Mr.Children’s Graduation Songs, School Entrance Songs, and Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Song of DepartureMr.Children1rank/position

Mr.Children “Tabidachi no Uta” MUSIC VIDEO

This is the 31st single by Mr.Children, a band that has continued to lead the Japanese rock scene, released in October 2007.

It was selected as the theme song for the film “Sky of Love” and also used in an NTT East Japan commercial.

The song made a major impact, topping the Oricon weekly chart and ranking eighth on the year-end chart.

This work is a medium-tempo ballad filled with a warm cheer for those standing at a crossroads.

Its message—that hearts remain connected even when apart—arrives through Kazutoshi Sakurai’s delicate vocals and the gentle soundscape.

It’s a number we especially want to send to those approaching the milestone of graduation and preparing to take their next step.

Performed with the tender tones of a wind ensemble, it will envelop the entire venue in warmth and create a moving moment overflowing with tears and smiles.

Endless JourneyMr.Children2rank/position

Mr.Children “Endless Journey” MUSIC VIDEO

This is the 15th single by Mr.Children, released in October 1998 after the band fully resumed activities following a hiatus.

Chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Naguru Onna,” it topped the Oricon charts despite its length of nearly seven minutes.

Beginning with a quiet, introspective question and gradually opening up like a widening vista, the song is notable for its structure and a dynamic arrangement where band sounds interweave with strings to moving effect.

The lyrics, imbued with a will to break free from stagnation, open a new door, and move forward, are perfectly suited to the milestone of graduation.

Selected as Song of the Year at the 13th Japan Gold Disc Awards, this masterpiece is one we especially recommend to those taking a new step or facing a turning point in life.

Prayer ~ Orbit of TearsMr.Children3rank/position

Mr.Children “Prayer ~Trajectory of Tears” Music Video (Short ver.)

Mr.Children, who have produced numerous ballad songs.

When it comes to their songs themed around farewell, “Inori ~Namida no Kido~” likely comes to mind.

The song portrays a parting with a loved one, as well as a break from one’s unreliable self.

In fact, the song was originally going to be titled “Nostalgia.” As a result, the lyrics are crafted so that people leaving their hometowns can also relate to them.

Consider giving it to someone who’s moving away for a job transfer or leaving home after graduation.

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Footsteps ~Be StrongMr.Children4rank/position

Mr.Children “Footsteps ~Be Strong” MUSIC VIDEO

A heartwarming cheer song by Mr.Children that gives you the courage and hope to step into a new environment! Released in November 2014, it was their first single in about two years and seven months, and their first tie-in with a Monday 9 p.m.

drama in 13 years.

Many listeners surely found the lyrics resonating with their own mix of excitement and anxiety about starting a new chapter.

The message, “The future you dreamed of is surely not that far away,” gently nudges anyone striving toward their goals.

It’s perfect as graduation ceremony background music or as a gift for someone diving into a new environment!

If I Could Become a StarMr.Children5rank/position

If I Could Become a Star by Mr.Children

This Mr.

Children song gives a powerful push to those standing at a crossroads, leaving the familiar town behind to chase their dreams.

It’s a track from their second album, “Kind of Love,” released in December 1992.

Though not a single, it enjoys immense popularity among fans as a live staple.

It was also used as an insert song in the 1994 drama “Wakamono no Subete,” profoundly stirring the hearts of young people at the time.

The lyrics, which convey a strong resolve to leap into a new world while carrying loneliness, quietly set listeners’ hearts ablaze.

It’s the perfect song to belt out at karaoke during farewell season, pledging to reunite with friends someday.

365 daysMr.Children6rank/position

Mr.Children “365 Days” Mr.Children TOUR POPSAURUS 2012

Mr.Children’s “365 Days” is loved by people of all ages.

The song is well known from commercials, and despite never being released as a single, it remains hugely popular among fans.

For those who feel things like “I know it myself, but there’s nothing I can do” or “Waves of love keep rushing over me,” it’s a track you can’t help but relate to.

If you’re worried that graduation might separate you from someone you like before you can confess your feelings, this song is sure to strike a chord.

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I want to hug you.Mr.Children7rank/position

Mr.Children “I Want to Hold You” Mr.Children [(an imitation) blood orange] Tour

Among Mr.Children’s love ballads, the song “Dakishimetai” (“I Want to Hold You”) is especially popular.

It’s from the band’s very early days—their second single, released in 1992.

If you’re anxious about parting ways at graduation, a song like this might help calm your nerves and remind you of the essence of your feelings for the other person.

It’s a track that truly conveys a heartfelt sense of “love.” If someone you adore sent you a song like this, you might be moved to tears.

It’s a classic love song that has been cherished for years.

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