Popular and recommended graduation songs on YouTube Shorts: a special feature of memorable classics

On the day of departure…Kawashima Ai

Ai Kawashima / On the Day of Departure (Lyrics)

This is a moving ballad by Ai Kawashima that has been sung by many as a graduation song.

Included on the single “Dear/Tabidachi no Hi ni…” released in February 2006, this piece is the original version of I WiSH’s hit song “Ashita e no Tobira,” for which Kawashima served as the vocalist.

Although it shares the same melody, this work vividly portrays student life leading up to graduation.

The lyrics, which depict nostalgic scenes such as the view from the classroom window and casual conversations with friends, overlap with our own memories and can’t help but bring tears to our eyes.

It’s a timeless classic, perfect not only for those about to graduate but also for anyone wishing to look back on days spent with dear friends.

Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai

Homeward Road in March

Hirai Dai is a singer-songwriter drawing attention for his organic sound rooted in surf music.

Released in February 2022, this work features an arrangement centered on a piano that’s both clear and deeply resonant—truly moving.

You’ve taken a step closer to your dream, yet tears begin to fall.

You realize it’s because the days you spent with your friends are too precious to let go.

This message, evoking the end of youth and the first step into a new world, feels perfect for March, the graduation season.

Included on the best-of album “LOVE＋PEACE,” this track is a delicate yet powerful ballad that gives you a gentle push on the day of a new departure.

cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro

Sakura

It’s one of the quintessential “sakura songs” you want to listen to when spring arrives.

Virtually synonymous with Naotaro Moriyama, this track was released as a single in March 2003 and sold over a million copies.

Its lyrics superimpose farewells to dear friends and moments of new beginnings onto the image of cherry blossoms that bloom beautifully and fall all too quickly, resonating deeply in the heart.

Beyond the sadness of parting, the song also conveys a warm, resilient strength, pledging to reunite in the future while holding onto unchanging feelings.

It was also beloved as the ending theme for the MBS/TBS program “Sekai Ururun Taizai-ki.” It’s a classic you’ll want to play on the day of graduation, reminiscing about the days spent with your friends.

proofflumpool

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

This is a perfect song for graduation ceremonies and the season of farewells.

Released by flumpool in 2011, it’s also known for being the set piece for the middle school division of the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

With lyrics themed around friendship, parting, and cherished memories, paired with a grand melody, it truly resonates.

The song was performed at the 62nd NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2011 and has been loved by many.

It’s also recommended as BGM when making graduation videos on TikTok.

It’s a track that lets you look back on bonds with friends and gives you the courage to take a new step, so be sure to listen to it along with your graduation memories.

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri

Sakura Clear Skies

A song that truly resonates during graduation season is Yuuri’s “Sakurabare.” Yuuri, known for “Dry Flower” and “Kakurenbo,” released this track digitally in 2021.

Perfect for closing out one’s youth, the song carries a moving message of gratitude to one’s parents.

Yuuri’s emotional vocals powerfully convey that thankfulness and are sure to capture listeners’ hearts.

As you look back on bonds with friends and family at graduation and take your next step forward, this song will be a source of encouragement for many.

Because we’re friends.Ochiai Wataru

Wataru Ochiai – Because We’re Friends (Music Video)

Student days are filled with countless memories, and the moment of parting is both beautiful and tinged with melancholy.

Wataru Ochiai’s “Tomodachi Yakarane” captures those feelings richly.

With a warm melody, it portrays everyday life at school and farewells to close friends, celebrating the strength of our bonds.

This song has the power to dispel the anxiety of growing distant and to make us feel the constancy of our ties; it resonates especially deeply when heard during graduation season.

Its sincere lyrics give listeners courage and hope, offering a cheer for taking a new step forward.

Dear, boyHump Back

Hump Back – “Dear, Boy” Music Video

This song by Hump Back, a three-piece girls band from Osaka, is a heartfelt message to everyone who keeps chasing their dreams.

Its passionate lyrics, urging the self who’s about to forget a once-held dream that it’s not over yet, strike a powerful chord with listeners.

Carried by a simple yet powerful rock sound, and highlighted by Momoko Hayashi’s straight, earnest vocals, this track was their major-label debut single released in June 2018, and it was also used as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Buzz Rhythm 02.” It’s the perfect song to listen to when parting ways with friends after graduation or when you feel anxious about a new challenge.

It will steady a wavering heart and give you a firm push forward.