AKB48 Graduation Songs, Entrance Ceremony Songs, and Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB481rank/position

[MV full] 365 Nichi no Kamihikōki / AKB48 [Official]

Sung by AKB48, this piece is a warm song with a pleasantly soothing tone.

Its message—that you don’t need to compare yourself to others and can move forward at your own pace—gently encourages listeners.

Although it was a coupling track on the single “Kuchibiru ni Be My Baby,” released in December 2015, it became widely loved as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Asa ga Kita.” As it has also taken root as a choral piece, it’s recommended as a song to celebrate the start of a new chapter during graduation season, when anxiety and excitement are intertwined.

GIVE ME FIVE !AKB482rank/position

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

AKB48, who built an era as “idols you can go to meet” and hold numerous glittering records.

Released in February 2012, this song drew major attention for featuring the members taking on instrumental performance as the band “Baby Blossom.” Although the title doesn’t include the word “sakura,” it centers on springtime farewells and new departures, delivering an uplifting message that resonates: wipe your tears and share a high-five with a smile.

Its 34-minute, drama-style music video and use in various advertising campaigns also became hot topics.

Graduation season can feel somber, but this is a go-to cheer song that gives a push toward a new world—perfect for getting everyone fired up with friends at a reunion karaoke session.

Cherry Blossom BookmarkAKB483rank/position

Cherry Blossom Bookmark [Sakura no Shiori] – AKB48 – HD

AKB48’s 15th single, released in February 2010, was produced as a full-fledged choral piece—something rare for the group.

It was also used as the theme song for the TV drama “Majisuka Gakuen” and debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

Portraying the sadness of parting and the hope for the future through the image of cherry blossom petals scattering, the song has a warmth that engraves the precious moments of youth in the heart.

Its gentle, piano-centered sound and the harmonies sung by all the members resonate deeply.

It’s a perfect track for those who want to sing at graduation or farewell ceremonies, or for anyone facing a goodbye with someone important.

Cherry blossom petalsAKB484rank/position

[PV] AKB48 – Sakura no Hanabiratachi (Cherry Blossom Petals)

Before they became a national idol group, this song epitomized AKB48 in their early days, just after they began performing at their Akihabara theater.

Rather than portraying springtime farewells as merely lonely, the lyrics depict them as a starting point for the future—something that will resonate deeply with many listeners.

The chorus has a sing-along melody that’s perfect for reaffirming bonds with friends.

Released in February 2006 as their first indie single, the track was already widely featured at the time, serving as the theme song for the TBS drama “Desuyone.” and appearing in NTT Docomo commercials, among other tie-ins.

It’s been loved for so long that a remake was produced in 2008.

With its catchy, group-friendly appeal, it’s an inspiring number I’d recommend as karaoke after a graduation ceremony or as background music at a farewell party for a dear friend.

I want to become a cherry blossom tree.AKB485rank/position

AKB48 'SAKURA NO KI NI NAROU' LYRICS (AKB48 'Let’s Become a Cherry Blossom Tree' Lyrics) | Color Coded Lyrics KAN_ROM_ENG

To those whose hearts are full as graduation season arrives and farewells with friends and teachers draw near: this single, released by AKB48 in February 2011, was used as the theme song for the drama “A Letter from Sakura: AKB48’s Individual Graduation Stories,” and it resonated with many people.

Its warm sound, woven from piano and strings, gently embraces both the sadness of parting and the hope of a new beginning.

The lyrics, themed around cherry blossoms, carry a universal message—that even when we’re apart, memories return with the same season—so each listen is sure to bring the faces of loved ones to mind.

With its simple, beautiful melody, it’s easy to perform as a solo with voice and instrument, making it a great choice for graduations and farewell gatherings.

10-year cherry blossomsAKB486rank/position

[MV full] 10nen Zakura / AKB48 [Official]

A song themed around graduation, parting, and reunion was delivered by AKB48 with the arrival of spring.

Centered by Atsuko Maeda and Jurina Matsui, it weaves a story of farewells and reunions with fresh, vivid expressions.

Set to a light, upbeat rhythm, its wishes for the future offer a reassuring message that resonates with the graduation scenes everyone experiences.

Released in March 2009, the single reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to during this season when partings and encounters intersect, as you reflect on memories with someone special.

Jiwara DAYSAKB487rank/position

[MV full] Jiwaru DAYS / AKB48 55th Single [Official]

A bright and energetic farewell song by AKB48! It’s a classic idol-style track typical of the 48 family, with slightly bittersweet lyrics and a message cheering on new departures.

It’s the perfect song when you want to express gratitude and wish someone success in the next chapter of their journey! It might be nice to perform a dance with a few people when singing it at a farewell party, too!

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Hane Keisuke

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