[Latest] Reiwa-Era Graduation Songs | Check Out the Most Popular Tracks!

pedestrian overpassNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Footbridge”

An ambitious work by Nogizaka46 that delicately portrays the emotions of standing at a crossroads in life.

Set against the season of cold, wintry winds, the protagonist’s hesitation and resolve as they try to take a step toward the future are striking.

While burdened by worries about their path and dreams, the image of a young person attempting to take a new step forward, as if guided by the view from atop a pedestrian bridge, is something anyone can relate to.

Released in December 2024, the work features 4th-generation member Sakura Endo as center and includes a new song by the 5th generation.

It comes in multiple editions from Type-A to Type-D, and also contains footage from the Hong Kong concert.

Highly recommended as a song that gently nudges forward those who hold both hope and anxiety for an unseen future.

Kadode no Ippo (feat. CHICO CARLITO)ASOBOiSM

Kadode no Ippo (feat. CHICO CARLITO)

A graduation song woven from the courage and anxiety of stepping onto a new stage.

Born from the collaboration between ASOBOiSM and CHICO CARLITO, this work beautifully captures both the sadness of leaving familiar ground and the anticipation of an unknown world.

Released on March 27, 2024, the track is a one-of-a-kind piece that fuses ASOBOiSM’s self-produced, distinctive musicality with CHICO CARLITO’s unique rap.

It’s a heartwarming anthem of support for anyone standing at a turning point in life—one you’ll want to listen to close by your side.

sentimentalculenasm

culenasm “Sentimental” (Official Music Video)

Culenasm’s song delivers sentimental feelings with raw emotion.

It’s a shoegaze number where roaring guitars resonate beautifully.

Released digitally on February 5, 2025, the track centers on themes of regret over past relationships and the bittersweet wish to return to those moments.

Through its guitar sound, it expresses both the beauty of memories and the ache of regret.

In December 2023, they also provided the theme song for director Hideki Noda’s film “Futari no Kizuato” (The Scars of Two).

It’s a recommended listen for anyone looking to confront past memories and emotions as graduation season approaches.

After the cherry blossomsTani Yuuki, cross-dominance Ryo‘LEFTY’Miyata

After the Sakura [MV] - Tani Yuuki, Ryo 'LEFTY' Miyata, cross-dominance

An encouraging song delicately depicting the shift from winter to spring has been born from the collaboration between Tani Yuuki and cross-dominance.

Through familiar scenes in everyday life—like the north wind, shadows, and a bus stop—it gently embraces moments of farewell and departure, becoming a warm and comforting piece.

The song was presented as the official theme for SAKURA MUSIC FES.

2025, held in March 2025, delivering a message perfectly suited to the spring season to many listeners.

Tani Yuuki’s clear, translucent vocals blend beautifully with the elegant melody produced by Ryo ‘LEFTY’ Miyata, offering gentle solace to the heart.

It’s a track that quietly gives you a nudge—whether you’re seeking to soothe a work-weary soul or are about to take a new step forward.

Cherry Blossom MoonSakurazaka46

Sakurazaka46 'Sakuzuki'

This work overlays the heartbreak of youthful farewells with the way cherry blossoms fall, weaving a message that is both refreshing and bittersweet—perfect for the feelings that come with a new school term.

Sakurazaka46’s piece wraps you in a warm sense of emotion, like a graduation album filled with cherished memories on a single page.

Released in February 2023, the song drew attention as Rena Moriya’s first center performance, sold 349,000 copies on the Oricon Weekly Single Ranking, and debuted at No.

1.

With lyrics that resonate in a season of new meetings and partings and a beautiful melody, it will surely stay close to the hearts of elementary school students facing graduation or moving up a grade and gently give them a push forward.

footprint(s)Little Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster “Ashiato” Music Video

A perfect song to give at the milestone of graduation is Little Glee Monster’s “Ashiato” (“Footprints”).

The group’s crystal-clear vocals beautifully color the delicate scenes of graduation.

Released as their 16th single, the song was performed by many students as the set piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition, junior high division.

Its lyrics, which convey the strength to believe in yourself and keep moving forward, also serve as a cheer for the many challenges you’ll face in life.

For everyone taking a first step toward an unseen future, it is sure to offer solid courage and hope.

1096Cody Rī (Ri)

Cody・Lee (Li) – 1096 (Music Video)

This is a song by Cody・Lee (李) that earnestly portrays the complex emotions of youth.

Centered on the three years of junior high and high school life, it weaves in memories of farewells with loved ones and the courage to take a new step forward.

Released in February 2023, it also drew attention for its music video filmed in Hanamaki City, Iwate Prefecture.

The lyrics, spun from vocalist and guitarist Hibiki Takahashi’s real experiences, are paired with a melody that gently embraces accumulating anxieties.

It’s a track that resonates with those facing graduation season—holding onto lingering attachments and regrets from school days, yet determined to move forward.