Japanese Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

Song of a FriendBUMP OF CHICKEN50rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Friend’s Song”

The song I want to listen to while reflecting on a friend I’m parting ways with is BUMP OF CHICKEN’s “Tomodachi no Uta” (“Song of Friends”).

The lyrics, written by Motoo Fujiwara as he thought of characters from works he loved since childhood, convey a clumsy yet warm sense of friendship, and the grand sound incorporating trumpet is sure to resonate deeply with men as well.

Released in February 2011 as their 19th single, this track moved many as the theme song for the film “Doraemon: Nobita and the New Steel Troops—Angel Wings.” It’s a song that wraps up the anxieties of a new departure and gently nudges you forward.

Even if you end up walking separate paths, it makes you believe the time you shared won’t disappear—a masterpiece filled with kindness.

Best FriendKiroro51rank/position

Kiroro ｢Best Friend｣ Official Music Video

The 10th single by Kiroro, a duo from Okinawa, is a song that expresses gratitude to a best friend in plain, heartfelt words.

Released in June 2001, it became well known as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Churasan,” and was also performed at the 52nd NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen—truly a classic.

It’s a ballad filled with Chiharu Tamashiro’s feelings for her partner, Ayano Kinjo, and its lyrics of gratitude to a supportive friend resonate deeply with anyone standing at the milestone of graduation.

While the piano leaves a strong impression, the simple melody also pairs beautifully with acoustic guitar.

Why not convey your appreciation to a dear friend through your own performance?

BELIEVESugimoto Ryuichi52rank/position

[Choral Song] Believe / With Lyrics [9/200]

This song was created in 1998 as the ending theme for NHK’s “Ikimono Chikyū Kikō” (A Journey of Life on Earth).

Its beautiful piano melody and hope-filled lyrics have long been cherished at graduation ceremonies and school events.

Celebrating the importance of friendship and mutual support, it gives people the strength to face forward, believing they can overcome any hardship.

Many of you may have actually sung it at your graduation.

In 2017, it was also featured in a commercial encouraging exam-takers, cementing its status as a classic beloved across generations.

It’s a wonderful song that gently supports not only those graduating, but everyone taking a new step forward.

Song of LifeTakeuchi Mariya53rank/position

Mariya Takeuchi – Inochi no Uta (Song of Life) with Lyrics (Two-Part Chorus)

“Inochi no Uta,” with lyrics by Mariya Takeuchi and music by Takatsugu Muramatsu, is a wonderful choice perfectly suited for an elementary school graduation ceremony.

This song, which colors the important moments of life, will warmly watch over the children as they embark on a new beginning.

Its tender, childlike innocence and hopeful melody for the future are overwhelming and deeply moving.

After Mariya Takeuchi covered it herself, “Inochi no Uta” reached even more hearts.

When sung by children, its purity stands out even more, sure to become a treasured memory for life.

Experience this masterpiece, so fitting for a fresh start, in chorus!

bondYamazaki Tomoko54rank/position

"Kizuna" Chorus Song / Mixed Choir in Three Parts / Full Ensemble (All) - With Full Lyrics - For Part Practice - Covered by Singer micah

Beloved as a staple song for graduation ceremonies, this choral piece by Tomoko Yamazaki features lyrics that evoke everyday moments with friends—like cherry blossom season or the walk home at dusk.

It reminds us that the times we spent laughing together and sometimes struggling are irreplaceable treasures.

Its warm message—that even when we part, our hearts remain deeply connected—helps turn the sadness of farewell into hope.

Included in a song collection published in July 2010, the work was originally composed as a commemorative piece for a choral seminar.

Characterized by simple yet beautiful harmonies, it continues to be sung in various arrangements, such as three-part mixed chorus and two-part equal voices.

It’s a perfect song for graduation ceremonies and send-off gatherings, where an entire class can unite their hearts and sing as one.

JourneyFuji Kaze55rank/position

Fujii Kaze – Tabiji (Official Video)

Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze, who draws attention for his genre-blending musicality.

Released digitally in March 2021, this piece was written as the theme song for the TV drama “Nijiiro Karte.” The story behind its creation—crafted to align with the drama’s worldview after interactions on set—is wonderful, too.

The nostalgic electric piano tones and his soulful vocals warmly embrace the listener.

Comparing life to a long journey, the lyrics affirm that even past mistakes and farewells have meaning, making it a perfect fit for occasions that mark new beginnings, such as farewell gatherings.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro56rank/position

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video

This is one of Motohiro Hata’s signature ballads, where his clear high-tone vocals and the warm sound of an acoustic guitar sink deep into the heart.

The song portrays deep affection for someone precious nearby, along with the hope that even when you’re apart, your hearts remain connected.

Its compassionate message—searching for what you can do for the other person—really strikes a chord.

Released as a single in August 2014, it moved many to tears as the theme song for the film “STAND BY ME Doraemon.”