

It portrays memories of supporting each other through both happy and difficult times, and expresses gratitude.

The song carries a message of continuing to support one another as you head toward the future, and you can feel the strength of a deep bond.

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Because we’re friends.Ochiai Wataru

Wataru Ochiai – Because We’re Friends (Music Video)

This song gently sings about memories and farewells with dear friends, carried by a warm, heartfelt vocal.

Wataru Ochiai’s comforting voice resonates, bringing to mind scenes from school days and moments of parting.

Set to a ballad-style melody, it carefully expresses the importance of friendship and feelings of gratitude, and was released in February 2022.

A simple arrangement centered on piano and acoustic guitar further highlights the emotional depth of the lyrics.

It’s recommended not only for those facing graduation or goodbyes, but also for anyone who wants to fondly recall their school-day friends.

The song has gained buzz on social media and continues to be cherished as an anthem of youth.

Best FriendNishino Kana

[75th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen Performance Song] 'Best Friend' MV Full

A heartwarming ballad filled with gratitude and love for friendship.

Kana Nishino’s straightforward lyrics, which express her feelings for her friends, truly resonate.

Released in February 2010, the song was also used for NTT Docomo’s exam-support campaign.

Even if you feel things like, “Because you were there, every day was fun,” or “No matter how many times I say thank you, it’ll never be enough,” it can be a bit embarrassing to say them directly.

Listening to this song together with the people you care about in spring—when graduations and new school terms bring change—can help you reaffirm your feelings for each other and take the first step together into a new stage.

My friendMiyuhan

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

It’s a beautiful song that portrays the friendships of youth.

Miyuhan’s clear, transparent voice vividly colors precious memories with friends.

Released in February 2017, this track was also used as the ending theme for the TV anime “Kemono Friends,” resonating with many listeners.

The lyrics contain both the sadness of parting from friends and the hope of seeing them again, making your heart swell every time you listen.

It’s a song I especially recommend to high school students.

Try humming it with friends or singing it at your graduation ceremony—it will surely become a wonderful, lasting memory.

Team friendsChiba Yūki

Yūki Chiba – Team Tomodachi (Official Music Video)

A warm song that etches bonds with friends and memories with your crew into your heart.

Yuki Chiba’s gentle vocals really sink in.

The repeated phrase “Team Tomodachi” in the chorus powerfully conveys a sense of unity with your mates.

Released in February 2024, this track blew up on social media! The music video, filmed with around 80 local friends, feels like a festival.

Listening to it will surely make you think of your own cherished friends.

It’s perfect for turning up the energy at karaoke or creating memories with your crew.