Popular Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

GraduationKobukuro57rank/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.

A place where smiles awaitOfisharu Higedan Dism58rank/position

TSK 45th Anniversary Song – Official HIGE DANDism – The Place Where Smiles Await

Released in 2016, this song was specially written to commemorate the 45th anniversary of their local station, San-in Chuo Television.

Although it wasn’t originally created as a graduation song, its lyrics fit graduation scenes perfectly.

The message is that if you hold dear the memories of the important people in your life—friends you spent so much time with, parents, teachers, and others who supported you—you can do your best even in a new environment.

Graduates setting off on their own paths after graduation may feel anxious about taking that first step, but by listening to this song and realizing once again that “there are so many people cheering me on,” we hope you’ll gain confidence and move forward!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Full-Power BoySukima Suichi59rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Zenryoku Shonen” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / Zenryoku Shonen Music Video

With its buoyant piano intro and exhilarating, fast-paced sound, this signature Skima Switch number has continued to spur many people onward.

Released in April 2005 as their fifth single, it’s also included on their second album, “Kūsō Clip.” Long beloved, it was featured as an insert song in the film “Rough” and, in 2020, chosen as the Japanese end theme for the Disney/Pixar film “Onward.” Its message of breaking through the status quo and opening up a new world makes it perfect as a cheer for those heading into a new stage—like a transfer or a job change.

If you play it to wrap up a farewell party with smiles, or to send off friends with energy, it’s sure to fill the entire venue with a positive vibe.

Words of FarewellKaientai60rank/position

Okuru Kotoba

A classic of the graduation season, this is a famous song by Kaientai that just about everyone in Japan has hummed at least once.

It carries not only the sadness of parting, but also a profound message that knowing sorrow can make us kinder—one that warms the heart every time you listen.

Released as a single in November 1979, it was used as the theme song for the first season of the drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3B,” starring Tetsuya Takeda, and it became a runaway hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

It was also included on the album “Wajin-den,” and has been loved for many years.

Though it’s actually a song about heartbreak, its bittersweet yet gentle words offer courage to anyone setting out on a new journey.

It’s truly a Japanese standard, a song passed down across generations.

budKobukuro61rank/position

Kobukuro – Tsubomi

A ballad that begins with a delicate piano intro and features powerful, heartfelt vocals.

Released in March 2007, this song expresses gratitude and love for a mother, as well as the sorrow of parting, and stands as one of Kobukuro’s signature works, leaving a deep impression on listeners.

Written specifically as the theme song for a Fuji TV drama, it won the 49th Japan Record Award.

In March 2008, it was also selected as the entrance march for the opening ceremony of the 80th Memorial National High School Baseball Tournament.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear at graduations and life’s milestones.

StaRtMrs. GREEN APPLE62rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – StaRt

An uplifting song from the student-friendly rock band Mrs.

GREEN APPLE.

This track, included on their album “Variety,” released in July 2015, gives a push to those embarking on a new chapter.

Its pop melody and powerful beat stir listeners’ hearts, offering the courage to face forward.

It was also featured in a Kao commercial, resonating with many people.

We’d love for everyone heading toward new challenges to listen to this song.

It will inspire the strength to overcome difficulties and the confidence to believe in yourself.

A Bouquet for YouUtada Hikaru63rank/position

Hikaru Utada – A Bouquet for You

This is a ballad imbued with a warm message that gently accompanies the season of partings.

It paints a bittersweet yet beautiful scene of entrusting gratitude to a loved one and an inexpressible love to a “bouquet,” and offering it as a gift.

Released digitally in April 2016 as Hikaru Utada’s comeback work, it became familiar as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Totto-chan.

It resonated with those who had long awaited her return, earning high acclaim, including the Excellence Award at the 58th Japan Record Awards that year.

It’s perfect for moments like graduation ceremonies when you want to express thanks to teachers and friends.

This piece, which gently nudges you forward on a new path, will add color to a special day when you bid farewell with smiles through tears.