[Graduation Songs of the 2000s] Japanese Music That Colors the Season of Departure
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.
- Heisei-era graduation songs roundup: iconic youth anthems from the ’90s to the 2010s
- [2026] A Collection of Memorable Graduation Songs from the 40s [Japanese Music]
- Graduation Songs for Those in Their 30s: Nostalgic Classics That Rekindle Emotions & Timeless Favorites Still Popular Today
- A graduation song released in the 1990s. A memorable classic that accompanies the graduation season.
- [2026] A Collection of Youthful Songs to Play at Graduation Ceremonies [J-POP]
- [Graduation Songs] Choral pieces perfect for singing at elementary school graduation ceremonies: A collection of moving classics
- [Moving] Heartfelt Japanese Songs Recommended for Graduation Season [2026]
- Top Female Singer-Songwriters and Popular Songs of the 2000s [2026]
- [2026] Modern graduation songs: Reiwa-era staples and new tracks you should know
- Memories come flooding back! Graduation songs recommended for the Yutori generation
- [2026] Graduation Songs That Move People in Their 20s
- [Great Lyrics!!] Recommended Tear-Jerking Graduation Songs with Heartfelt, Moving Words [2026]
- A Collection of Moving Graduation Songs You’ll Want to Sing at Karaoke! [Farewells, Friendship, and Fight Songs]
[Graduation Songs of the 2000s] Japanese Tracks Coloring the Season of Departure (41–50)
SAKURA GoodbyeSCANDAL
A number that became one of SCANDAL’s signature early works, beautifully capturing both the bittersweetness and freshness that accompany graduation scenes.
Its message, told from a true-to-life perspective, carries a power that evokes universal empathy.
The song had existed since the band’s formation and drew attention when it was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s variety show “Mecha-Mecha Iketeru!” Its up-tempo rock sound and the sense of parting—and anticipation for a new journey—set against the season of cherry blossoms are sure to resonate as spring arrives.
It can be called a gem of a pop tune that colors a page of youth, perfect for listening to at life’s important milestones.
Until the day we meet againyuzu
A pop-spirited graduation song by Yuzu that lets you greet the moment of departure with a smile.
Released in 2002 as their 14th single, it was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Doraemon.
It’s very popular as an elementary school graduation song and is reportedly still sung at graduation ceremonies today.
It’s also easy for bands to cover, so it’s a great pick for a graduation live performance!
GraduaterShiina Hekiru
Known for its powerful vocals and uplifting message that champions youth, this is a must-have fan favorite at Hekiru Shiina’s live shows.
It vividly portrays the protagonist’s feelings as they cherish bonds with friends and companions while stepping forward toward their own future.
Even when faced with setbacks and doubts, the unwavering will to keep looking ahead and fighting on resonates deeply, carried by a passionate melody.
Since its release in January 1998, it has been widely supported by fans and was included on the album “Baby Blue Eyes.” The guitar work featuring DAITA from SIAM SHADE further enhances the song’s appeal.
It’s a highly recommended track for anyone about to take a new step or for those who want to cheer on someone striving toward their dreams.
Song of DepartureAAA
AAA’s 20th single, “Tabidachi no Uta,” released in 2009.
This ballad sings of parting and setting off on a new journey; it can be heard as a graduation song and, in terms of its lyrics, as a love song as well.
It portrays saying goodbye to someone important and taking that first step forward, something graduates will likely feel very personally.
Even if we part here, we’ll meet again—the anticipation of the next time we see each other, the hope to reminisce after a few years, and the resolve to do our best until then.
That’s the kind of feeling it conveys.
Cherry blossom petalsAKB48
AKB48’s debut single is a perfect song for graduation season.
While depicting the scene of cherry blossoms fluttering, it expresses both the sorrow of parting with friends and the determination to take a new step forward.
It’s a ballad distinguished by piano and strings, with a melody that resonates deeply and lingers in the listener’s heart.
Released in February 2006, it debuted at No.
10 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It was also chosen as the theme song for a late-night TBS drama, which rapidly boosted its recognition.
Often sung at graduation ceremonies and farewell occasions, this is a song we hope those embarking on a new chapter will listen to.
GraduationCharcoal Filter
Charcoal Filter’s “Sotsugyo” (Graduation) expresses feelings about graduation and setting off on a new journey in a straightforward way.
Graduation overflows with many emotions: the sorrow of parting from friends you’ve walked with until now, the sense of accomplishment from all your hard work, and the excitement and anxiety of heading to a new place.
This song makes you feel that it’s okay to carry all those feelings with you and keep moving forward just as you are.
It inspires you to gain lots of experiences on your own path so that when you meet again, you’ll have plenty to talk about.
GOOD BYE MY SCHOOL DAYSDREAMS COME TRUE
GOOD BYE MY SCHOOL DAYS by DREAMS COME TRUE, released in 2009.
As the title suggests, it’s a song about graduation, and there are versions sung by Oreskaband, FUZZY CONTROL, and Mikako Tabe.
It’s very DCT—fresh and uplifting, yet with a poignant ache that catches up with you afterward.
As a song that captures the feelings of graduates, it’s a graduation tune many can surely relate to.
It’s one I recommend listening to on the very day of the ceremony.