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!
- 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]
- [80s Graduation Songs] Nostalgic Classics & Hits That Have Become Standards
- [Showa-Era Graduation Songs] Nostalgic? Emotive? A curated selection of timeless classics loved across generations
- [Graduation Songs of the 2000s] Japanese Music That Colors the Season of Departure
- [Graduation Songs] Choral pieces perfect for singing at elementary school graduation ceremonies: A collection of moving classics
- Tear-jerking J-pop from the ’90s. Hit songs and real tearjerkers.
- A coming-of-age song that was a hit in the ’90s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.
- Tear-jerking classic graduation songs! Recommended tracks for graduation movie BGM
- They’ll give your new beginning a boost! Enrollment songs released in the Heisei era
- [For Graduates] Graduation Songs and Cheer Anthems to Convey Gratitude and Support
- Classic and hit J-pop songs from the nostalgic ’90s
- [Graduation Songs] Tear-Jerking, Heartwarming Ballads | A Showcase of Classics and the Newest Hits!
Graduation songs released in the 1990s: memorable classics that accompany the graduation season (21–30)
Born on this planetSugimoto Ryuichi
A staple choral number written and composed by Ryuichi Sugimoto, beloved as the ending theme of NHK’s nature documentary program “Ikimono Chikyū Kikō” (Nature Walks on Earth).
Released in August 1996 as part of the soundtrack album, this piece features a melody that resonates deeply, enveloping grand themes such as the Earth and life itself.
The lyrics, which align with the sweeping sense of scale conveyed by the program’s visuals, are abstract yet generously open to each listener’s own interpretation.
Multiple choral arrangements exist—including equal-voice two-part and mixed chorus—and its continued presence at elementary and junior high school graduation ceremonies further speaks to its appeal.
It’s a heartwarming song that’s perfect for those who want to sing with hope for the future during the season of departures, or for anyone seeking a piece that can be shared across generations.
Bye For NowT-BOLAN
T-BOLAN is a four-piece rock band that enjoyed immense popularity in the 1990s as a leading act of the Being label.
Although they disbanded once, they resumed activities in 2017.
Their 6th single, “Bye For Now,” which was used as the theme song for the TV drama Woman Dream, was written for a staff member at the time who had decided to go abroad.
The lyrics, which vow that even if you part ways now you will surely meet again, perfectly capture the message you’d want to promise friends at a graduation ceremony.
Thanks to its long-running success, the song became a million seller—a rock ballad that portrays a positive farewell scene.
Hello, Again ~A Place That’s Been Around Since Long Ago~My Little Lover
Known by the nickname “Maira-ba,” My Little Lover is a music unit that now operates as the solo project of vocalist akko.
Their third single, “Hello, Again ~A Place That’s Always Been~,” used as the theme song for the TV drama Never-ending Summer, is a track that continues to be covered by many artists today.
Its lyrics, which teach us that the everyday life we took for granted can slip away with graduation—and that those memories can become the energy to take our next steps—may help you greet a graduation ceremony with a positive spirit.
With its lyrical yet catchy melody, it’s a beautiful pop tune that has also become a karaoke staple.
cherry blossomKawamoto Makoto
Makoto Kawamoto is a singer-songwriter.
The piece she created with graduation as its theme is Sakura.
Its lyrics depict students gazing at cherry blossoms as they look back on their memories and pledge unchanging friendship.
The content resonates with a wide range of generations, making it perfect to listen to with friends or as a parent and child.
The melody is piano-centered, giving it a delicate yet beautiful atmosphere.
Wouldn’t it be perfect to perform at graduation ceremonies or farewell parties?
Spring ~spring~Hysteric Blue
Hysteric Blue’s song “Haru ~spring~,” which colored the graduation season of the ’90s, remains a classic that still sounds fresh today.
Its lyrics, depicting the determination to keep chasing dreams that overflow during the milestone of graduation, resonate deeply with graduates.
The song became widely known after being used as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “Mokugeki! Dokyun,” and its dynamic melody conveys a refreshing springlike feel.
Even as time passes since its release, it continues to be loved by many as a track that beautifully adorns the graduation moment, brimming with dreams and hope.