Popular Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

Precious friendSakushi: Itsumi Ryūichirō / Sakkyoku: Furukawa Tatsuya78rank/position

Dear Friends – <Graduation Song> [Japanese Songs / Shoka]

Here’s an introduction to a moving song that’s being performed more and more often at kindergarten graduation ceremonies.

The lyrics were written by Ryuichiro Henmi, an active video director, and the music was composed by Tatsuya Furukawa, known in the game music world.

Created in 2009 as part of Benesse’s kindergarten graduation support campaign, the song was sung in the 2013 school year by children at 5,071 kindergartens nationwide—about 250,000 kids—and its cumulative CD shipments have surpassed one million.

The lyrics weave in specific episodes from kindergarten life—like getting back up after falling during a sports day thanks to friends’ cheers, or making up after a fight—which deeply resonate.

It was also used in a TV commercial in 2014, bringing it into many homes alongside touching graduation scenes.

With a bright melody tinged with a hint of poignancy, the tune suits a wide range of moments, from entrance music to slideshow background tracks.

It’s a perfect song for a graduation ceremony where you want to express gratitude to friends and teachers.

Best FriendNishino Kana79rank/position

Kana Nishino “Best Friend” [Track on 15th Anniversary ‘ALL TIME BEST’]

Kana Nishino’s “Best Friend” is a heart-stirring song that’s perfect for graduation season.

The song is filled with gratitude and love for friends, resonating especially with people in their teens and twenties.

Nishino’s clear voice and relatable lyrics touch the hearts of many young listeners.

As farewells draw near, why not use this song to express the gratitude that’s hard to put into words? To forever cherish the precious memories with your friends, give “Best Friend” a listen.

It’s sure to bring back wonderful moments.

It’s okayji ma ma80rank/position

jimama “It’s Okay”

Many of you probably remember that gentle singing voice from the commercial! This song by jimama, a singer-songwriter from Okinawa, is a warm ballad that seems to wrap listeners’ anxieties in comfort.

The words, inspired by “the precious person who always supports you,” resonate deeply with hearts facing graduation or a new departure.

Released as a single in April 2009, it was featured in a Taiyo Yakuhin Kogyo TV commercial at the time and played in living rooms across the country.

It topped the charts in Okinawa and was rediscovered after a 2014 TV appearance, remaining a beloved classic.

It’s also included on the album “BEST OF jimama ~Kimi ni Okuru Uta~.” As spring brings changes, it’s perfect for friends who are feeling anxious.

Rather than forcing encouragement, it’s filled with a gentle presence that simply stays by your side—sing it at a farewell party or karaoke, and the whole room is sure to be wrapped in a warm atmosphere!

Sakura, Bloom!arashi81rank/position

ARASHI – Sakura Sake [Official Music Video]

When it comes to spring staples that instantly boost your mood with an energetic intro, this is the song! It’s Arashi’s single “Sakura Sake,” released in March 2005.

It was also used in a Jounan Prep School TV commercial featuring Sho Sakurai, and became widely known as an anthem for exam season.

The lyrics, filled with positive messages, and the driving band sound perfectly match graduation scenes where you take a bold first step forward.

Just listening to it brings back vivid memories of your earnest younger self and the days spent with friends, and you might find your eyes welling up before you know it.

It blows away anxiety and gives you a powerful push toward the future.

It’s the ultimate cheer song that stays by your side in those precious moments when you want to wipe away your tears and say goodbye with a smile.

Don’t give upZARD82rank/position

Don't Give Up – ZARD (Full)

This gem of a song, woven from a moving melody and a powerful message, was released to the world in January 1993 as one of ZARD’s signature works.

With a gentle, warm vocal delivery, it wraps words of encouragement for a loved one and conveys a deep affection that says, “Even if we’re far apart, my heart is by your side.” Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Shiratori Reiko de Gozaimasu!” it has continued to garner broad support, being used at various sporting events and on the 24-Hour Television charity program.

As a cheering anthem that encourages and emboldens those striving toward their dreams, it’s a staple at school events such as sports days and graduation ceremonies.

Izumi Sakai’s clear, translucent voice and the heartwarming melody offer solace to those carrying worries and give them the strength to look ahead.

Dream Deliverynaniwa danshi83rank/position

Naniwa Danshi “Yume Watashi” ~from Naniwa Danshi First Arena Tour 2021 #NaniwaDanshiShikaKatan~

Naniwa Danshi is a sparkling, Kansai-born idol group brimming with charm.

The song they perform here is a heartwarming mid-tempo number that was selected as the 2021 “ABC Summer High School Baseball Support Song” and the theme for “Netto Koshien.” It was also included on their single “Ubu Love,” released in November 2021, and their album “1st Love,” released in July 2022.

The lyrics portray dreams that can be realized precisely because you’re not alone and the preciousness of connecting feelings with your companions—making it perfectly suited to the milestone of graduation.

Sing it at karaoke with friends who are setting off on different paths, and the flood of memories will surely give you courage.

It’s a song that gently nudges you forward as you take a new step.

Run Through the MemoriesMy Hair is Bad84rank/position

My Hair is Bad – Dash Through the Memories

This song was written by the rock band My Hair is Bad, from Joetsu City in Niigata Prefecture, for the film Crayon Shin-chan: Our Dinosaur Diary, released in August 2024.

It carries a warm message that looks back on the days gone by and affirms that even painful experiences connect to who we are now.

As the closing track on their album ghosts, released in July 2024, it’s a perfect fit for parting with friends who shared irreplaceable moments together—like the one unforgettable summer Shin-chan and his friends spent.

Any anxiety about stepping onto a new path will surely be transformed into courage by vocalist Tomomi Shiiki’s powerful voice.

It’s a song we hope you’ll listen to as you and your friends, who may be separated after graduation, cheer on each other’s futures.