Japanese Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

On the day of departure…Kawashima Ai15rank/position

[Choral Version] On the Day of Departure ... Ai Kawashima

A signature song by singer-songwriter Ai Kawashima and a long-loved graduation tune, “Tabidachi no Hi ni…”.

Many of you may have sung this song at your graduation ceremony.

Depicting the time from first meeting your friends to graduation, it brings back countless irreplaceable moments as you sing—and it’s a real tearjerker.

It’s a graduation song that stays in your heart long after time has passed.

A classic, but a highly recommended track.

I WiSH’s “Ashita e no Tobira” was produced using this song as its original source.

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road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE16rank/position

EXILE / Road

An emotional ballad depicting encounters and farewells in special places.

It’s a song by EXILE, a group that captivates fans with a style fusing dance and vocals.

Released as a single in February 2007, it is also included on the album “EXILE EVOLUTION.” It was used as a theme song for NTV’s “Ongaku Senshi MUSIC FIGHTER,” and is also known for becoming the 1,000th number-one song in Oricon chart history.

Its lyrics, which make you realize how precious everyday life truly is, likely resonate deeply with students on the verge of graduation.

Having also become a staple choral piece, this classic is sure to move audiences to tears when set to a memory video stitched together with smiling photos of friends.

Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS17rank/position

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Thank You”

This is a mid-tempo ballad themed around gratitude, released as the final single by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, who disbanded to much regret in 2013.

It was used as the theme song for NTV’s “Akamara! Scoop Koshien” and as the official song for MBS’s 85th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

The music video, which drew major attention, features Sanma Akashiya playing a junior high school teacher approaching retirement.

Blending the group’s signature rap-like delivery with a catchy melody, the song naturally stirs feelings of appreciation for the people who have supported you—parents, friends, teachers, and more.

It peaked at No.

4 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and is also included on the best-of album “Funky Monkey Babys LAST BEST.” It’s a moving number that brings hearts together—perfect for conveying gratitude to someone special at a graduation ceremony, especially when arranged for and performed by a wind ensemble.

About meMrs. GREEN APPLE18rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – About Me

This grand rock ballad by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE is an ode to life that, set to a marching rhythm, portrays both its beauty and its cruelty.

Even as it confronts the reality that hard work doesn’t always pay off, its powerful message grips the heart, as if affirming every step you’ve taken so far.

Released as a single in January 2019, it was written as the support song for the 97th All Japan High School Soccer Championship and also drew attention as a Calorie Mate commercial track.

With lyrics that gently encourage not only the winners but also those who fell short, it’s a warmhearted song that graduating students who’ve felt the sting of club activities or entrance exams won’t be able to listen to without tears.

Highly recommended as a masterpiece that helps you recognize yourself and gives you the courage to hold your head high and take a new step forward!

The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 4619rank/position

Nogizaka46 'The Meaning of Goodbye'

This is the song you’ll want to listen to when you want to carry not only the sadness of parting but also gratitude for having met.

Released in November 2016 as Nogizaka46’s 16th single, it is also known as Nanami Hashimoto’s final single as center.

It became the group’s first million-certified release and was performed at the 67th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that year.

It’s a track especially suited for those facing graduation and feeling anxious about being separated from dear friends.

Its warm message sinks in, teaching us that “goodbye” isn’t merely an ending but a stepping stone to becoming stronger.

As a cherished anthem that gives you the courage to take a new step, why not send it to a friend who’s setting out on a new journey?

proofflumpool20rank/position

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

Let us introduce a classic essential for graduation season that fuses choral and band sound.

Released in September 2011, this single by flumpool was specially written as the set piece for the Junior High School Division of the 78th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

It was also broadcast on NHK’s Minna no Uta and included on the album “experience.” With lyrics that engrave the time you’ve lived into your heart and give you the courage to move toward the future, the song resonates deeply with many people.

Why not listen to it at a graduation ceremony as you bid farewell to friends and beloved teachers, or on a spring day as you take your first step forward?

I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu21rank/position

Spitz / I Should Be Able to Fly in the Sky

This piece, packed with a melody that evokes the pale days of youth and Masamune Kusano’s poetic worldview, beautifully captures a longing for freedom and the miracle of meeting that special “you.” Its lyrics gently accompany the anxiety and hope of climbing the steps toward adulthood.

Although released as a single in April 1994, it drew major attention as the theme song for the drama “Hakusen Nagashi,” which began airing in January 1996, and has been loved for many years.

Also included on the album “Sora no Tobikata,” this track is an ideal BGM for a nostalgic montage that looks back on the irreplaceable moments shared with friends or a loved one during the season of farewells.

Let this classic, which gives you the courage to spread your wings into the future with the proof of your time together in your heart, accompany your visuals.