[Departure] A Special Feature on Anime Songs to Hear at Graduation Ceremonies [Tearjerkers]

horizonYahagi Moeka

Moeka Yahagi – Horizon [Music Video]

A ballad written as the ending theme for the TV anime Sorairo Utility.

Moeka Yahagi handled both lyrics and composition; it was delivered in advance in January 2025 and released on CD in February of the same year.

While accompanying the story of girls who grow closer through golf, it conveys a strong resolve: “Even if they laugh or mock you, stay true to the path you believe in.” In creating the song, Yahagi focused on the moment in play when you inhale before taking a shot, translating into the lyrics the feeling of being able to center yourself in that instant, even while carrying pain.

The melody, blending warmth and wistfulness, is perfect for graduation ceremonies that mark a new first step.

It’s a song that gently supports anyone who wants to move forward in their own way despite feeling crushed by others’ eyes and judgments.

Et ceteraimase

[imase] Etcetera (MV)

Have you ever experienced missed connections in your youth or carried feelings you couldn’t put into words? This song by imase gently brings back those memories tucked away in the depths of your heart.

Released in August 2024, it was written as the opening theme for the Netflix anime series “Kimi ni Todoke: 3rd Season.” Centered on a warm piano refrain, its sound—woven from a dramatic melody and falsetto—strikes a delicate balance between poignancy and pop sensibility.

While resonating with the world of the show, it also possesses a universal appeal that overlaps with each listener’s own memories of youth.

It’s a track you’ll want to hear as graduation approaches and you look back on days with your friends—especially if those unspoken feelings from back then suddenly pass through your heart.

Recipe for HappinessHirai Dai

Hirai Dai “Recipe for Happiness” Anime MV | TV Anime “The Apothecary Diaries” Season 2 Ending Theme

This song was selected as the ending theme for Season 2 of the TV anime “The Apothecary Diaries.” Written and performed by singer-songwriter Dai Hirai, it was released on the same day the anime began airing in January 2025.

It’s a poignant medium-tempo tune that portrays the frustration of having feelings you want to convey but can’t get across, of wanting to get closer but being unable to.

What makes the piece truly outstanding is its perspective of affirming even bitterness and missed connections as “ingredients for happiness.” It’s perfect for the season of farewells.

The song was also featured on THE FIRST TAKE, where a special arrangement centered on Hirai’s solo guitar-and-vocal performance drew attention.

It’s a gentle companion for those who want to look forward while holding onto bittersweet memories—friends parting ways after graduation, relationships that never aligned, and more.

Wonderful World&TEAM

&TEAM ‘Wonderful World’ Focus Cam (방과후 ver.)

A track where refreshing piano tones and warm vocals spread out as if wrapping the sweet-and-sour feelings of youth.

Released in January 2025, this song by &TEAM was created as the ending theme for the TV anime Honey Lemon Soda.

Its message—that a once-lonely world gains color through meeting someone special and gives you the courage to take a step forward—resonates deeply.

Paired with the opening theme “Magic Hour,” it conveys the feeling of moving ahead while holding both the brightness and anxieties of adolescence.

It’s a number that reminds you, as you face graduation and step onto a new path, to feel gratitude for the friends and loved ones who stayed by your side.

It’s a song especially for those who want to savor the miracle of having met, rather than the sadness of parting.

Glimmering in incompletionoishikuru meronpan

Oishikuru Melonpan “Shining in Imperfection” Music Video

A song by Oisicle Melonpan that paints the hidden sparkle of those laid-back after-school hours with a breezy, country-tinged sound.

Released in June 2025, it was written as the opening theme for the TV anime “See You Tomorrow at the Food Court.” It marks the band’s first anime tie-in and celebrates the milestone of their 10th anniversary.

The lyrics strikingly feature the word “moratorium,” allowing the languor of a time when you’re not yet anyone to coexist with a glimmer that exists only in that moment.

Its message—embracing unfinished days in a positive light—may resonate with graduates stepping into a new world.

It’s a song that gently nudges you forward in a season where the anxiety and excitement of leaving school mingle together.

exceed; surpass; go beyond; cross (over)NEW![Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Transcend (MV) (Anime “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray” Season 1 Opening Theme)

It’s a track brimming with powerful energy that feels like breaking through your own limits.

Crafted by [Alexandros], who have delivered countless rock anthems, this song pairs tension and liberation to match the anime’s world, which follows the protagonist’s growth into a “monster,” and it really hits you in the chest.

Released in April 2025 as a pre-release single from the album “PROVOKE,” it was chosen as the opening theme for Season 1 of the TV anime “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray.” It also drew attention for dropping right after the broadcast began.

If you’re feeling anxious in a new environment or need to fire yourself up, listening to it is sure to give you courage.

Why not let this song spark that springtime urge to dash forward?

promisefurenzu

Friends “Promise” (TV anime Horimiya ending theme)

“Yakusoku” captivates with the warm tones of its guitar and Emi Okamoto’s crystal-clear vocals.

It was chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime Horimiya.

The lyrics trace a promise shared with a precious person who is now far away, painting the feelings that linger.

Delicate arrangements—piano, guitar, and layered chorus—gently accompany listeners as they set out on a new journey.

Its bittersweet yet forward-looking message makes it a perfect fit for the milestone of graduation.