Japanese Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

Cherry Blossom Rainhalyosy22rank/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.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai23rank/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.

OrangeSPYAIR24rank/position

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

This work is an emotional number that powerfully sings not of the loneliness of parting, but of the promise of “Let’s meet again.” It was written as the theme song for the film Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle, released in February 2024.

Its imagery—evoking a practice field at dusk and the walk home—is superb, and just listening is sure to set your heart ablaze.

Why not listen to it beneath the sunset sky, recalling the irreplaceable days you spent with your teammates?

On the Day of Departure25rank/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 Monster26rank/position

[Little Glee Monster] Youth Photograph [Litoguri]

A pop tune packed with the sparkle of student life that you often hear on TikTok during graduation season.

While it conveys the sadness of parting, its brisk Motown beat and bright vocals turn a graduation ceremony that tends to get emotional into one filled with smiles.

Included on Little Glee Monster’s second single, released in March 2015, this song was issued as a double A-side.

For the music video shoot, Nakamura Junior and Senior High School in Tokyo provided full cooperation, and it drew attention for incorporating scenes from actual students’ daily lives.

The lyrics, which feel like snapshots of memories in classrooms and behind the school building, are perfect for reaffirming bonds with friends.

It’s recommended as background music for memory videos or during commemorative photo sessions for those who want to capture the perfect shot.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu27rank/position

Yuzu “Eikou no Kakehashi” Music Video

Released in 2004, Yuzu’s 21st single was selected as the official theme song for NHK’s Athens Olympics coverage and quickly became a nationwide anthem of support.

It peaked at No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart and sold over 300,000 copies in total.

Along with the famous commentary from the men’s team gymnastics winning gold for the first time in 28 years, it remains etched in many people’s memories.

The lyrics affirm the tears shed out of the public eye and the uneven path taken, conveying the message that the days we’ve built up have made us who we are today.

Its universal appeal resonates not only with athletes but also with people facing exams, job hunts, and many other life moments.

The song has also become a staple in choral and wind ensemble repertoires and is often performed at graduation ceremonies and club retirement events.

As you look back on your school days, why not listen once more to this classic that accompanies new beginnings in spring?

My friend — now and forever…Ketsumeishi28rank/position

Ketsumeishi “My Friend ~ From Here On Forever…”

A heartwarming song themed around friendship and bonds has arrived from Ketsumeishi.

This work sings about the precious days spent with friends and the presence of companions who stand by you in tough times.

Written as the theme song for the film “Crayon Shin-chan: Fast Asleep! The Great Assault on the Dreaming World,” it was released in April 2016.

The music video features the comedy trio Dachou Club, expressing their long-standing friendship.

The song is also included on the album “KETSUNOPOLIS 10.” It’s a perfect track for graduations, farewells with friends, or when you want to express gratitude to someone special.

Why not hum along while reflecting on the value of friendship?