[2026] A Collection of Memorable Graduation Songs from the 40s [Japanese Music]

Spring ~spring~Hysteric Blue

Haru ~spring~ (春~spring~)

When graduation season approaches, there’s a song that just makes you want to hum along, isn’t there? Hysteric Blue’s second single, released in 1999, is exactly that kind of track.

Its lyrics poignantly depict the pain of parting while also conveying a strong sense of moving forward, and the title contains a double meaning that layers the season of “spring” with the idea of “leaping.” Chosen as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “Mokugeki! Dokyun,” it peaked at No.

5 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

It became a massive hit, selling about 660,000 copies, and the band even performed at that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

The song is also included on the album “baby Blue” and the best-of compilation “Historic Blue.” With vocalist Tama’s expansive high tones blending beautifully with the band’s driving sound, this work is a perfect classic for anyone looking to take a fresh step forward with the arrival of spring.

Hello, Again ~A Place That’s Been Around Since Long Ago~My Little Lover

My Little Lover "Hello, Again ~A Place That’s Been There Since Long Ago~

Just hearing the guitar phrase in the intro can instantly bring those scenes from back then flooding back—many of you may know that feeling.

My Little Lover’s third single, released in August 1995, was used as the theme song for the NTV drama “Owaranai Natsu” and became a massive hit, selling approximately 1.85 million copies in total.

The lyrical guitar riff by Kenji Fujii and akko’s translucent vocals weave a nostalgic sound that perfectly matches the lyrics, which portray both the bittersweetness and hope of leaving a familiar place.

JUJU’s 2010 cover also drew attention, and the song continues to be loved across generations.

It’s the quintessential spring classic that tightens your chest when you listen to it during graduation season—perfect for karaoke with friends from the same generation, too!

KanadeSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

Released in 2004, Sukima Switch’s second single is a gem of a ballad that portrays parting and growth.

The lyrics depict a protagonist whose view of the world was transformed by meeting someone special, trying to convey their feelings in voice at the very moment they must go their separate ways.

The powerful desire to stay connected at heart beyond physical distance truly resonates.

The song was featured as an insert track in the film “Rough” and served as the theme for Fuji TV’s drama “Sotsuuta.” In 2006, it was also chosen as the ending theme for the final day of “Netto Koshien,” becoming a memorable anthem symbolizing the end of summer and the farewells of youth.

It set an astonishing record by remaining on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 for 167 consecutive weeks.

It’s a number we especially recommend to those facing life’s milestones—such as graduation or a job transfer—or anyone who has experienced a long-distance relationship.

Primal.THE YELLOW MONKEY

THE YELLOW MONKEY – Primal.

For those whose youth was defined by The Yellow Monkey, there’s one unforgettable song.

Released in January 2001 as their 24th single, it was produced with the legendary Tony Visconti.

The lyrics were originally written with a lipstick commercial tie-in and the graduation season in mind, but the band’s subsequent hiatus overlapped with its release, elevating the track into a profound piece that conveys both farewell and new beginnings.

While retaining a hint of glam rock, its grand sound—layered with brass and intricate backing vocals—hits you straight in the chest.

It reached No.

3 on the Oricon weekly chart and marked their ninth consecutive Top 10 entry.

During their 2016 reunion tour, it was performed as the opening number, and the moment when an “ending song” turned into a signal for a new beginning moved many fans deeply.

It’s a classic we especially recommend to those meeting a life milestone with the arrival of spring, or to anyone who wants to remember who they were back then.

Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – Come, Spring

From her early days performing under the name Yumi Arai to the present, Yumi Matsutoya has released countless songs beloved across generations.

Her 26th single, released in October 1994, was used as the theme song for an NHK morning drama of the same title, topped the Oricon charts, and became a million seller with total sales exceeding 1.16 million copies.

Beginning with a striking piano intro, the melody evokes a distinctly Japanese sensibility that resonates deeply with the listener.

The lyrics, interwoven with classical phrasing, are so beautiful that they were even included in middle school Japanese textbooks.

Its worldview—imbued with a prayer for spring after a long winter—makes it perfect for graduation season, when farewells and fresh starts intersect.

Choose it at karaoke with peers, and everyone will surely sing along.

It’s a timeless song that gently echoes in the heart.