Still packed with timeless classics! A roundup of 1970s Japanese graduation songs
As graduation season approaches, do you ever find yourself wanting to listen to old songs for some reason? Japanese music from the 1970s is full of classics about partings and new beginnings.
Chats with friends, tender first loves, and the mix of excitement and anxiety about the road ahead—songs from that era delicately weave together the complex emotions of youth.
In this article, we’re introducing 70s tracks perfect for graduation season.
We’ve picked a wide range, from songs directly about graduation to pieces that evoke the coming of spring and the brilliance of youth.
Let the nostalgic melodies wash over you as you gently trace back your memories of those days.
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Still packed with timeless classics! A roundup of Japanese graduation songs from the 1970s (41–50)
GraduationKurata Mariko
Since Mariko Kurata is currently retired, her songs are rarely broadcast on TV, but as the title suggests, this is a song about graduation.
Its lyrics—expressing the enduring feelings for friends and the sadness of facing graduation—took the 1970s by storm as a quintessential graduation song.
the first strong spring windkyandīzu
The songs by Candies have a refreshing atmosphere that evokes the arrival of spring, which is part of their charm.
The lyrics convey the warmth brought by the spring breeze and the anticipation of new encounters.
This song was released on March 1, 1976 as their ninth single, and it quickly became a major hit.
It was also performed at that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, making it an important track that cemented Candies’ status as idols.
It’s the perfect song for those who want to feel the coming of spring or who, through the major spring event of graduation, are looking forward to new encounters and romance.
In a distant worldItsutsu no akai fūsen
They’re a folk group that debuted in the 1970s.
The lyrics are addressed to young people setting out on a journey, encouraging them with a message like: “Young people living on the small star called Earth, let’s go search for the world of tomorrow.” It’s an uplifting anthem perfect as a send-off song for graduation.
GraduationAsaoka Megumi
She was one of the iconic idols of the ’70s.
Her looks and style were outstanding, and her cute stage outfits were envied by her contemporary, Masako Mori.
“Sotsugyo,” released in 1976, is a song about graduating from a relationship with the man she was dating.
What’s noteworthy is the phrase “katami ni,” but based on the lyrics, it doesn’t mean that the other person has passed away.
I want to go far away.Duke Aces
A masterpiece born in the 1970s is still sung today as a graduation song.
This work by Duke Aces is a gem that depicts setting off for an unfamiliar town.
Eiji Yoko’s lyrics and Hachidai Nakamura’s composition blend beautifully, giving you the courage to take a new step forward.
The album “60th Anniversary Edition CD,” which also includes the 1992 re-recorded version, is a must-listen.
Used as the theme song for the TV program “Tooku e Ikitai” (I Want to Go Far Away), it has become a song that remains in many people’s hearts.
It’s recommended not only for graduation ceremonies but also as a track that gives you a push before leaping into a new environment.
cherry blossom blizzardchiaki naomi
You’re graduating and leaving, I’m closing up shop and heading back to my hometown… It’s a sad farewell, yet somehow it carries a certain warmth.
Known for hits like “Kassai” and “Aka Tombo,” and also active as an actress, this is a song by Naomi Chiaki, released in 1975 as her 19th single.
Chiaki’s free, slightly husky vocals are irresistible.
It feels as if the words slip straight into your heart.
The lyrics are another charm, making you feel like you’re watching the final scene of a drama.
A town you stopped visiting much after graduating—don’t you have one of those, too?
To say goodbyebiriibanban
Released in 1972, Billy BanBan’s signature work is a classic that portrays lost love and determination for the future.
Widely known as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “3-chome 4-banchi,” it also marked the duo’s first appearance at the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen (the 23rd edition).
While it incorporates elements of folk music, it also retains the charm of Japanese kayōkyoku, creating a distinctive style.
The lyrics, imbued with the sorrow of parting and the courage to take a new step, are sure to resonate deeply with students approaching graduation.
This song is perfect for those who cherish their past memories yet are ready to look ahead and move forward.