Yuzu Graduation Songs, Entrance Ceremony Songs, and Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Friend ~Time to Depart~yuzu1rank/position

Yuzu “Friend ~The Time of Departure~”

Released in 2013 and also broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” this number was chosen as the set piece for the middle school division in the 80th NHK National School Music Competition, so many people may have sung it in chorus.

It was created out of feelings for the staff who supported the tour after the Great East Japan Earthquake, and its theme is the strong bond that connects us under the same sky even when we’re apart.

Its beautiful melody and Yuzu’s signature warm harmonies really resonate in the heart.

It’s a song of encouragement that you’ll especially want to hear during the season of farewells.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu2rank/position

Yuzu “Eikou no Kakehashi” Music Video

When it comes to iconic songs that affirm tears and offer hope for the future, isn’t it this cheer song sung by Yuzu? Released in July 2004, the track was chosen as the official theme song for NHK’s coverage of the Athens Olympics that same year.

It was later included on albums such as “1 ~ONE~,” and has been sung and cherished for many years.

The lyrics are compelling in the way they powerfully celebrate the journey of overcoming suffering and setbacks to leave one’s mark.

As a surprise for a teacher who has supported you, why not have everyone sing this piece together at the farewell ceremony to express deep gratitude?

Until we meet againyuzu3rank/position

Mataaeruhimade

Farewells are not an “ending,” but a “promise to meet again.” This is the uplifting message carried by Yuzu’s 14th single.

Released in October 2002, the song was used as the ending theme for the TV Asahi anime Doraemon and also featured in the film Doraemon: Nobita and the Windmasters.

The lyrics were created with contributions from children at an “Adventure Camp,” with Yujin Kitagawa carefully weaving their sincere words into lines that resonate deeply.

It peaked at No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and was performed as part of a medley at the 2003 NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It’s a perfect choice for a class that wants to express gratitude to their teacher at a graduation ceremony.

Singing of bonds that don’t fade even when apart and the hope of meeting again, this song is ideal for showing appreciation to a beloved teacher while presenting how much you’ve grown.

Friend ~Time of Departure~yuzu4rank/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.

Song Yellyuzu5rank/position

Yuzu “Song Cheer” Music Video

A cheer song by Yuzu released in February 2018.

It was created to coincide with the PyeongChang Winter Olympics and Paralympics, and also became familiar as a Nippon Life commercial song.

A major highlight of the piece is that it features a grand chorus recorded with 2,018 participants selected through an open call.

The lyrics focus not on wins, losses, or results, but on staying close to anyone giving their best, offering generous applause and words of affirmation.

The song is included on the album BIG YELL, where it was placed in a key position to conclude the work.

It’s a perfect track for moments when you want to express gratitude to a teacher or mentor.

Rather than cheering from above, its message conveys thanks to those who watched over and supported you, making it a moving choice as a surprise song for graduation ceremonies.

Shineyuzu6rank/position

Yuzu - Hikare

Yuzu’s song “Hikare” is a cheer anthem dedicated to young people stepping onto a new path.

At this important turning point where anxiety and anticipation intersect, it offers a warm message of support.

Released in 2014, the song is marked by the pleasant sound of acoustic guitar and the duo’s memorable harmonies.

Its message—that no effort ever goes to waste—conveys a sense of hope perfectly suited to graduation ceremonies.

Let “Hikare” gently accompany your anxious heart and give you the courage to take that first step.

Until the day we meet againyuzu7rank/position

Until the Day We Meet Again / Yuzu (Cover)

This is the 14th single by Yuzu, a folk duo known for numerous hits including “Eikou no Kakehashi,” who started out as street musicians.

The song was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Doraemon, and its lively melody helps convey a positive feeling about parting.

Since the original track is centered on acoustic guitar, it’s perfect for a solo performance dedicated to graduates.

It’s easy to try because it mostly uses basic chords, but if you have the bandwidth, practicing with a blues harp as well will enhance the atmosphere—so definitely give it a shot.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Ah, the days of youthyuzu8rank/position

Yuzu “Ah, The Days of Youth” MUSIC VIDEO

Yuzu’s ninth single, released in May 2000, became their first to reach No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and was certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of Japan, making it one of their signature songs.

While pushing the driving force of a band sound to the forefront, it also showcases the duo’s standout harmonies.

The lyrics portray former friends and first loves each walking their own path in life, while straightforwardly singing of the memories of youth that remain deep in the heart.

It resonates with a message of moving forward even as relationships change with the passage of time.

The song is also included on the album “Tobira” and the best-of collection “Yuzu Iroha 1997–2017,” and it has been loved for many years.

With its strength to look back on student days without standing still, it’s a perfect track for a graduation scene that marks a new first step.

Departure Numberyuzu9rank/position

Departure Number

It sings about the journey so far—racing forward with everything you’ve got, failing along the way in order to grasp the hopes and dreams that lie ahead—and about how the journey will continue from here on out.

When you keep throwing yourself into the challenge to achieve your goals and make your dreams come true, no matter how tough it gets or how many times you fail, what you gain is immense, isn’t it? This song teaches us the importance of charging ahead with all your might.

When you “graduate” from something, something new is waiting for you, right? It’s a song that gives you a push on the back when you take that first step into a new environment!

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HATSUMI

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Goodbye Busyuzu10rank/position

Yuzu 'Sayonara Bus' PV

A song by Yuzu that poignantly depicts two people at a bus stop, with departure time approaching, heading down separate paths.

Released as a single in March 1999 and included on the album “Yuzuen,” it’s one of their signature early tracks.

Written and composed by Yujin Kitagawa, the simple tones of acoustic guitar and harmonica resonate deeply.

Though it wasn’t backed by a major tie-in, its relatable lyrics earned strong support, and it has long been a live staple.

The sparing words, the time slipping by, and the scene of seeing someone off while holding unspoken feelings are sure to resonate with those parting ways at graduation.

If you’re facing a farewell with someone important, listen to this song and take a moment to face your true feelings.