[Graduation Song] A tear-jerking track sung by an idol! A moving piece depicting friendship and gratitude [2026]

I feel like taking the long way home.Nogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'I Want to Take a Detour on the Way Home'

A song whose emotions—singing “I don’t want to leave the place I loved”—resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in 2018 as Nogizaka46’s 22nd single, it captured the hearts of many fans.

It also serves as Nanase Nishino’s graduation song, delicately portraying the anxiety and anticipation of farewells and new beginnings.

With its striking blend of clear piano tones and strings, the track evokes both the loneliness of winter and the hope of spring, resulting in a moving piece.

It’s a song I hope those who fear change yet need the courage to take a step forward will listen to.

Aogeba Tōtoshi ~ from Sakura Gakuin 2014 ~sakura gakuin

Sakura Gakuin – “Aogeba Totoshi ~ from Sakura Gakuin 2014 ~” MV

This is Sakura Gakuin’s cover of the well-known graduation song “Aogeba Tōtoshi,” released in March 2015.

It was also created as a message to the members graduating from Sakura Gakuin.

It reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart.

BeginningChekikko

Beginning

A heartwarming youth song that transforms the farewells of graduation season into a refreshing sense of hope.

Released by Cheki☆Girls in March 1999, this track gently embraces the positive feelings of young people stepping onto new paths under the theme of graduation.

First unveiled on Fuji TV’s popular program “DAIBA Atteki!!,” its breezy melody and uplifting message captured the hearts of many.

Created during Mikuni Shimokawa’s pivotal graduation period, the song is also included on the album “392 ~mikuni shimokawa BEST SELECTION~,” and is cherished as one of the group’s signature numbers.

It remains as captivating as ever—an encouraging anthem for anyone taking a new step, perfect for the spring graduation season.

Much appreciatedchīmu shachihoko

Team Syachihoko – Seriously, Thanks (LIVE from Nippon Gaishi Hall) / Team Syachihoko – Maji Kansha Live Ver.

Certified for the Hall of Fame by the Japan Local Idol Revitalization Association and active under the name TEAM SHACHI since 2018, the idol group Team Syachihoko.

The song “Maji Kansha,” included on the album “Team Syachihoko Practical Edition,” released digitally on July 24, 2015, was chosen as the theme song for the film Daily Lives of High School Boys.

Its lyrics express gratitude for being able to grow while supporting one another, something you may be able to share with friends you’ve spent a long time with.

A refreshing pop tune whose crisp string sound and straightforward message stir the heart, brimming with a sense of clarity.

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Spring sceneryMinamino Yoko

Harugeishiki by Yoko Minamino

This gem of a love song by Yoko Minamino portrays the bittersweet feelings of a young woman entering university and her boyfriend who has become a ronin student after failing his entrance exams, set in the spring of graduation.

Initially included on the April 1986 album “Gelato” and later featured as the B-side of “Kanashimi Monument” in July of the same year, the song delicately captures the subtleties of youth against the backdrop of Kobe.

Amid warm sunlight and fluttering cherry blossoms, the couple’s confusion about their changing circumstances resonates with a nostalgic melody.

Celebrated as a classic idol song, it continues to be loved as a piece that stays close to the heart at life’s milestones—love, parting, and setting out on new journeys.

GraduaterShiina Hekiru

Graduater

Known for its powerful vocals and uplifting message that champions youth, this is a must-have fan favorite at Hekiru Shiina’s live shows.

It vividly portrays the protagonist’s feelings as they cherish bonds with friends and companions while stepping forward toward their own future.

Even when faced with setbacks and doubts, the unwavering will to keep looking ahead and fighting on resonates deeply, carried by a passionate melody.

Since its release in January 1998, it has been widely supported by fans and was included on the album “Baby Blue Eyes.” The guitar work featuring DAITA from SIAM SHADE further enhances the song’s appeal.

It’s a highly recommended track for anyone about to take a new step or for those who want to cheer on someone striving toward their dreams.

A Lonely Graduation CeremonyAsaka Yui

Yui Asaka – A Lonely Graduation Ceremony

Yui Asaka’s “Hitoribocchi no Sotsugyoushiki” is a moving song worthy of being called a graduation classic.

Her fresh, emotionally resonant vocals gently accompany the major life milestone of graduation, heightening the song’s sentimental mood.

The delicately drawn lyrics convey both the sorrow of parting and hope for the future, capturing listeners’ hearts.

That’s why this song has been loved by so many people for years.

In particular, those who spent their youth in the 1980s may find their feelings from that time vividly revived.

And those about to graduate will surely discover new emotion in the song’s universal message.