Japanese Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

The happiest treasuresutopuri8rank/position

[MV] The Most Wonderful Treasure / Strawberry Prince

As a heartwarming song that adds color to graduation season, the voices of Strawberry Prince ring out.

It vividly paints the March scene of dancing cherry blossoms and gently sings of memories with friends and hopes for the future.

Released in March 2023, the song was given a surprise live debut during the group’s nationwide arena tour at Yokohama Arena.

Born from a collaboration with HoneyWorks, its refreshing melody will gently encourage not only those graduating, but anyone taking a new step forward.

If you are experiencing farewells with loved ones or new encounters, please give it a listen as a song that sends heartfelt support.

far; distant; by farGReeeeN9rank/position

GReeeeN – Haruka

I’d like to introduce a moving ballad where the loneliness of leaving home intertwines with a strong will to pursue one’s dreams.

This work by GReeeeN expresses gratitude to the parents who raised us, and every listen warms the heart by reminding us of family love.

Released in May 2009 as their 11th single, it’s also famous as the theme song for the blockbuster film “ROOKIES: Graduation.” By setting aside the rap parts to let the vocals take center stage, the song resonates deeply.

It’s perfect not only for students about to leave home, but also for adults who’ve long been out in society and want to recall their original resolve.

Highly recommended as background music for graduation season or for videos expressing thanks to someone special.

bookmarkkuriipuhaipe10rank/position

CreepHyp - “Bookmark” (MUSIC VIDEO)

Originally written and composed by CreepHyp’s Seikai Ozaki as a campaign song for FM802 and TSUTAYA in 2018, this track is included on the album “Nakitakunaru Hodo Ureshii Hibi ni.” Its lyrics juxtapose the image of falling cherry blossoms with a “bookmark” tucked into a half-read book, evoking lingering feelings for a relationship one isn’t ready to end—sentiments many graduates may relate to.

While the song portrays the sorrow of parting, the music itself is a bright, fast-paced rock tune.

That contrast gently pushes listeners forward into the future, even as they hold on to their loneliness.

It’s an emotional track that tenderly accompanies the wavering heart at the milestone of graduation.

Kitearashi11rank/position

ARASHI – Kite [Official Music Video]

A grand message song by Arashi that you’ll want to give to friends setting off on a new chapter.

Like a kite catching the wind and soaring high, it portrays the resolve to move forward despite uncertainty.

There’s a warmth in this song that gently watches over that figure and gives a soft push from behind.

The single “Kite,” released in 2020, was written and composed by Kenshi Yonezu as the “NHK 2020 Song.” It was also aired on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” making it beloved across generations.

Parting with friends is lonely, but the sentiment embedded in this work—“we’re connected no matter where we are”—will surely reach their hearts.

If everyone sings it together at a farewell party, it becomes the perfect cheer, powerfully supporting the future of the one setting out.

C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK12rank/position

ONE OK ROCK – C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h. [Official Music Video]

This is a stirring rock number by ONE OK ROCK that portrays the fiery bonds between friends charging toward their dreams.

While looking back on the youthful days they spent together, it vows that each will shine on the path they’ve chosen, powerfully pushing listeners forward.

Even if they grow apart, the memories in their hearts remain unfading treasures—an encouraging message that gives courage.

Included on the October 2011 album “Zankyo Reference,” this song is perfect to listen to while cheering on friends as they leap into a new world and salute each other’s efforts.

As an anthem that blows away anxiety and loneliness and helps you face forward, it’s definitely worth checking out!

Gift SongCHiCO with HoneyWorks13rank/position

Gifted Song / CHiCO with HoneyWorks

CHiCO with HoneyWorks’ “Okurauta,” sung with heartfelt gratitude to a beloved teacher, is the perfect song for a farewell ceremony.

The song eloquently expresses the complex emotions of graduating students, featuring a memorable, beautiful melody that conveys respect for teachers and hope for the future.

Words of thanks to those who supported one’s growth are sure to resonate with listeners.

“Okurauta” is a song I can recommend to many, as it warms the heart in moments of parting.

Whether as a surprise for a teacher or a class chorus, it’s a choice that’s sure to move people.

Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)Yonezu Kenshi14rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)

This is a track whose beautiful, fleeting sound and lyrics—portraying the aching feelings of two childhood companions who grow apart as they become adults—strike straight at the heart.

Included on singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu’s album BOOTLEG, released in October 2017, the song also drew major attention for featuring actor Masaki Suda as a guest vocalist.

It contrasts the past, when they laughed together without a care, with the present, as they each walk their own path.

Its message—suggesting a bond that remains deep inside no matter how much time passes—gently encourages men setting out for different places.

After graduation, when you feel anxious or lonely about a new life ahead, why not listen to it while reminiscing about an old friend?