Japanese Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

Thank you · GoodbyeSakushi: Ide Takao / Sakkyoku: Fukuda Wakako36rank/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.

Letter ~To You, Fifteen~Anjura Aki37rank/position

Angela Aki “Letter ~Dear You, Fifteen~” Official Music Video (HD)

A signature ballad by Angela Aki that resonates like a dialogue with oneself.

Inspired by a letter she wrote at the age of 15, this moving song gently accompanies hearts weighed down by worries and anxieties.

Released in September 2008 as her eighth single, it is also included on the album “ANSWER.” The piece was composed as the set song for the junior high division of the 75th NHK National School Music Competition, and it’s also well known as the theme song for the film “Have a Song on Your Lips.” Its message linking past and future is sure to give courage to graduates taking their next steps.

It’s a perfect song for the milestone of graduation.

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri38rank/position

Sakura Clear Skies

Singer-songwriter Yuuri, who enjoys overwhelming support among young people for his powerful vocals and relatable lyrics.

Released digitally in February 2021, this moving track was reportedly inspired by an email from a fan.

It was later included on his first album, Ichi, which features many hit songs.

While lamenting farewells to familiar scenery and loved ones, the lyrics—filled with gratitude—encourage men embarking on a new chapter to move forward with strength.

The song also drew attention when its production process was shared in a video, capturing the hearts of many listeners.

Why not listen to it during graduation and farewell seasons, reflecting on your gratitude to parents and friends who’ve supported you? It’ll surely give you the courage to take the next step!

Daphne (winter daphne)DISH//39rank/position

DISH// – Sweet Daphne [Official Video]

This popular rock number by DISH// drew attention as a co-written piece by vocalist Takumi Kitamura and Hattori from Macaroni Empitsu.

It delicately portrays the themes of deep affection for someone who is always by your side as you move forward each day, and the importance of having a place to return to.

Chosen as the theme song for the drama “The Winner in February: The Classroom of Guaranteed Success,” it was released as a single in November 2021 and is also included on the acclaimed album “TRIANGLE.” The warm, enveloping sound and the buoyant, march-like rhythm feel so pleasant.

Brimming with feelings for cherished friends and family, this song is, in my view, perfect as BGM for a graduation-celebration movie, enhancing touching scenes that invite both smiles and tears.

Friend ~Time of Departure~yuzu40rank/position

Friend ~Time to Set Out~ / Yuzu

The song “Tomo ~Tabidachi no Toki~,” perfectly suited for the moment of graduation, is a moving single by Yuzu.

For students standing at the threshold of a new beginning, its melody offers a warm resonance that lingers in the heart.

Infused with lyrics of courage and hope, it evokes a sense of connection even when thinking of loved ones far away.

Chosen as a required piece for the NHK National School Music Competition (N-Con), it has added color to a chapter of youth across the country.

Frequently performed at graduation ceremonies, this touching work has long been cherished as a classic that symbolizes both parting and new encounters.

Last SongOfisharu Higedan Dism41rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Last Song [Studio Live Session]

This song features warm, comforting vocals that resonate beautifully.

A work by Official HIGE DANDism, it was included on the album “Traveler,” released in October 2019, and enriched the story as an insert song for the special drama “U-NEXT presents Ato 3-kai, Kimi ni Aeru” (“I Can See You Three More Times”).

The rich band sound, colored by horns and percussion, gently spreads through the listener’s heart.

It’s recommended for scenes where you want to express gratitude to a teacher who is leaving a school filled with many memories to embark on a new journey.

Letter ~To You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki42rank/position

Angela Aki – Letter ~Dear You at Fifteen~ / THE FIRST TAKE

A moving song built on a unique concept: a 15-year-old self and a future self exchanging letters.

Based on Angela Aki’s own experiences, the lyrics gently embrace the anxieties and conflicts unique to adolescence, while conveying the warmth of an older self who offers a kind push forward.

The beautiful piano melody and her powerful vocals stir the listener’s heart.

Released in September 2008 as her eighth single, it peaked at No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Written as the set piece for the NHK National School Music Competition’s junior high division, it was also chosen as the theme song for the film “Have a Song on Your Lips.” It’s a classic I’d recommend not only to junior high students approaching graduation, but to anyone standing at a turning point in life.