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 accompany the graduation season (11–20)
On the Day of Departure
Many of you might find that this song brings back memories of your own graduation ceremony.
Since its release, it has been a staple performed at graduation ceremonies across the country.
The song originally came from a junior high school in Saitama Prefecture.
From there, it spread through the local community, caught the attention of a composer, was featured in a music magazine, and in the late 1990s it gained nationwide popularity.
It really does put you in a nostalgic mood, doesn’t it? It’s a masterpiece that will surely continue to be sung for years to come.
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.
BoyhoodInoue Yosui
The moment that beautifully wistful piano intro begins, a flood of nostalgic scenes unfolds before your eyes—this is one of those timeless classics.
Released as a single by Yosui Inoue in September 1990, it was written as the theme song for the film “Childhood Days.” Though it portrays the melancholy of summer fading away, its universal nostalgia transcends seasons and resonates deeply during times of graduation and farewell as well.
In 1991, it also drew attention as the song used in Sony’s “Handycam” commercial, and over a long period after its release, it achieved million-seller status.
The world woven by its beautiful Japanese lyrics and melody is irresistible for adults who find themselves looking back on their youth.
It’s a standard number I hope those embarking on new beginnings will listen to, alongside memories that never fade.
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.
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.
