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

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE

EXILE / Road

This is the 23rd single by EXILE, a dance and vocal group beloved across generations for their dynamic performances and emotionally resonant vocals.

Released in February 2007, the song is a grand ballad themed around graduation and new departures.

It topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and became the 1,000th song in the chart’s history to reach number one, marking a milestone release.

It was also used as the opening theme for the music variety show “Ongaku Senshi MUSIC FIGHTER,” and is familiar as the approach melody at Keikyu Kanazawa-hakkei Station.

The lyrics, which weave together gratitude for the days spent together and the resolve to step into each person’s future, evoke both the sorrow of parting and a sense of hope.

A choral version is included as well, making it a perfect choice for those who want to sing together with friends at graduation ceremonies.

CorrectRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Live Video from “ANTI ANTI GENERATION TOUR 2019”]

RADWIMPS is a four-piece rock band whose name is a coined word meaning “a cool coward” or “a splendid weakling.” The song Seikai (Right Answer), which closes their ninth studio album ANTI ANTI GENERATION, was written for NHK’s event “18-fes.” Its lyrics—about important things you don’t learn at school and the resolve to keep searching for them—are likely to resonate with people on the verge of graduation.

Featuring a piano-led, lyrical ensemble that pierces the heart, it’s a contemporary graduation song.

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Hoshino Takashi

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OrangeSPYAIR

SPYAIR “Orange” Music Video (Theme Song for Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle: The Movie)

SPYAIR’s songs, with their heartwarming messages and moving melodies, have captivated many listeners.

This work centers on meetings, bonds, and farewells within limited time.

It conveys the importance of not saying goodbye, holding onto the hope of meeting again, and continuing to move forward while carrying big dreams.

It also drew attention for being chosen as the theme song for the feature film Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle, released in February 2024.

It’s perfect not only as a club-activity anthem but also as a graduation song.

The track supports many listeners by conveying the importance of always facing forward and moving ahead—so please take this opportunity to give it a listen.

We’re foreverNEW!KOGYARU

KOGYARU / We Forever [Official Music Video]

KOGYARU is a music project that’s drawn attention with the novel concept of “elementary-school gyaru,” captivating fans with genuinely skilled rap.

Their ninth original track, “Uchira Forever,” released in February 2026, is an emotional number with lyrics penned by producer Yayoi Daimon.

Created as a tribute to a member graduating from the group, the lyrics look back on their journey and memories so far, brimming with a powerful message that their bond won’t fade even as they go their separate ways.

The climactic section, where all 14 members’ voices join in chorus, is sure to tug at listeners’ heartstrings.

It’s a warm graduation song that encourages you to overcome loneliness and step forward into a new future.

March 9Remioromen

Remioromen – March 9

A heartwarming number that vividly brings back memories of graduation ceremonies.

Wrapped in a gentle melody and warm vocals, you feel both the parting from dear friends and the excitement of a new beginning welling up inside.

Released in March 2004, this song has remained beloved by younger generations even in the Reiwa era and continues to stand by people’s hearts as a classic graduation song.

The powerful chorus feels like a gentle push on graduates’ backs.

It’s perfect not only for graduation ceremonies but for anyone taking a new step in life.

Listen to it with someone special, and it will surely become a treasured memory.

Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46

The Only One Who Knows Is the Graduation Photo by Hinatazaka46

Hinatazaka46’s 13th single, released in January 2025.

Set to a bittersweet yet refreshing melody, the song portrays the feelings hidden within graduation photos.

Its lyrics—evoking the wistfulness of cherry blossom season and the regret of a love left unconfessed—resonate as symbols of youth’s end and a new beginning.

The music video, themed around a “parade that heralds spring,” is crafted with a vivid, colorful vision.

Centered on Nao Kosaka, the members’ expressive vocals and performances leave a strong impression.

It’s a recommended track not only for students nearing graduation, but also for anyone wishing to look back on nostalgic memories.

Heralding springyama

yama – Harbinger of Spring (Official Video)

A song released in April 2020.

Its lyrics portray the loneliness and sense of loss of city life, entwined with a wistful yet beautiful melody that resonates deeply with listeners.

Yama’s androgynous, husky voice further enhances the song’s worldview.

With over 300 million streams, it’s loved by many listeners.

It’s often played at milestones like graduation ceremonies, making it a track that closely accompanies the hearts of the younger generation.

Perfect for moments when you want to feel the start of a new season or when you’re facing a turning point in life.