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

MemoriesNiziU

NiziU Digital Single「Memories」 (Official Audio)

This song was created to celebrate the start of youth.

It paints the emotions of “hellos” and “goodbyes” that come with the arrival of spring, set to a bright, pop melody.

The voices of NiziU’s nine members cheer on students as they create “unforgettable memories.” Released in February 2024, it was also chosen as the theme song for Universal Studios Japan’s “Uni Spring” campaign.

It’s a track we hope not only graduating students but everyone taking a new step will listen to.

As you savor the feelings of spring’s arrival and graduation, why not enjoy it together with someone special?

1096Cody Rī (Ri)

Cody・Lee (Li) – 1096 (Music Video)

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.

On nights when cherry blossoms fallaimyon

Aimyon – On the Night the Cherry Blossoms Fall [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

As if symbolizing the arrival of a new season and the partings it brings, Aimyon’s “Sakura ga Furu Yoru wa” is a richly emotional song perfectly suited to the milestone of graduation.

While delicately portraying encounters and farewells, the track also carries a charm that inspires the hopes of spring.

In the lyrics Aimyon weaves, anxiety and anticipation for the future coexist, adding color to graduation ceremonies and offering warm comfort to listeners.

Hearing this song may help you prepare your heart for a new departure.

For this spring’s graduation, be sure to lend an ear to the beautiful melody Aimyon has crafted.

Kadode no Ippo (feat. CHICO CARLITO)ASOBOiSM

ASOBOiSM / The First Step of KADODE feat. CHICO CARLITO

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

【Graduation】Spring Sky – Suzuki Suzuki【Official Music Video】

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.