[2026] Modern graduation songs: Reiwa-era staples and new tracks you should know
When you think of graduation songs nowadays, what tracks come to mind? Many people may be looking for a chorus piece to sing at the ceremony or a song to color their memories.
Even in the Reiwa era, moving graduation songs continue to be created one after another.
In this article, we cover a wide range of songs perfect for elementary and junior high school graduation ceremonies.
From timeless classics that have been sung for years to new graduation songs destined to become standards, we’ve gathered works that sing of friendship, gratitude, and hope for the future.
We hope you find the perfect song to mark this important new beginning!
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[2026] Today’s graduation songs: Must-know Reiwa-era classics and new graduation tracks (71–80)
Sakura, You, and Ituki.
A song that portrays a bittersweet love nestled in the cherry blossom season.
Tuki.’s delicate vocals resonate deeply in the heart.
You can picture the classroom on graduation day, the well-trodden path to school, and the fleeting scene of cherry blossoms scattering.
Released in January 2024, this track was also used as an insert song for ABEMA’s romance show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.
Graduation Edition 2024,” moving many listeners.
It’s recommended for moments of graduation farewells or when you want to look back on memories with someone special.
If you surrender yourself to Tuki.’s emotionally rich voice, you’ll surely feel a gentle warmth seep into your heart.
1096Cody Rī (Ri)
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.
Kadode no Ippo (feat. CHICO CARLITO)ASOBOiSM
A spring anthem teamed up by ASOBOiSM and CHICO CARLITO.
It’s a song that gives you a push to take that first step toward your dreams.
ASOBOiSM’s true-to-life lyrics pair perfectly with CHICO CARLITO’s powerful rap.
Released in March 2024, this track is sure to encourage not only those graduating or starting a new chapter, but anyone standing at a turning point in life.
Self-produced by ASOBOiSM, it showcases her musicality to the fullest.
A song that stays close to the mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety that come with a new environment.
Give it a listen!
spring skySuzuki Suzuki
A ballad themed around graduation by the sibling duo Suzuki Suzuki.
It captures the feelings of looking back on memories from their school days.
Words that recall youthful times—like the school chime, tears, and crumpled notebooks—really resonate.
Released digitally in February 2022, it also drew attention for its music video featuring three popular video creators.
The audio was pre-released on TikTok, generating buzz.
It’s perfect for students facing farewells with friends or anxiety about new environments.
A single packed with hearts-full memories and a future filled with hope.
Bring it on, spring.non
The spring-themed song crafted by Non is a work that offers hope and courage for the start of a new season.
It’s filled with the many feelings that come with the arrival of spring, and its lyrics leave a strong impression as if gently nudging listeners forward.
Released digitally in January 2025, this popular track had long been requested by fans to be officially recorded each time it was performed live.
In the music video, Non portrays a student band, capturing the sparkle of youth and lifting your spirits just by watching.
It’s a perfect song for anyone about to embark on a new chapter in life or looking to refresh their mindset.
People and PeopleYugeda Kensuke
This is a warm piece that sings about the importance of encounters through music.
The fresh melodies woven by Kensuke Yugedate carry a gentle calm while conveying a moving message.
In clear, resonant words, it speaks of the joy born from human connections and the inevitable meaning hidden within chance meetings.
Delivered by the pure voices of the Toin Gakuen Elementary School Choir, the work is also slated to appear in elementary school music textbooks starting in 2024.
Its kind, uplifting message is perfect for children who are about to meet new people in a new environment.
As they take their next step in school life, this wonderful song will give them courage and hope—please give it a listen.
CheeseSG
In May 2024, SG released a poppy, catchy track.
It’s a number themed around embracing change and finding contentment in the present.
Sprinkled with episodes from the past, it’s packed with SG’s distinctive worldview—fleeting fears, the desire for deep connection, and the courage to face uncomfortable truths.
With melodies and lyrics that resonate, it feels exciting, as if it holds hints for moving forward positively in life.
It’s a piece we especially want those who are struggling or feeling uncertain to hear, and it also aligns perfectly with graduation season.