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Ikimono-gakari’s Most Moving Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]
There are many songs that move you deeply just by carefully reading the lyrics.Ikimono-gakari’s songs, too, are filled with messages that gently seep into your heart and often bring you to tears.This time, we’re presenting a ranking of their most moving songs.When you’re tired, be sure to check them out and let them soothe you.
Ikimono-gakari’s Moving Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026] (1–10)
Thank youikimonogakari1rank/position
Feelings of gratitude that are too embarrassing to express on ordinary days might be easier to convey honestly at graduation.
This song, which portrays the warmth of holding someone’s hand, the happiness of everyday life, and the resolve to walk toward the future, is truly a classic befitting a new beginning.
Ikimono-gakari’s single “Arigatou,” released in May 2010, was widely loved as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyōbō.
Thanks to its universal appeal, it was also selected as the entrance march for the 2011 National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
The words woven by Yoshiki Mizuno and the vocals of Kiyoe Yoshioka gently resonate with listeners’ hearts.
Why not listen to this perfect piece for expressing gratitude to parents and teachers at graduation and find the courage to take your next step?
YELLikimonogakari2rank/position
An emotionally moving number by Ikimono-gakari, cherished as a staple graduation song.
Its lyrics don’t treat parting as something merely sad, but as a new beginning toward each person’s dreams—words that are sure to bring tears to your eyes.
Even while burdened by anxiety and inner conflict about the future—like having wings but being unable to fly—the image of confronting one’s own weakness and moving forward into tomorrow stirs everyone’s heart.
Released in September 2009 as a double A-side single alongside the bright, poppy “Joyful,” the song was also selected as a required piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.
Though gentle in tone, this powerful track resonates deeply, encouraging those taking a new step forward with the bonds of their friends in their hearts.
I feel like going home.ikimonogakari3rank/position
There are times when you feel a pang of longing as you think of your hometown, aren’t there? Ikimonogakari’s song “Kairitaku Nattayo” gently embraces those feelings.
Released in 2008, it was created as the theme song for the film “Sand Clock.” Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, transparent vocals and the heartfelt lyrics penned by Yoshiki Mizuno leave a lasting impression.
If you’re in a season of setting out, or living apart from family and friends, it will surely resonate with you.
The wind is blowing.ikimonogakari4rank/position
A 2012 track that served as the broadcast theme song for the London Olympics and Paralympics, with lyrics and music by Yoshiki Mizuno.
At the time of its release—and even as of 2021—it remains the longest song in their catalog, delivering an epic sense of scale.
Its message, which resonates especially deeply when you feel discouraged or are going through hard times, conveys an earnest determination to face reality.
It gives you the strength to affirm yourself, as if to say that because there is a past, there can be a future.
Seiji Kameda’s dramatic arrangement is superb, and together with Kiyoe’s clear, soaring vocals, it stirs even greater emotion.
An immortal masterpiece that brings an unstoppable sense of uplift, as if a tailwind were at your back—you’ll likely feel lighter and more refreshed once it’s over.
SAKURAikimonogakari5rank/position
A heartwarming song that gently portrays the season when cherry blossoms dance in the air.
Its refreshing, springlike melody is beautifully layered with Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, transparent vocals from Ikimonogakari, resonating deeply with the listener.
While carefully depicting the scenes of a season filled with meetings and farewells, it serves as an encouraging anthem that gives you the courage to take the next step.
Released in March 2006 as their major-label debut, it was also used in an NTT East Japan commercial.
It has often been broadcast to coincide with the school graduation season and continues to be cherished as a song of memories.
It’s recommended for those who, in the spring season of partings, want to face forward and start walking, or are about to take a new step.
STARikimonogakari6rank/position
If you’re looking to be soothed by gentle lyrics, STAR is also recommended.
This is Ikimonogakari’s first single as a duo.
Written as the theme song for the film Father of the Galactic Railroad, it’s a ballad that sings of a father’s unconditional love for his son and his wish for his happiness, all from the father’s perspective.
The lyrics are profound, prompting you to reflect on what love truly is.
Be sure to listen carefully so you don’t miss a single word.
Also, the way the sound swells toward the latter half creates a sense of openness—another highlight worth listening for.
Joyfulikimonogakari7rank/position
When it comes to hype songs, Joyful is such a hit that its name always comes up.
Released in 2009 as Ikimono-gakari’s 15th single, the track also made waves as the Glico Pocky song.
It’s the perfect tune for those moments overflowing with joy, guaranteed to get your energy up for no reason at all.
The lyrics are filled with quirky words that make you want to start humming along.
smileikimonogakari8rank/position
This is a song by Ikimonogakari that sings a gentle wish for a dear friend to always keep smiling.
The grand, sweeping sound featuring strings conveys a moving atmosphere.
A notable feature is that the lyrics are composed entirely of different words with no repetition, which feels like an expression of overflowing thoughts and messages the singer wants to share with their friend.
While looking back on the memories they’ve built together, the song offers words of encouragement to live strongly, supporting each other along the way.
Promise in Madder Redikimonogakari9rank/position
A gentle ballad whose warm melody seems to melt into the crimson autumn sky.
While the theme is marriage, songwriter/composer Yoshiki Mizuno has said he chose to include the word “farewell” in the lyrics—not only to bless a new beginning, but to look ahead to the eventual parting of death that may come someday.
With the encounter of an irreplaceable person held close to the heart, the deep love of walking through life together is richly expressed through Kiyoe Yoshioka’s crystal-clear vocals.
Released in October 2007 as Ikimono-gakari’s seventh single, the song likely remains in many people’s memories as the CM song for au’s “LISMO!”.
It is also included on the album “Life Album,” a gem of a track you’ll want to listen to on a long autumn night while reminiscing about precious memories with someone dear.
Come dramatically over hereikimonogakari10rank/position
A new song that colors the latest drama has been released.
Written by Ikimono-gakari for the Sunday drama “Little Women — The Sisters in Love and I Who Cannot Love,” the track features an upbeat, light melody.
It carries a message about facing life’s hardships and how to depict one’s own story, offering courage to listeners.
Premiered during the drama’s first broadcast on October 6, 2024, the song drew anticipation and strong reactions from fans.
Kiyoe Yoshioka’s vocals and Yoshiki Mizuno’s composition blend beautifully, resulting in a fresh, positive piece that perfectly matches the drama’s world.
It’s a recommended track for those pursuing their true selves or wishing to feel the hidden beauty in everyday life.