Japanese Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

OrangeSPYAIR22rank/position

SPYAIR “Orange” Music Video (Theme Song for Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle: The Movie)

Through imagery that conjures a sunset, the lyrics convey a positive resolve toward a reunion.

Released as a single in February 2024, this song was chosen as the theme for the anime film Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle.

Its emotional band sound—evoking the time spent with teammates and the heat of unbreakable bonds—will give you chills.

It’s perfect for situations where you want to cheer on each other’s futures, so be sure to check it out.

I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu23rank/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.

Cherry Blossom Rainhalyosy24rank/position

Sakura Rain [Chorus] with Lyrics

Did you know that among Vocaloid songs, there are pieces that are actually sung as choral works at many schools’ graduation ceremonies? This song, “Sakura no Ame” (Cherry Blossom Rain), was uploaded to Nico Nico Douga by halyosy in 2008.

Since then, it has enjoyed immense popularity as a graduation song and has become a beloved standard.

With cherry blossoms as its theme, the lyrics—pledging to cherish past memories and to meet again in the future—are truly moving.

Some people might think, “A Vocaloid song at a graduation ceremony choir?” but its melody has a very beautiful atmosphere, making it a perfect choice to perform as a choral piece.

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Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai25rank/position

Dai Hirai / The Way Home in March (Lyric Video)

Dai Hirai is a popular singer-songwriter known for his organic style rooted in surf music.

Released digitally in February 2022, this work is a ballad characterized by an emotional sound woven by piano and strings.

It delicately portrays the complex feelings that mix the sorrow of parting with the resolve to face the future, felt on a familiar way home.

Many listeners will likely be moved by its message: even though you’re closer to your dream, tears overflow because you realize how precious the days spent with your friends were.

Also included on the best album LOVE＋PEACE, this song gently embraces the bittersweet emotions of graduation season.

Give it a listen as a track perfect for memory videos on TikTok or to encourage those taking a new step forward.

On the Day of Departure26rank/position

On the Day of Departure

“Tabidachi no Hi ni,” born from the collaboration between the principal and the music teacher of Chichibu Municipal Kagemori Junior High School.

Hiromi Sakamoto’s delicate melody and Noboru Kojima’s deeply moving lyrics create a harmony that stirs the heart.

As a celebrated song that has brought tears to many graduation ceremonies, it will surely resonate with children as well.

Filled with a wonderful message as a cheer for the future, it is perfect for elementary school students about to graduate.

The sight of them singing their hearts out toward the vast sky will become an unforgettable memory.

Youth PhotographLittle Glee Monster27rank/position

[Little Glee Monster] Youth Photograph [Litoguri]

Little Glee Monster is a vocal group known for powerful singing and beautiful harmonies.

Centered on the theme of graduation, this song rides a lively Motown beat to brightly sing about the heartbreak of parting and the bonds between friends.

Its rich choral work is a number that gives a strong push to those looking ahead.

Released in March 2015 as one track of a double A-side single, its other title song, “Girls be Free!,” was chosen as the theme for a fashion event.

A different version is also included on the album “UNLOCK!,” released in March 2024.

It’s a perfect pop tune for those who want to greet farewells with a smile.

The uptempo melody works well as BGM for graduation videos that reflect on precious memories.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu28rank/position

Yuzu “Eikou no Kakehashi” Music Video

When it comes to iconic songs that affirm tears and offer hope for the future, isn’t it this cheer song sung by Yuzu? Released in July 2004, the track was chosen as the official theme song for NHK’s coverage of the Athens Olympics that same year.

It was later included on albums such as “1 ~ONE~,” and has been sung and cherished for many years.

The lyrics are compelling in the way they powerfully celebrate the journey of overcoming suffering and setbacks to leave one’s mark.

As a surprise for a teacher who has supported you, why not have everyone sing this piece together at the farewell ceremony to express deep gratitude?