A lovely graduation song

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

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

Last updated:2026/1/7

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 to the days of youthTHE Inazuma Sentai

Farewell to the days of youth

Farewell to the days of youthTHE Inazuma Sentai

A powerful rock ballad that passionately sings of the ache of days that won’t return and the hope for the future.

It was included on a single released by THE Inazuma Sentai in November 2006.

This song was also used as the ending theme for the TV anime Silver Olinssis.

Loved for many years as a number that symbolizes the band’s lyrical side, it conveys a message of saying farewell to the past and stepping into the unknown, giving a strong push to those facing graduation.

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futureMr.Children

Mr.Children “Mirai” Music Video

futureMr.Children

Mr.Children has continued to color Japan’s music scene with numerous classic songs.

Among their catalog, this enduring fan favorite appears as the first track on the single “Yon-jigen Four Dimensions,” released in June 2005.

Many people may remember it from the Pocari Sweat commercial featuring Haruka Ayase, where the imagery evoked the sparkle of youth.

With its refreshing chorus melody and lyrics about moving forward despite inner conflict with the present, it’s a perfect fit for the milestone of graduation.

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Endless road19

19 (Juke) "Endless Road"

Endless road19

A classic song by the folk duo 19 that’s essential for the season of departures.

Released in April 2000 as their fourth single, it became widely known as the theme for Lotte’s “Fratte” commercial.

The song rides on a brisk, driving melody to express both the anxiety of stepping into an unknown world and the strong resolve to keep moving forward.

It’s the kind of track that naturally gives you courage when you listen to it while leaving your hometown for the big city.

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In the Morning of DeterminationAqua Timez

Aqua Timez 'Ketsui no Asa ni' Music Video (Theme song of the film 'Brave Story')

In the Morning of DeterminationAqua Timez

A ballad by Aqua Timez whose message—moving forward by accepting your unadorned, honest weaknesses—strikes a chord.

Released in July 2006, their major-label debut single “Ketsui no Asa ni” is also well known as the theme song for the animated film Brave Story.

Many listeners have found solace in its deeply human message: it’s okay to have a clumsy, uniquely your own dream, and it’s okay to speak up honestly when times are tough.

For graduates about to leap into a new world, anxiety and inner conflict are inevitable, but this song affirms your true, unvarnished self.

You don’t have to be perfect—just keep walking in your own way.

It’s a song that’s sure to give you courage.

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Song of Springsupittsu

Spitz / Spring Song

Song of Springsupittsu

The sense of emotional wavering unique to the period when winter gives way to spring, along with a liberating feeling that gently embraces the urge to move forward, resonates in the heart with a refreshing sound.

This work is the 30th single, released in April 2005, and it also served as the opening track of the album “Souvenir.” Many will remember it as the song used in the “Aquarius” commercial.

It carries a gentle warmth that softly nudges listeners onward, making it perfect for the season of farewells and new beginnings, such as graduations or starting a new life.

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