Popular Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

YELLikimonogakari8rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “YELL” Music Video

YELL portrays farewell words not as something sad, but as a promise to soar into the future.

Released in September 2009, it is a single by Ikimonogakari, the musical group known for Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, expansive vocals.

Loved as the set piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition’s junior high division, the song speaks to the importance of starting to walk on your own feet while facing loneliness and anxiety.

Holding the days spent together in your heart, the lyrics convey the resolve to set off on separate paths, gently accompanying the tears and smiles of graduation season.

This piece adds a moving touch to school-life memory videos—woven from countless photos with friends from club activities, school trips, and more—so be sure to give it a listen.

Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS9rank/position

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Thank You”

This is a mid-tempo ballad themed around gratitude, released as the final single by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, who disbanded to much regret in 2013.

It was used as the theme song for NTV’s “Akamara! Scoop Koshien” and as the official song for MBS’s 85th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

The music video, which drew major attention, features Sanma Akashiya playing a junior high school teacher approaching retirement.

Blending the group’s signature rap-like delivery with a catchy melody, the song naturally stirs feelings of appreciation for the people who have supported you—parents, friends, teachers, and more.

It peaked at No.

4 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and is also included on the best-of album “Funky Monkey Babys LAST BEST.” It’s a moving number that brings hearts together—perfect for conveying gratitude to someone special at a graduation ceremony, especially when arranged for and performed by a wind ensemble.

far; distant; by farGReeeeN10rank/position

GReeeeN – Haruka

Haruka is a song filled with determination and gratitude about leaving home and setting out toward one’s dreams.

Released in May 2009 as the 11th single, it’s a renowned ballad by GReeeeN and was also known as a lead track from their classic album Shio, Kosho.

It was chosen as the theme song for the blockbuster film ROOKIES: Graduation, and many listeners may find that hearing it brings back the emotions of that time.

With their rap set aside, the straightforward vocals convey a message that’s impossible to hear without tears.

It’s a moving song, perfect for farewells and new beginnings, to offer with heartfelt thanks.

CHARMWANIMA11rank/position

WANIMA「CHARM」（OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

When you dive into a new environment, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety.

That’s exactly when I want you to listen to this song by WANIMA, a rock band from Kumamoto.

The title carries the meaning of a “good-luck charm,” and it powerfully pushes the backs of those about to take on a new challenge.

It leads off their single “Gotta Go!!,” released in May 2017, and was also featured in Kikkoman’s corporate film and Morinaga’s “Juken ni in Jelly” commercial.

Its exhilarating sound and lyrics that look forward while cherishing farewells really strike a chord.

This track feels like it can even turn your anxieties into energy.

Listen to it on your way to school, and you’ll find the courage to take that first new step! With the ultimate good-luck-charm song by your side, here’s to a wonderful start!

On the Day of DepartureKawashima Ai12rank/position

On the Day of Departure - Piano - Ai Kawashima (Graduation Song)

This is a luscious piano ballad by Ai Kawashima, known for her translucent singing voice.

Released in February 2006, the song delicately depicts the feelings of those facing graduation, with memories of classrooms where cherry blossoms flutter and days spent in the schoolyard.

Accompanied by a striking piano melody, it gently sings of gratitude for days gone by and hope for the future.

The story unfolds with the passage of time, beautifully expressing universal nuances of the heart—such as the sorrow of parting and the anticipation of meeting again.

Frequently sung at school graduation ceremonies, this work warmly supports those taking a new step forward and is widely cherished as a song that stands beside you at life’s milestones.

It’s a perfect track for anyone wishing to greet a new beginning with a fresh spirit or to look back on precious memories.

About meMrs. GREEN APPLE13rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – About Me

This is a rock ballad that affirms that even everyday worries and setbacks are valuable experiences that shape who you are.

Created by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, the song was released in January 2019 as their eighth single, and was chosen as the support song for the 97th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

In January 2023, an orchestral version was featured in a Calorie Mate commercial, and the song remains enduringly popular.

Produced by vocalist Motoki Omori with the desire to “affirm life as a whole,” this track is perfect for expressing gratitude to a teacher who has supported you.

The happiest treasuresutopuri14rank/position

[MV] The Most Wonderful Treasure / Strawberry Prince

As a heartwarming song that adds color to graduation season, the voices of Strawberry Prince ring out.

It vividly paints the March scene of dancing cherry blossoms and gently sings of memories with friends and hopes for the future.

Released in March 2023, the song was given a surprise live debut during the group’s nationwide arena tour at Yokohama Arena.

Born from a collaboration with HoneyWorks, its refreshing melody will gently encourage not only those graduating, but anyone taking a new step forward.

If you are experiencing farewells with loved ones or new encounters, please give it a listen as a song that sends heartfelt support.