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

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.

sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)SEKAI NO OWARI

Sakanaction “Sazanka”

This is a powerful cheer from SEKAI NO OWARI for everyone chasing their dreams.

Released as a single in February 2018, it was chosen as NHK’s theme song for broadcasts of the PyeongChang Olympics and Paralympics that same year.

Set to a beautiful melody woven by piano and strings, the lyrics are written from the perspective of a quiet presence watching over someone who keeps getting back up no matter how many times they fall.

The message affirms the days of earnest effort—like a winter flower that blooms with poise amid hardship—and resonates deeply.

It’s a perfect song for those reaching the milestone of graduation and about to take their first new step.

We’re foreverKOGYARU

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.

IchibanboshiSnow Man

Snow Man “Ichibanboshi” Rec Video

If you’re looking for the perfect song for graduation season, check out the B-side included on the regular edition of Snow Man’s sixth single, “Brother Beat.” Released in March 2022, this track is a message song that portrays moving forward while squarely facing one’s doubts and vulnerabilities.

Unlike flashy dance tunes, it’s a mid-tempo number that focuses on delivering the lyrics with care, featuring a warm relay of vocals from all nine members that feels like they’re speaking directly to you.

It depicts the process of regaining faith in yourself even on nights when you feel like breaking down, leaving you with a sense of calm and renewal after listening.

It’s the kind of uplifting song that doesn’t push you from behind but rather stays by your side—perfect for those who need the courage to take a new step or want to reflect on days spent with friends.

See you again.THE FRANK VOX

THE FRANK VOX – Let's Meet Again [Music Video]

The four-member male vocal group THE FRANK VOX from the Kansai region released a song in January 2025 that marks their first-ever graduation track.

It resonates with a heartfelt message that not only captures the poignancy of parting, but also carries hope for future reunions.

Centered on their signature harmonies and call-and-response style, the warm, comforting sound is imbued with the wish that the song might become a “bookmark” for cherished moments.

Released as a pre-distribution single from the album VOX BOX 2, the track was also selected as the ending theme for ABC TV’s Bukatsu People: Zenryoku Ouen Bukapi! and the TBS/MBS network show Prebat!!.

It’s recommended for those struggling to choose music for graduation ceremonies or farewell gatherings, and for anyone seeking the perfect song to send off someone embarking on a new chapter.

Run Through the MemoriesMy Hair is Bad

My Hair is Bad – Dash Through the Memories

A ballad by My Hair is Bad filled with a warm message of gratitude to friends who shared irreplaceable time together, and of turning even painful experiences into strength for the future.

The sincere words penned by vocalist Tomohito Shiiki affirm the days that have passed in their entirety and give you the courage to take a new step forward.

Released in June 2024, the song also drew attention for being written as the theme for the film Crayon Shin-chan: Our Dinosaur Diary.

It’s an important track that closes out the album ghosts, featuring a grand band sound worthy of a story’s end credits.

It’s a song that gently supports graduates as they etch their memories into their hearts and move on toward tomorrow—why not listen to it together with your cherished friends?

orangeMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Orange [LIVE from Zenjin Mito to Weltraum ~Meimei Edition~]

Now that we’re adults, we can finally embrace our past selves.

This perspective resonates deeply in this number by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE.

Featured on the album “ANTENNA,” released in July 2023, the song stands out for its lyrics that look back on youthful days.

Its message—affirming everything as a treasure, from the nights we cried to the days we laughed together—truly moves the heart.

In August 2024, it was also chosen as the theme song for an Asahi Kasei Real Estate Residence commercial, reaching an even wider audience.

It’s a track that will resonate not only with those approaching graduation, but also with anyone for whom school days are already a distant memory.