[2026] Graduation Songs That Move People in Their 20s

Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (Solo)

Naotaro Moriyama’s “Sakura (Dokusho)” touches many hearts with its gentle melody and deeply moving lyrics.

Composed to celebrate a friend’s wedding, the song is also a perfect fit for graduation ceremonies, powerfully evoking the emotions of parting and new beginnings.

Even in 2018, it continues to be sung at graduation milestones, which I believe speaks to its universality and lyrical strength.

It’s also striking that, despite the solo version not being included on his debut album, the song has become so familiar to so many people.

Conveying a warm, heartfelt message, “Sakura (Dokusho)” is an unforgettable graduation song for many in their twenties.

Blue BenchSasuke

Blue Bench / Sasuke

As a song that captures the ache of unrequited love, it resonates with many listeners.

It portrays regret and longing for a lost love, contrasting beautiful memories of the past with the melancholy of the present.

Through memories at the station, along the tree-lined avenue, and on the symbolic “bench,” the protagonist’s deep emotions are expressed.

Released in April 2004 as Sasuke’s debut single, it became an extraordinary hit despite being an indie release.

Spreading by word of mouth, it has remained a beloved song over time.

It’s a track you’ll want to hear during graduation and farewell seasons, recommended for those who wish to look back on past romances.

On the Day of Departure

[Chorus Song] On the Day of Departure / With Lyrics / Singing Practice / Graduation Song #chorus #classchorus #graduationsong #choruscontest

Many of you might say this song reminds you of your own graduation ceremony.

Since its release, it has been the standard of all standards, sung at graduation ceremonies across the country.

The song was originally born at a junior high school in Saitama Prefecture.

From there, it spread through the local area, caught the attention of a composer, was featured in a music magazine, and in the late ’90s it gained popularity nationwide.

It inevitably makes you feel nostalgic, doesn’t it? It’s a classic that will surely be sung for generations to come—a staple song for graduation scenes.

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Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Thank You”

This is a song by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS that expresses gratitude as straightforwardly as possible.

Its warm melody, which gently envelops the listener’s heart, is also memorable, and it continues to be loved as a track that prompts us to reflect on our feelings for those who have supported us.

Released in February 2013, the song was chosen as the theme for MBS and GAORA’s broadcast of the 85th Senbatsu High School Baseball Tournament, as well as for Nippon TV’s “Akamru! Scoop Koshien.” The music video features Sanma Akashiya, which drew significant attention.

It’s a song to play when you want to convey your gratitude to someone important or to mark a milestone in life.

AgainWANIMA

WANIMA “Again” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

This is a powerful message song by WANIMA that passionately sings of second chances and hope.

The protagonist’s strong will to face forward after overcoming failure and setbacks resonates with an energetic melody.

Included on the single “Good Job!!,” released in March 2019, and used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Maison de Police,” the track expresses the resolve to rise again despite carrying past pain and regret, as well as the courage to believe in oneself and move forward.

It’s a perfect song for those looking back on both the good and tough times of their school days and trying to lift their heads and keep going.