Popular Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

Song of DepartureMr.Children29rank/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.

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?

Letter ~To You, Fifteen~Anjura Aki31rank/position

Angela Aki “Letter: To You, Fifteen” 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.

DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE32rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE "Darling" Official Music Video

A perfect Mrs.

GREEN APPLE track to hear during graduation season, when anxiety and excitement mix.

The lyrics question your true self and gently urge you to love yourself—including your weaknesses—giving you the courage to take a new step forward.

Written as the theme song for NHK General’s “Mrs.

GREEN APPLE 18 Festival” in January 2025, the song is also included on their best-of album “10,” released in July of the same year.

On the program, a chorus performance with 1,000 18-year-olds was showcased, and its sheer energy became a hot topic.

When you’re straining to meet others’ expectations, listening to this will remind you it’s okay to be just the way you are.

It’s also perfect for belting out at karaoke with friends as you celebrate each other’s new beginnings!

Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai33rank/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 Gloryyuzu34rank/position

Yuzu “Eikou no Kakehashi” Music Video

A grand ballad that makes you believe the days of effort you’ve built up will surely lead to the future.

Released in July 2004 as a single by Yuzu, it moved people all across Japan as NHK’s theme song for its Athens Olympics coverage.

Many may remember it alongside the iconic moment when the men’s gymnastics team won gold for the first time in 28 years.

Its lyrics affirm the “now” you’ve finally reached after overcoming countless setbacks and frustrations, stirring listeners’ hearts.

It’s a powerful pep song that gives a strong push to those facing major turning points in life—friends leaping into new environments due to transfers or retirement, students retiring from their clubs, and more—making it a perfect choice to play at the climax of a farewell party.

Cherry Blossom Rainhalyosy35rank/position

With lyrics: Hatsune Miku - Sakura no Ame - PV

Sakura no Ame is a song released on Niconico in February 2008 by halyosy, who used Hatsune Miku for the vocals.

It generated a huge response, was adapted into a novel in 2012 and a film in 2016, and has continued to spread as a beloved classic, now performed in choruses and ensembles by high school students across Japan.

The small, everyday moments of school life become irreplaceable memories that will color the future ahead… It’s a worldview that seems to gently give us courage.

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