Popular Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

together; along with; bothWANIMA29rank/position

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

WANIMA is a rock band whose exhilarating sound and catchy melodies energize everyone who listens.

This work portrays the powerful drive to keep moving forward with authenticity, even while carrying painful memories of the past and anxieties about an uncertain future.

Its passionate message—filled with deep gratitude for the friends they’ve met along the way and the importance of overcoming hardships to keep living—will surely resonate with anyone at a new beginning.

Released in August 2016, the song was used in a commercial for Nivea Kao’s 8×4.

During production, their hometown of Kumamoto was struck by an earthquake, and the added layers of prayers and encouragement for their community make the background all the more moving.

It’s an uplifting tune recommended for those who want to look back on days spent with dear friends and step forward with a smile onto a new path!

The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 4630rank/position

Nogizaka46 'The Meaning of Goodbye'

This is the song you’ll want to listen to when you want to carry not only the sadness of parting but also gratitude for having met.

Released in November 2016 as Nogizaka46’s 16th single, it is also known as Nanami Hashimoto’s final single as center.

It became the group’s first million-certified release and was performed at the 67th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that year.

It’s a track especially suited for those facing graduation and feeling anxious about being separated from dear friends.

Its warm message sinks in, teaching us that “goodbye” isn’t merely an ending but a stepping stone to becoming stronger.

As a cherished anthem that gives you the courage to take a new step, why not send it to a friend who’s setting out on a new journey?

Song of DepartureMr.Children31rank/position

Mr.Children “Tabidachi no Uta” MUSIC VIDEO

This is the 31st single by Mr.Children, a band that has continued to lead the Japanese rock scene, released in October 2007.

It was selected as the theme song for the film “Sky of Love” and also used in an NTT East Japan commercial.

The song made a major impact, topping the Oricon weekly chart and ranking eighth on the year-end chart.

This work is a medium-tempo ballad filled with a warm cheer for those standing at a crossroads.

Its message—that hearts remain connected even when apart—arrives through Kazutoshi Sakurai’s delicate vocals and the gentle soundscape.

It’s a number we especially want to send to those approaching the milestone of graduation and preparing to take their next step.

Performed with the tender tones of a wind ensemble, it will envelop the entire venue in warmth and create a moving moment overflowing with tears and smiles.

Letter ~To You, Fifteen~Anjura Aki32rank/position

Angela Aki “Letter ~Dear You, Fifteen~” Official Music Video (HD)

A signature ballad by Angela Aki that resonates like a dialogue with oneself.

Inspired by a letter she wrote at the age of 15, this moving song gently accompanies hearts weighed down by worries and anxieties.

Released in September 2008 as her eighth single, it is also included on the album “ANSWER.” The piece was composed as the set song for the junior high division of the 75th NHK National School Music Competition, and it’s also well known as the theme song for the film “Have a Song on Your Lips.” Its message linking past and future is sure to give courage to graduates taking their next steps.

It’s a perfect song for the milestone of graduation.

OrangeSPYAIR33rank/position

SPYAIR “Orange” Music Video (Theme Song for Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle: The Movie)

Through imagery that conjures a sunset, the lyrics convey a positive resolve toward a reunion.

Released as a single in February 2024, this song was chosen as the theme for the anime film Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle.

Its emotional band sound—evoking the time spent with teammates and the heat of unbreakable bonds—will give you chills.

It’s perfect for situations where you want to cheer on each other’s futures, so be sure to check it out.

Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai34rank/position

Dai Hirai / The Way Home in March (Lyric Video)

Dai Hirai is a popular singer-songwriter known for his organic style rooted in surf music.

Released digitally in February 2022, this work is a ballad characterized by an emotional sound woven by piano and strings.

It delicately portrays the complex feelings that mix the sorrow of parting with the resolve to face the future, felt on a familiar way home.

Many listeners will likely be moved by its message: even though you’re closer to your dream, tears overflow because you realize how precious the days spent with your friends were.

Also included on the best album LOVE＋PEACE, this song gently embraces the bittersweet emotions of graduation season.

Give it a listen as a track perfect for memory videos on TikTok or to encourage those taking a new step forward.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu35rank/position

Yuzu “Eikou no Kakehashi” Music Video

When it comes to iconic songs that affirm tears and offer hope for the future, isn’t it this cheer song sung by Yuzu? Released in July 2004, the track was chosen as the official theme song for NHK’s coverage of the Athens Olympics that same year.

It was later included on albums such as “1 ~ONE~,” and has been sung and cherished for many years.

The lyrics are compelling in the way they powerfully celebrate the journey of overcoming suffering and setbacks to leave one’s mark.

As a surprise for a teacher who has supported you, why not have everyone sing this piece together at the farewell ceremony to express deep gratitude?