[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)
Words of FarewellFLOW
This is a classic song, an arrangement of Kaientai’s signature track with a fiery rock sound.
FLOW’s powerful vocals and dynamic performance strongly support both farewells and new beginnings.
Released in 2006, it has long been loved as a staple for the graduation season.
The lyrics convey compassion for those who are leaving and hope for the future, offering the courage to take a new step even as you feel the sadness of parting.
Listen to it at graduations or farewell parties, and it’s sure to resonate deeply in your heart.
[2000s Graduation Songs] Japanese Tracks Coloring the Season of Departure (51–60)
cherry blossomFUNKY MONKEY BABYS
Set against a flurry of falling cherry blossom petals, this song celebrates the bond between two people and their hopes for the future.
With cherry blossoms symbolizing a fresh start as the backdrop, it conveys gratitude to a loved one and a steadfast resolve to protect them.
The warm vocals of FUNKY MONKEY BABYS and the heartfelt melody are sure to stir listeners’ emotions.
Released in 2009, the track was also used as the theme song for NTV’s Yokohama International Women’s Ekiden, winning over many hearts.
It’s especially recommended for times of new beginnings—graduations, school admissions, starting a job—when you need the courage to step forward with someone important by your side.
far; distant; by farGReeeeN
GReeeeN is a four-man vocal group whose name was chosen to mean “still incomplete, with endless unknown potential.” Their 11th single, Haruka—released as a lead single from their third album, Shio, Kosho—was used as the theme song for the film ROOKIES: Graduation.
The arrangement, featuring piano and strings, has a beauty and delicacy that colors the moment of parting at graduation.
It’s a quintessential 2000s graduation song that gives a gentle push toward a new future.
Graduation, and on to the future.MONKEY MAJIK＋SEAMO
A refreshing song that accompanies the graduation season! Born from a collaboration between MONKEY MAJIK and SEAMO, this piece carries a message that views farewells and new beginnings in a positive light.
Released in March 2007, the track has been widely used at graduation ceremonies and school-related events, resonating with many people.
With its distinctive blend of pop rock and hip-hop, it skillfully expresses gratitude for the past and hope for the future.
It’s a perfect song not only for students about to graduate, but also for anyone ready to take a new step in life!
SAKURAikimonogakari
Set in the season when cherry blossoms dance on the breeze, this song gently embraces moments of parting and new encounters.
Released in March 2006 as Ikimono-gakari’s debut single, it features a melody that tenderly accompanies the heart with the arrival of spring.
The lyrics, interwoven with scenes from their hometown, portray both the lingering attachment to days gone by and the courage to take a new step forward.
It was also used in an NTT East Japan commercial, resonating with many listeners.
A perfect track for graduations and farewell gatherings.
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
When it comes to Yuzu’s graduation songs, this one is the classic: “Eikou no Kakehashi” (Bridge of Glory).
The lyrics describe pressing forward through various hardships and how that effort becomes a source of confidence for the new life ahead—making it perfect for a graduation ceremony.
It’s a moving song that makes it hard to hold back tears when you sing it while reflecting on your school days.
Many people probably remember shedding a tear to it.
It remains one of the most beloved graduation songs across generations.
Take a trip down memory lane and give it another listen!
Letter ~To You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki
A classic graduation song in which the lyrics are a letter from your 15-year-old self to your future self—and a reply from your future self back to your 15-year-old self.
It was released in 2008 and was also chosen as the required piece for the NHK School Choir Competition (N-Con) junior high division that year.
If you were a junior high student then—especially in your third year—you probably sang it at least once.
You might not have fully grasped the message of the lyrics back then, but as an adult, many of us feel “there’s so much I want to tell my 15-year-old self.” It’s a song that tightens your chest as you listen.
