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 (31–40)
Endless JourneyMr.Children
Mr.Children, known for signature songs like “Seesaw Game ~Brave Love Song~,” “Nameless Poem,” and “A Gentle Song.” Their track “Owarinaki Tabi” (Endless Journey) features a striking guitar intro and is a perfect fit as a graduation song.
This mid-tempo piece gradually builds from a gently starting verse, leading to a chorus that feels like the path ahead opens up—its song structure is truly appealing.
The dramatic key change in the chorus also evokes a distinctly ’90s vibe, stirring a sense of nostalgia.
Tokyo StorySha ran Q
Sharam Q is a four-piece rock band centered around Tsunku♂, who is now making his mark as a producer.
Their 4th single, “Jo-Kyo Monogatari,” used as the theme song for the variety show Asakusa-bashi Young Yōhinten, is known as the track that helped bring the previously unknown Sharam Q into the spotlight.
The lyrics portray the heartache of parting from someone precious, and while it’s a love song, it also resonates with the farewells that come with graduation.
With its striking synth-driven intro, the song is catchy—fast-paced yet sentimental.
commemorative treeapppare gakuen seito ichidō
The choral piece “Kinenju” was released in 1992 by the entire student body of Appare Gakuen.
It’s a graduation song created as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s variety show “Appare Sanma Daishinsei.” Its lyrics—about recalling the commemorative tree planted on the school grounds and overcoming hardships and challenges you may face in the future—offer a unique worldview not found in other graduation songs, and are truly lovely.
Listening to the song’s clear, pure vocals naturally fills you with optimism!
SO YOUNGTHE YELLOW MONKEY
When it comes to graduation songs by The Yellow Monkey—aka Yemon—“SO YOUNG” is the one that comes to mind! It’s included on the 1999 album SO ALIVE.
It’s a song that affirms everything, saying, “Because there was a youth that went off course—because there was a past—there’s the me of today.” I want you to listen to it when you’re stuck looking back with regret, or even envy, and can’t focus on the present.
Its mellow melodies and band sound, reminiscent of British rock of the time, fit the theme perfectly and really sink in.
It’s a track whose brilliance reveals itself more and more as you grow older.
BeginningChekikko
Released in March 1999, Cheki-cco’s song is a heartwarming track themed around graduation.
Created in response to Mikuni Shimokawa’s graduation, the song stands out for its uplifting message that views parting as a new beginning.
Set to a refreshing yet slightly bittersweet melody, it gently sings about cherished memories, bonds with friends, and hopes for the future.
The song holds special meaning for the members of Cheki-cco, and it has continued to be loved over the years—so much so that Shimokawa later covered it as a solo artist.
It’s a perfect encouragement song not only for students about to graduate, but also for anyone ready to take a new step forward.