Japanese Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB4836rank/position

[MV full] 365 Nichi no Kamihikōki / AKB48 [Official]

Sung by AKB48, this piece is a warm song with a pleasantly soothing tone.

Its message—that you don’t need to compare yourself to others and can move forward at your own pace—gently encourages listeners.

Although it was a coupling track on the single “Kuchibiru ni Be My Baby,” released in December 2015, it became widely loved as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Asa ga Kita.” As it has also taken root as a choral piece, it’s recommended as a song to celebrate the start of a new chapter during graduation season, when anxiety and excitement are intertwined.

Letter ~To You, Fifteen~Anjura Aki37rank/position

Angela Aki “Letter: To You, Fifteen” 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.

Friend ~Time of Departure~yuzu38rank/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.

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri39rank/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!

Letter ~To You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki40rank/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.

StaRtMrs. GREEN APPLE41rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – StaRt

An uplifting song from the student-friendly rock band Mrs.

GREEN APPLE.

This track, included on their album “Variety,” released in July 2015, gives a push to those embarking on a new chapter.

Its pop melody and powerful beat stir listeners’ hearts, offering the courage to face forward.

It was also featured in a Kao commercial, resonating with many people.

We’d love for everyone heading toward new challenges to listen to this song.

It will inspire the strength to overcome difficulties and the confidence to believe in yourself.

Last SongOfisharu Higedan Dism42rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Last Song [Studio Live Session]

The melody, which gently embraces the sadness of parting and the hope beyond it, is truly striking.

This song by Official HIGE DANDism weaves together the fleeting nature of time coming to an end and gratitude toward someone precious, resonating deeply with listeners’ hearts.

Even while carrying the loneliness of happy days coming to a close, it leaves you wanting to say “see you” with a smile in the end—such a warm message is embedded within.

Featured on the acclaimed 2019 October release Traveler, the song was also used as an insert track in the drama “Ato 3-kai, Kimi ni Aeru” (I Can See You Three More Times).

Sung while looking back on the irreplaceable moments spent with friends and teachers on the special day of a graduation ceremony, it’s sure to fill the venue with a moving atmosphere.

It will gently give a push to the children who are about to walk their separate paths.