A lovely graduation song

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

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
With the motto “Learn the basics and enjoy putting them into practice,” I worked as a vocal coach specializing in Western music. As a teen, I questioned the idea that “Western music equals English,” and started listening to songs from around the world. Today, I devour music from over 80 countries and run a personal blog introducing tracks. I often listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. I’ll keep updating articles daily to find the one perfect song you’re looking for!

As graduation season approaches, many of you might be on the lookout for moving songs that are perfect for slideshows or Instagram Reels.

When you pair your photos with music, even ordinary moments from daily life can come back to you as special memories.

In this article, we’ve gathered heartfelt gems—centered on the latest J-POP hits born in the Reiwa era, along with nostalgic classics that never go out of style.

You’ll find tear-jerking graduation songs as well as uplifting anthems to support your next step.

Discover the one track that will convey your feelings in a video tribute for someone special!

[Instagram Reels] Moving J-POP and Heart-Touching Classics to Use in Graduation Season [2026] (41–50)

On nights when cherry blossoms fallaimyon

Aimyon – On the Night the Cherry Blossoms Fall [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

On nights when cherry blossoms fallaimyon

Aimyon is a singer-songwriter who enjoys broad support across a wide range of listeners, especially among younger generations.

The theme song for the dating reality show “Koi to Ookami ni wa Damasarenai,” released in February 2021, is a track that portrays the feelings of unrequited love set against a night of falling cherry blossoms.

The image of the protagonist deepening their feelings for the other person on a chilly April night is striking.

Many people may find themselves relating to that universal longing—the kind that makes you want to see someone for no clear reason.

It’s the perfect number for filming Reels with friends after graduation ceremonies or for memory videos during cherry blossom season.

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Friend ~Time of Departure~yuzu

Yuzu “Friend ~The Time of Departure~”

Friend ~Time of Departure~yuzu

An uplifting anthem that sends heartfelt cheers to friends facing the season of farewells.

Originally written by Yujin Kitagawa as a message of gratitude to the staff who supported their nationwide tour after the Great East Japan Earthquake, the song served as the prototype.

It was later reworked as the compulsory piece for the Middle School Division of the 80th NHK National School Music Competition and released as a single in September 2013.

It was also featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” and has since become widely beloved as a choral piece.

Its message—wishing that those who carry anxiety and uncertainty as they embark on a new path will look forward while holding memories of irreplaceable friends close to their hearts—resonates alongside beautiful harmonies.

If you’re making a graduation ceremony reel, this song is perfect for reaffirming the bond that keeps hearts connected even when you’re apart.

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If there’s a “see you”Mirei Touyama

Mirei Touyama “If There Were Another Goodbye” Lyric Video

If there’s a “see you” Mirei Toyama

It’s the perfect song for saying thank you while looking back on memories with a lover in a graduation farewell scene.

Released digitally by Mirei Toyama in August 2021, this work is a cover of a heartbreak song originally released by Kuukairi Sawada in 2018.

Its lo‑fi textured arrangement tugs at the heart, making for an emotional finish.

Reflecting on three years of memories as “a lifetime’s worth of happiness,” the lyrics carefully weave together regret and gratitude—ideal for expressing “thank you” to someone important at the milestone of graduation.

It’s a bittersweet yet warm track that carries a message of accepting the pain of parting while still trying to look forward.

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In conclusion

Songs that move the heart and color the special milestone of graduation help etch memories more deeply.

By finding tracks that suit Instagram Reels or slideshows, you can turn your graduation moments into a cherished piece that brings them back to life again and again.

Be sure to add your favorite song and preserve those irreplaceable times in a lasting form.