Popular Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

Bye, my friendbokula.50rank/position

bokula. – By My Friend - [Official Music Video]

A rock band from Hiroshima, bokula.

delivers a track packed with the sparkle and bittersweetness of youth.

The lyrics, which portray everyday moments with friends and the preciousness of irreplaceable time, will give a powerful push to a young man setting off on a new path.

Included on their second mini-album, “Seikatsu ni, Yorisoi.” released in May 2022, the song has garnered wide support, surpassing 1 million views on YouTube.

It’s also known for winning the China Block Award at the 15th CD Shop Awards, cementing its strong reputation.

With a driving, uplifting sound that blows away the sadness of parting, it’s perfect for karaoke, arms around your friends as you sing along.

Believe that you’ll meet again with a smile someday, and send it as a cheer to a dear friend.

Thank you · GoodbyeSakushi: Ide Takao / Sakkyoku: Fukuda Wakako51rank/position

Choral Piece 'Thank You, Goodbye'

This beloved classic has long been an essential song for graduation season.

It warmly expresses gratitude to friends, classrooms, and teachers, skillfully weaving together memories of student life with hopes for a new beginning.

First broadcast in February 1985 on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” it has continued to resonate with many hearts ever since.

The lyrics and melody crafted by Takao Ide and Wakako Fukuda beautifully capture the complex emotions of those facing graduation.

Recommended as a heartwarming anthem that supports everyone reaching the end of their student days.

MiracleGReeeeN52rank/position

GReeeeN – Kiseki

This song, which expresses the days we walked together as “tracks” (kiseki) and the fact that we met as a “miracle” (kiseki), is filled with straightforward love and gratitude.

It’s GReeeeN’s smash-hit single released in May 2008.

Chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama ROOKIES, it added color to the show’s most moving scenes.

The astonishing fact that it was recognized by Guinness World Records for the number of full ringtone downloads is further proof of how deeply it has resonated with so many people.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to share hope for the future while bidding farewell to friends—like club retirements, graduations, or workplace send-off parties.

If everyone in the venue sings it together with gratitude for those you cherish, your bonds will grow even stronger.

Thank youSUPER BEAVER53rank/position

SUPER BEAVER “Arigatou” MV (Band ver.)

SUPER BEAVER is a rock band that keeps moving the hearts of many listeners with a straightforward rock sound that goes straight to the core of the words.

Featured on the album “361°,” this song is more than a simple message of gratitude—it’s a powerful rock number that affirms encounters, farewells, and the very feeling of being alive.

Released in February 2014, it isn’t tied to any TV show or film, yet it’s known as a classic that spread by word of mouth along with the heat of live house performances.

There’s hardly a more fitting song for expressing your feelings to friends at a farewell gathering.

If you let the band’s unvarnished intensity carry the words of thanks that are usually too embarrassing to say, the whole venue is sure to be wrapped in warm emotion.

GraduationKobukuro54rank/position

Kobukuro “Graduation”

It’s an emotional ballad that evokes scenes from our school days—like the view from the classroom window and the blackboard.

The lyrics carry not only the sadness of parting but also hope for the future that’s about to begin, gently encouraging those who are stepping onto a new path.

Created by Kobukuro, known for their beautiful harmonies, the song was released in March 2020 as their 31st single.

They deliberately chose not to attach any tie-ins, producing it with the pure wish that it would be sung at ceremonies.

It was later included on the album “Star Made” and has since become a springtime staple.

Listen to it while reflecting on days spent with friends, and you’re sure to be filled with gratitude.

It’s a warm, uplifting anthem that gives courage at life’s turning points.

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri55rank/position

Sakura Clear Skies

Singer-songwriter Yuuri, who enjoys overwhelming support among young people for his powerful vocals and relatable lyrics.

Released digitally in February 2021, this moving track was reportedly inspired by an email from a fan.

It was later included on his first album, Ichi, which features many hit songs.

While lamenting farewells to familiar scenery and loved ones, the lyrics—filled with gratitude—encourage men embarking on a new chapter to move forward with strength.

The song also drew attention when its production process was shared in a video, capturing the hearts of many listeners.

Why not listen to it during graduation and farewell seasons, reflecting on your gratitude to parents and friends who’ve supported you? It’ll surely give you the courage to take the next step!

JourneyFuji Kaze56rank/position

Fujii Kaze – Tabiji (Official Video)

Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze, who draws attention for his genre-blending musicality.

Released digitally in March 2021, this piece was written as the theme song for the TV drama “Nijiiro Karte.” The story behind its creation—crafted to align with the drama’s worldview after interactions on set—is wonderful, too.

The nostalgic electric piano tones and his soulful vocals warmly embrace the listener.

Comparing life to a long journey, the lyrics affirm that even past mistakes and farewells have meaning, making it a perfect fit for occasions that mark new beginnings, such as farewell gatherings.