A graduation song released in the 1990s. A memorable classic that accompanies the graduation season.
On your graduation day, was there a song you softly hummed while reluctantly saying goodbye to your friends?The 1990s were the era when CDs sold the most in Japan and the concept of J-POP truly took shape, giving rise to countless classic hits that everyone knew.
Naturally, many iconic graduation songs were born as well, leaving a deep impression on the students of that time.From timeless graduation staples that evoke the atmosphere of those days, to songs perfect for the graduation season, and even hidden gems known only to a few, this article delivers a rich selection of graduation songs released in the 1990s.Whether you’re embarking on a new chapter with the arrival of spring, feeling a sudden urge to look back on your youth, or part of a younger generation curious about ’90s music, be sure to check it out!
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Graduation songs released in the 1990s. Memorable classics that resonate with the graduation season (1–10)
COSMOSMimas
This work captivates with lyrics that overlay the vast universe with one’s own existence, evoking a gentle, warming light.
It’s a single released by the music duo Aquamarine in April 1999, marking their major-label debut.
Also known as the theme song for “Star Week,” it is included on the album TALES OF STARS.
Written and composed by Mimasu, the song was later arranged by Yutaka Tomizawa into a choral piece and has since become a graduation staple beloved by schools across Japan.
Many people likely recall singing it in unison with friends as they set out from the classroom into the wider world.
It’s a classic that you’ll want to listen to in spring, at the start of new beginnings, while gazing up at the night sky.
I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu
This is “Sora mo Toberu Hazu” (“You Should Be Able to Fly in the Sky”) sung by the four-piece rock band Spitz.
Released in 1994, it was used as the theme song for the drama “Hakusen Nagashi” and went on to sell over a million copies.
It’s a timeless masterpiece we want to pass down to future generations—a classic graduation song even today.
Masamune Kusano’s vocals are endlessly gentle.
While his voice also shines in intense or up-tempo tracks, songs with this kind of calm atmosphere are incredibly soothing.
Spitz’s music will never fade.
To the futureKiroro
Kiroro, famous as a ’90s artist known for great lyrics, has a perfect song for graduation season: “Mirai e” (“To the Future”).
As the title suggests, it’s an uplifting anthem that gives a gentle push to those taking a step toward the future.
The sound blends the lead melody sung by vocalist Chiharu Tamashiro with Ayano Kinjo’s piano-backed harmonies, evoking an organic ’90s vibe.
Why not take a break from today’s pop music, which often leans digital, and let yourself sink into a more natural sound for a change?
Graduation songs released in the 1990s: memorable classics that accompany the graduation season (11–20)
Tracks of HopeSazan Ōrusutāzu
Just hearing the lively piano phrase in the intro may wrap many listeners in a thrilling sense of uplift.
The worldview depicting a road where one runs toward their dreams and the seaside scenery of one’s hometown gives you the courage to look forward while feeling nostalgic for the past.
Created by Southern All Stars as a song featured in the film Inamura Jane, released in September 1990, the piece has continued to be beloved over the years, later serving as the theme for Fuji TV’s 27-Hour Television and as an insert song for the drama My Only Madonna.
It’s also a staple at live shows that unites the entire venue.
In the graduation season, when anxiety and anticipation intertwine, this truly hopeful anthem gives a powerful push to those taking their first steps into something new.
Spread your wingsDEEN
With its refreshing melody and Shuichi Ikemori’s crystal-clear vocals, this classic gently gives you a push as you take off into a new world.
Known as well for lyrics by Izumi Sakai and composition by Tetsuro Oda, its worldview brims with hope and a sense of liberation as you set your sights on your dreams—perfect for graduation season.
Released in July 1993 as their second single, it also became familiar to households as the image song for Nippon TV’s soccer broadcasts.
It peaked at No.
5 on the weekly charts and was later included in high school music textbooks, showing how beloved it is across generations.
In spring, when anxiety and anticipation mingle, listening to it when you need courage will surely help your heart spread its wings wide.
The Blue AgeKinKi Kids
Featured as the ending theme for a TBS drama starring Tsuyoshi Domoto, this song is a ballad distinguished by its piano-centered, beautiful melody.
Its lyrics, depicting the unique pain and inner conflicts of youth along with hope for the future, resonate deeply with listeners.
The structure—where the two members of KinKi Kids have no solo parts throughout and sing in harmony and unison—accentuates the song’s poignancy.
Included on their fourth single released in July 1998, it is also known for achieving million-seller status.
The lyrical worldview crafted by canna seems to align perfectly with farewells and departures during graduation season.
It carries a warmth that comforts the anxieties and loneliness of growing up, making it a classic you’ll want to hear when you feel like reflecting on your youth.
TOMORROWMayo Okamoto
When it comes to the definitive cheer song that has encouraged people all across Japan, it has to be this one.
Singer-songwriter Mayo Okamoto released it as her debut single in May 1995, and it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Second Chance,” becoming a massive hit with sales of about 1.77 million copies.
Its uplifting lyrics, which speak of growing stronger beyond tears, and its bouncy piano melody are unforgettable.
It’s also well known that during production, the tempo was sped up at the request of the drama’s team.
While it wasn’t originally a graduation song, this track gently gives you courage in the springtime, when anxiety and hope mingle.
Why not listen to it while putting your arm around a friend setting off into a new world—or to spur yourself on? It’s a timeless classic that never loses its shine.