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

YELLikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari “YELL” Music Video

An emotionally moving number by Ikimono-gakari, cherished as a staple graduation song.

Its lyrics don’t treat parting as something merely sad, but as a new beginning toward each person’s dreams—words that are sure to bring tears to your eyes.

Even while burdened by anxiety and inner conflict about the future—like having wings but being unable to fly—the image of confronting one’s own weakness and moving forward into tomorrow stirs everyone’s heart.

Released in September 2009 as a double A-side single alongside the bright, poppy “Joyful,” the song was also selected as a required piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

Though gentle in tone, this powerful track resonates deeply, encouraging those taking a new step forward with the bonds of their friends in their hearts.

JourneyFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – Tabiji (Official Video)

Welcoming a new beginning with memories that will stay in your heart forever—this is a song that stays by your side in that very moment.

Written by Okayama-born singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze, this track was composed in 2021 as the theme song for the drama “Nijiiro Karte.” Its relaxed, soulful sound is so quintessentially Fujii.

The lyrics, which suggest that everything we experience on the journey of life has meaning, gently encourage you as you take your first steps into the future at a milestone like graduation.

Also included on the acclaimed album “LOVE ALL SERVE ALL,” this song may remind you to feel gratitude toward those who have supported you.

bookmarkkuriipuhaipe

CreepHyp - “Bookmark” (MUSIC VIDEO)

Originally written and composed by CreepHyp’s Seikai Ozaki as a campaign song for FM802 and TSUTAYA in 2018, this track is included on the album “Nakitakunaru Hodo Ureshii Hibi ni.” Its lyrics juxtapose the image of falling cherry blossoms with a “bookmark” tucked into a half-read book, evoking lingering feelings for a relationship one isn’t ready to end—sentiments many graduates may relate to.

While the song portrays the sorrow of parting, the music itself is a bright, fast-paced rock tune.

That contrast gently pushes listeners forward into the future, even as they hold on to their loneliness.

It’s an emotional track that tenderly accompanies the wavering heart at the milestone of graduation.

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.