Japanese Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

Best FriendKiroro50rank/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?

Song of LifeTakeuchi Mariya51rank/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 Tomoko52rank/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.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro53rank/position

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video

A singer-songwriter with a voice of “steel and glass” that resonates in the heart, Motohiro Hata delivers a moving ballad.

Its lyrics, which depict the warmth of those who stay by your side and the unchanging bonds that endure even when you’re apart, gently accompany the season of farewells.

Released as a single in August 2014, this song was created as the theme for the film STAND BY ME Doraemon.

Its messages, which overlap with the film’s story, struck a chord with many people, and by 2015 it had become such a massive hit that it dominated the karaoke charts.

No matter if the paths we walk diverge in the future, our hearts will always remain connected—this is a song that inspires that kind of hope.

Sing it arm-in-arm with friends at graduations or farewell parties as they set off on new journeys, and it will surely become a memory that lasts a lifetime!

JourneyFuji Kaze54rank/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.

GraduationKobukuro55rank/position

Kobukuro “Graduation”

It’s an emotional ballad that evokes scenes from our school days—like the view from the classroom window and the blackboard.

The lyrics carry not only the sadness of parting but also hope for the future that’s about to begin, gently encouraging those who are stepping onto a new path.

Created by Kobukuro, known for their beautiful harmonies, the song was released in March 2020 as their 31st single.

They deliberately chose not to attach any tie-ins, producing it with the pure wish that it would be sung at ceremonies.

It was later included on the album “Star Made” and has since become a springtime staple.

Listen to it while reflecting on days spent with friends, and you’re sure to be filled with gratitude.

It’s a warm, uplifting anthem that gives courage at life’s turning points.

CHARMWANIMA56rank/position

WANIMA「CHARM」（OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

WANIMA, known for their straightforward lyrics and Japanese rock sound, is popular across a wide range of generations.

This song is included on WANIMA’s third single “Gotta Go!!,” released in 2017.

WANIMA is well-loved for friendship-themed songs and tracks that lift you up when you’re feeling down; this song, too, conveys feelings toward friends, and will likely resonate with those approaching graduation.

Though there may be various anxieties, by the time you finish listening you’ll feel refreshed—truly a song that serves like a “good-luck charm.”

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