Japanese Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

cherry blossomKobukuro29rank/position

Kobukuro “Sakura”

Have you ever had the experience of memories resurfacing with the arrival of spring? Kobukuro’s 12th single, released in 2005, is etched in the hearts of many as a true classic that colors the season of farewells.

Originally a song they had been performing since their indie days, it was re-recorded for their major-label career.

Its warm, acoustic guitar-centered sound and the duo’s beautiful harmonies resonate deeply.

Chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Ns’ Aoi,” it won the Gold Prize at the 47th Japan Record Awards.

The track was included on the album “NAMELESS WORLD” and has been repeatedly selected for numerous best-of compilations.

With lyrics that set the ache of meetings and partings—and unspoken words—to a gentle melody, it resonates with romance, friendship, and the end of school days alike.

Sing it with friends at karaoke, and those memories from back then are sure to come vividly back to life.

To the futureKiroro30rank/position

Kiroro “To the Future” Official Music Video

This song is a staple among graduation tunes.

It’s a track by Kiroro, a female duo from Okinawa, released as their second single in June 1998.

Originally, the songwriter composed it in middle school to express gratitude to her mother, but its warm lyrics also resonate with the feelings we have for those who supported us at graduation.

Its simple, heartfelt melody has been featured as an insert song in the anime “Tsuki ga Kirei” and in commercials.

Singing of hope for the new paths ahead, this moving piece gives courage in times of parting and new beginnings.

It’s sure to be a song that gently nudges someone forward.

DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE31rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE "Darling" Official Music Video

A perfect Mrs.

GREEN APPLE track to hear during graduation season, when anxiety and excitement mix.

The lyrics question your true self and gently urge you to love yourself—including your weaknesses—giving you the courage to take a new step forward.

Written as the theme song for NHK General’s “Mrs.

GREEN APPLE 18 Festival” in January 2025, the song is also included on their best-of album “10,” released in July of the same year.

On the program, a chorus performance with 1,000 18-year-olds was showcased, and its sheer energy became a hot topic.

When you’re straining to meet others’ expectations, listening to this will remind you it’s okay to be just the way you are.

It’s also perfect for belting out at karaoke with friends as you celebrate each other’s new beginnings!

Us Again (Brass Band ver.)SG32rank/position

We Again (Wind Ensemble ver.) – SG (Official Behind-the-Scenes Music Video)

This work by SG has gained support as an encouraging song that resonates deeply during graduations and farewells.

Its gentle melody, which accompanies young people as they overcome partings and take new steps forward, and its lyrics filled with hope for reunion are especially appealing.

Released in April 2021, it has become a popular track with a cumulative 150 million streams.

Starting in November 2024, it has also been featured in Calorie Mate’s exam-season support commercial, and a concert band version by the Hanazono Tokuei High School Wind Ensemble has been making waves.

It’s a heartwarming song for farewells, graduation ceremonies, and moments when you long to see someone special again.

It’s a recommended track for times when you want to cherish your memories while looking ahead and doing your best.

together; along with; bothWANIMA33rank/position

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

This song by WANIMA, a three-piece band from Kumamoto, delivers a rush of pop-rock energy and a moving, forward-looking message.

Its passionate lyrics and exhilarating melody resonate with people facing painful pasts or uncertain futures, giving them the courage to live.

Released in August 2016 on the single “JUICE UP!!,” it was featured in a NIVEA Kao 8×4 commercial.

When you’re feeling down or need power to move ahead, this strong, encouraging anthem is sure to give you a push.

Thank you · GoodbyeSakushi: Ide Takao / Sakkyoku: Fukuda Wakako34rank/position

Choral Piece 'Thank You, Goodbye'

This beloved classic has long been an essential song for graduation season.

It warmly expresses gratitude to friends, classrooms, and teachers, skillfully weaving together memories of student life with hopes for a new beginning.

First broadcast in February 1985 on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” it has continued to resonate with many hearts ever since.

The lyrics and melody crafted by Takao Ide and Wakako Fukuda beautifully capture the complex emotions of those facing graduation.

Recommended as a heartwarming anthem that supports everyone reaching the end of their student days.

On the Day of DepartureSakushi: Kojima Noboru / Sakkyoku: Sakamoto Hiromi35rank/position

A Classic Song Sung at Preschools: “On the Day of Departure” [Graduation Song / Preschool Graduation Song / Music Activities in Preschool]

This is a classic song for expressing gratitude at graduation ceremonies and is sung at many kindergartens and preschools.

The lyrics were written by Noboru Kojima and the music composed by Hiromi Sakamoto.

It began in March 1991, when it was performed as a gift to graduating students at a junior high school in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture.

Words like “big sky” and “wings” leave a strong impression, evoking the image of children taking flight into a new world.

In 2007, SMAP performed it in an NTT East commercial, which made it even more widely known.

With lyrics that convey gratitude to teachers and a resolve to set off while cherishing memories with friends, it’s perfect for the important milestone of graduation.

The teachers who have watched the children grow will surely be moved to tears.