[Instagram Reels] Moving J-POP and Heart-Touching Classics Perfect for Graduation Season [2026]

exceed; surpass; go beyond; cross (over)[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Transcend (MV) (Anime “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray” Season 1 Opening Theme)

“Koeru” by [Alexandros] is a fiery story about surpassing your limits and breaking through the wall of your former self.

Its rock sound, which expresses the determination to fight yourself and move forward, is sure to give a powerful push during graduation season as you dive into a new environment.

Released in April 2025 as an advance track from the album “PROVOKE,” it also drew attention for being chosen as the opening theme for the anime Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray.

With a structure that intertwines tension and release, this song goes beyond a simple pep anthem, transforming even inner turmoil into strength.

It’s a perfect fit for retirement-from-club activities videos or reels that look back on memories with friends.

If you want the courage to take a new step forward, give it a listen!

CorrectRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Music Video]

This work, which portrays the courage to face questions without definitive answers, is an anthem of encouragement dedicated to everyone standing at a crossroads in life.

It is included on RADWIMPS’ 2018 album “ANTI ANTI GENERATION” and was written specifically for NHK’s “RADWIMPS 18 Festival.” Unlike the solvable problems we learn at school, the song emphasizes the importance of discovering your own answers on the path ahead.

A beautiful piano-centered arrangement intertwines with vocalist Yojiro Noda’s gentle voice, quietly supporting those attending graduation ceremonies or embarking on new beginnings.

It is a song we especially hope will be heard by those parting from friends or feeling anxious about the future.

Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46

The Only One Who Knows Is the Graduation Photo by Hinatazaka46

With the arrival of spring comes a season of farewells, and many people may be holding onto feelings they were never able to express.

Capturing those bittersweet yet warm emotions is Hinatazaka46’s “Only the Graduation Photo Knows.” Released in January 2025 as their 13th single with Nao Kosaka as center, the song drew attention for coinciding with the major milestone of a first-generation member’s graduation.

Debuting at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Ranking, it has resonated with many listeners.

Its beautifully classic J-pop melody vividly evokes scenes from graduation day.

Try pairing it with videos that capture everyday moments with friends or quiet times in the classroom.

It’s the perfect song for this season—one that offers the courage to move forward, even amid the sadness.

sunflowerAdo

[Ado] Sunflower

This is a moving number that captures a single-minded desire to become as strong as someone you admire.

Released by Ado in July 2023, the song was written as the theme for the TBS drama “18/40: Dreams and Love, If We’re Together.” Using a flower that turns toward the sun as its motif, the lyrics depict the resolve to face forward by the side of someone important—perfect for the season of new departures.

The warm melody crafted by Miyuhan intertwines with Ado’s delicate yet powerful vocals to light a spark of courage in listeners’ hearts.

Paired with an Instagram Reel of cherished photos and videos, it’s sure to convey your gratitude to friends and mentors.

An inspiring track we hope everyone taking a new step will listen to.

Prologue.Yuika

Prologue. / “Yuika” [MV]

When it comes to heartwarming graduation songs themed around the end of high school and a new beginning, this one stands out.

Written by Yuika to coincide with her own high school graduation, the song treats all the days up to now as a story’s prologue and boldly sings of a resolve for the future.

Released in March 2023, it was featured as an insert song on ABEMA’s “Koisuru Weekend Homestay 2023 Spring ~Sweet Orange Memory~,” resonating with many listeners.

The lyrics are sprinkled with memories like casual classroom chats and snapping photos together, linking to the listener’s own recollections.

It’s not just about the sadness of parting—it’s a cheer song that gives you the courage to leap into a new world.

Give it a listen when you’re making a video with close friends or when you want to give yourself a push forward.