A lovely graduation song

[Graduation Songs of the 2000s] Japanese Music That Colors the Season of Departure

A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerAraki Jakkan
I’ve worked in a variety of roles—regardless of pro or amateur settings—including live event PA, cameraman for video and photography, restaurant staff, and logistics center staff. I now spend my days as a part-time writer. I’ve contributed to music and manga websites with feature/review articles, and wrote the liner notes included as a bonus for 1st PLACE Inc.’s “IA SUPER BEST.” As for my music background, I started playing guitar in junior high and focused on band activities during my school years. For over 15 years since then, up to the present, I’ve continued releasing original tracks as a Vocaloid producer. My areas of expertise are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.
Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.

In this article, we’re spotlighting “graduation songs that were hits in the 2000s.” From singer-songwriters and rock bands to idol groups, we’ve gathered a wide range of tracks.

Graduation is a major milestone in life.

Many songs about graduation express swirling emotions with striking directness, leaving a deep impression on the heart.

Whether you graduated in the 2000s, have experienced various moments of “graduation” or “new departures,” or are about to graduate, be sure to listen and feel the emotions woven into these songs.

[2000s Graduation Songs] Japanese Music That Colors the Season of Departure (1–10)

Farewell, YouthChatto Monchī

Chatmonchy – Farewell, Youth – Zepp Osaka 2008

Farewell, YouthChatto Monchī

This song, which closes Chatmonchy’s major-label debut mini-album “chatmonchy has come,” released in November 2005, was also used as the CM song for Recruit Holdings’ “Sotsu-ome Project 2007.” The lyrics, which make the everyday commute to school and days spent in the classroom suddenly shine as graduation approaches, carry a heart-wrenching poignancy.

The sound, blending the loneliness of parting with anxiety about the future, is sure to resonate deeply not only with students about to set off on their next journey, but also with adults who feel nostalgic for their youth.

It’s a track that lets you rediscover the preciousness of ordinary days.

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rainbowFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Rainbow (Full ver.)

rainbowFukuyama Masaharu

It’s a rock tune that portrays the passion of youth and the pursuit of dreams.

Included on Masaharu Fukuyama’s single “Niji/Himawari/Sore ga Subete sa,” released in August 2003, it fired up living rooms across Japan as the theme song for the drama WATER BOYS.

It enjoyed five consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Oricon charts and has long been loved as a summer-defining hit.

Carrying the message of spreading out a map and moving toward the future, it’s a perfect fit for graduation season.

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Hope ~Yell~NEWS

NEWS – Hope ~Yell~ [Official Music Video]

Hope ~Yell~NEWS

This is a rousing anthem that sends a powerful cheer to those setting off for a new stage in life.

Released as a single in May 2004, it was used as the image song for the Athens Olympic Volleyball World Final Qualifiers on both TBS and Fuji TV.

Its positive message, singing of hope for the future, is perfect for the major milestone of graduation.

In this season when excitement and anxiety about a new life mix together, give it a listen when you want to spur yourself on.

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I believeayaka

Ayaka – I believe

I believeayaka

Released in February 2006 as her debut single, this celebrated ballad made a striking impact.

Ayaka’s powerful vocals sing about the importance of believing in oneself, carrying a warmth and strength that gently yet surely push listeners forward.

The song was used as the theme for the drama “Rondo,” starring Yutaka Takenouchi and Choi Ji-woo, and it quickly brought widespread attention to Ayaka, who was still a newcomer at the time.

It was later included on the album “First Message” and has continued to be loved for many years.

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windKobukuro

Kobukuro “Kaze”

windKobukuro

It’s the kind of song you find yourself humming on a spring morning when you can feel the season’s arrival.

Released by Kobukuro in February 2002, this track teaches us the value of facing forward while holding onto past seasons and precious memories.

Included on the album “grapefruits,” it was also beloved as the theme song for Fuji TV’s “Uchi Kuru!?” Not only does it capture the sadness of parting, but it also conveys the hope of growing through the turning seasons, making it a great recommendation for those graduating or anyone who wants to reflect on cherished days.

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