Ikimono-gakari’s Most Moving Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]

Thank youikimonogakari1rank/position

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

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

Ikimono-gakari “YELL” Music Video

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

Ikimono-gakari - I Want to Go Home

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

Ikimonogakari 'The Wind Is Blowing' Music Video

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.

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KEI

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SAKURAikimonogakari5rank/position

SAKURA – Ikimonogakari (Full)

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.

Joyfulikimonogakari6rank/position

Ikimono-gakari Joyful 2015

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.

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utatane

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smileikimonogakari7rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “Egao” Music Video

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.

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kappamaki

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