Japanese Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

I’m glad I met you.Inoue Sonoko91rank/position

Sonoko Inoue – “I’m Glad I Met You” (short ver.)

A refreshing band sound that evokes the coming of spring makes this track especially memorable.

Singer-songwriter Sonoko Inoue created it as she was approaching her own high school graduation, and it was included on her album “Hello,” released in March 2016.

It was also used as the theme song for the NOTTV drama “Sakura Saku.” The lyrics depict everyday scenes shared with friends and the bonds that continue even when you’re apart.

It’s perfect for those moments when you want to say “thank you” to your cherished friends—words that can feel a bit embarrassing to express in everyday life.

Precious thingsYamazaki Tomoko92rank/position

Precious Things (Two-Part Unison)

Tomoko Yamazaki’s choral piece has become a graduation staple that warms the hearts of many.

This moving work evokes nights spent counting the stars and days when the wind was blowing.

Published by Kyoiku Geijutsu Sha in 2006, it is often sung at junior high school graduations and choral competitions.

Set to a gentle melody, the song expresses gratitude for friendship and for everyday memories.

Its lyrics, which seem to offer words of encouragement when you feel like giving up, truly resonate.

Filled with thanks to a “you” far away, it conveys the importance of those who taught us we are not alone.

It’s also perfect for elementary school graduations, and listening to it at the start of a new journey is sure to warm your heart.

LullabyRADWIMPS93rank/position

Lullaby - RADWIMPS

A song by the rock band RADWIMPS, whose name comes from a coined phrase combining opposing words like “cool coward” and “splendid wimp.” It closes out their second album, RADWIMPS 2: Hatten Tojo (Under Construction), and the catchy phrases sprinkled throughout its punkish arrangement are so quintessentially RADWIMPS.

Its message—that some things don’t change even after graduation and going separate ways—is exactly what people who feel sad about graduating most want to hear.

While the original is a full band sound, it’s a song whose melody stands out even more when performed solo with just vocals and guitar, so please play it with all your heart.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Sakuraayaka94rank/position

Ayaka / “Sakura” (from the LIVE DVD & Blu-ray “Acoustic Live Tour 2017–2018 ~3-STAR RAW~”)

A heartwarming ballad by Ayaka that uses cherry blossoms as a motif to portray the bittersweetness of graduation and parting.

From the image of reaching out to the fluttering sakura petals, you can feel the lingering attachment and affection for times gone by.

The lyrics, which depict someone looking back on the past, may reflect Ayaka’s own experiences.

Released as a digital single in February 2018, this song resonated with many as a track suited to the graduation season.

It’s a piece I’d especially recommend to those embarking on a new chapter or those who have experienced a farewell with someone dear.

Graduationsaitou yuki95rank/position

Yuki Saito “Graduation” MV

When it comes to Yuki Saito’s debut single, surely this classic comes to mind.

With Takashi Matsumoto and Kyohei Tsutsumi teaming up, it beautifully portrays the poignant scenes of graduation.

The imagery of the uniform buttons, the gap between the tears others expect and one’s own feelings—these subtle shades of youth resonate through her crystal-clear voice.

Released in February 1985, the song also drew attention as the CM track for Myojo Foods’ “Ramen Called Youth.” It was included on the acclaimed album AXIA and later self-covered on the 2021 album Suikyo-kyoku (Water Capriccio).

The lyrics convey a realism that isn’t just sweet; there’s a slightly cool, detached perspective that set it apart from typical idol songs of the time.

It’s a track for anyone who wants to savor the unique atmosphere of graduation season or sink into bittersweet memories.