Resonating with Graduation Season! A Collection of Graduation Songs for Instagram Stories [2026]

allyGReeeeN

Mikata

This work expresses gratitude for those who are always by our side and support us.

It was created by GReeeeN, a vocal group known for all its members holding dental licenses.

Written as the theme song for the 2022 film “Haw,” it’s included on the album “Rockin’ Beats.” Set to a warm, acoustic sound, it sings about the everyday moments and bonds shared with loved ones.

The lyrics, which portray the value of standing by someone’s side, make for a moving accompaniment to scenes reflecting on school memories before graduation.

Consider using it as BGM when creating a memory video that celebrates the bonds between friends and teammates.

StoryAI

AI – Story

A ballad that sings of the reassurance of having someone precious by your side and of an overflowing, profound love.

It’s a single released in May 2005 by AI, a singer-songwriter who captivates listeners with her husky, soulful voice.

The dramatic melody that begins with a piano intro gently wraps around the listener’s heart.

Also included on the album “Mic-a-holic Ai,” this beloved classic stayed on the charts for over 70 weeks after its release.

It’s also known as the Japanese ending theme for the Disney film Big Hero 6.

Carrying the message that you are not alone, this song is perfect for graduation-season memory videos that express gratitude to friends and mentors.

Be sure to give this warm, moving number a listen.

Thank youikimonogakari

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

Feelings of gratitude that are too embarrassing to express on ordinary days might be easier to convey honestly at graduation.

This song, which portrays the warmth of holding someone’s hand, the happiness of everyday life, and the resolve to walk toward the future, is truly a classic befitting a new beginning.

Ikimono-gakari’s single “Arigatou,” released in May 2010, was widely loved as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyōbō.

Thanks to its universal appeal, it was also selected as the entrance march for the 2011 National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

The words woven by Yoshiki Mizuno and the vocals of Kiyoe Yoshioka gently resonate with listeners’ hearts.

Why not listen to this perfect piece for expressing gratitude to parents and teachers at graduation and find the courage to take your next step?

Graduation Song ~Let Me Say Thank You Over and Over~GReeeeN

Sotsugyounouta Arigatouha Nanndomo Iwasete

I wish I could stay like this forever, but I have to set off…

This is a message song that sings of the bittersweet feelings and gratitude right before graduation.

Created by GReeeeN, it’s the coupling track to the single “Aisubeki Ashita, Isshun to Isshō o,” released in March 2014, and it’s also included on the best-of album “C, D desu to!?”.

It was featured in an AOKI commercial, cheering on the first steps into a new chapter of life.

Carried by a refreshing, warm melody, the straightforward lyrics make you want to say “thank you” over and over again, striking straight to the heart.

The harmony woven by the four voices is moving, making it a perfect song for a slideshow of memories with friends or an Instagram story to express your gratitude.

Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai

Homeward Road in March

Singer-songwriter Dai Hirai, who has been attracting attention for his acoustic sound and sweet vocals.

This song features an arrangement highlighted by clear, spacious piano and strings that leaves a strong impression.

It portrays the mixed feelings at the end of youth marked by graduation and the poised resolve felt in the moment of stepping into a new world, even amid loneliness.

Even though you should be closer to your dream, the tears won’t stop—because the days spent with your friends are too precious.

That message is sure to gently resonate with hearts on the brink of graduation.

Released in February 2022, this moving ballad is also included on the album “LOVE＋PEACE.”

Bye, my friendbokula.

bokula. – By My Friend - [Official Music Video]

Bokula is a rock band based in Hiroshima whose down-to-earth music has won strong support from younger listeners.

This track, included on their mini-album “Seikatsu ni, Yorisoi.” released in May 2022, is a fan favorite with over 8.5 million streams.

Its lyrics, which seem to affirm all the ordinary days and memories shared before a parting, will likely resonate with many who are about to graduate.

The album featuring this song won the Chugoku Block Award at the 15th CD Shop Awards.

Pair this emotional rock tune with an Instagram Story packed with memories of your friends to create a truly moving post!

Sakura, You, and Ituki.

tuki. 'Sakura Kimi Watashi' Official Music Video

Layered over the gentle melody woven by the acoustic guitar, tuki.’s vocals—imbued with a level of expressiveness hard to believe for a teenager—vividly evoke the bittersweet scenes of graduation season.

Released in January 2024, this piece was written as an insert song for ABEMA’s romance reality show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.

Graduation Edition 2024.” Its lyrics, which trace the farewells that come with cherry blossoms and the fleeting end of a young love, convey the universal ache of youth, portraying a protagonist who accepts the end of a relationship while striving to cherish the memories.

Much like the music video on YouTube that has surpassed 10 million views, it’s a sentimental acoustic number you’ll want to pair with a story compiling memories with friends.