[2026] Modern graduation songs: Reiwa-era staples and new tracks you should know

Futabaaimyon

Aimyon – Futaba [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

A song released in March 2022.

Created as an anthem to support the 18-year-old generation, this track features a warm melody and uplifting lyrics that really resonate.

Its themes of growth and new beginnings align with graduation season, carrying a heartfelt message of encouragement for young people.

It was written as the theme song for NHK’s special program “Aimyon 18-sai Matsuri,” and its first performance—an online collaboration with 1,000 18-year-olds across Japan—was especially memorable.

This piece gently nudges those embarking on graduation or a new chapter forward.

You’ll surely connect with Aimyon’s delicate expressiveness.

CheeseSG

Cheese – SG(Official Music Video)

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.

Sky-blue DaysSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “Sky-Blue Days”

SHISHAMO, a band hugely popular among young people, delivers “Mizuiro no Hibi,” a song that truly symbolizes a new era of graduation.

Since its 2018 release, it has been widely known as the theme for the Calpis Water commercial and is becoming a staple BGM for graduation ceremonies.

The music video, which feels like looking back on one’s school days, features guest appearances and depicts slice-of-life drama.

The shifting emotions that come with a major milestone are woven throughout the lyrics, leaving a strong impression on listeners.

It’s a heartwarming song with a message perfectly suited to the day of setting out from graduation—highly recommended.

Sakura, You, and Ituki.

tuki. 'Sakura Kimi Watashi' Official Music Video

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.

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.