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

TOMORROWMayo Okamoto

TOMORROW

With its uplifting lyrics and buoyant piano melody, this is a pep song that gives courage to listeners.

Singer-songwriter Mayo Okamoto’s debut single “TOMORROW,” released in May 1995, was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Second Chance” and became a massive hit, achieving Double Platinum status.

Its message—that strength lies beyond the tears—will surely give a powerful push to graduates embarking on a new world.

Beloved enough to be selected as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Tournament in March 1996, this song is widely cherished.

Sing it with friends at a reunion, and your memories of youth are sure to come vividly rushing back.

Graduationgagaga supi

Graduation

Gagaga SP, a youth punk rock band that continues to radiate the same appeal they had back in the day.

Their fiery, high-energy performances and gut-punching messages and vocals have captivated fans’ hearts from then until now.

This song, their major-label debut single released in 2002, was also used as the theme song for the film “Bokunchi.” The lyrics depict a man trying to cut off his feelings for someone he loves, and the clumsy way he struggles to move forward while unable to let go tightens your chest.

With its exhilarating punk sound and real, everyday-language message, it’s perfect for the season of farewells.

For those whose unrequited love didn’t come true, or who are parting ways with someone they like upon graduation, this is a song that will pierce your heart in the most painful way.

cherry blossomKobukuro

Kobukuro “Sakura”

Have you ever had the experience of memories resurfacing with the arrival of spring? Kobukuro’s 12th single, released in 2005, is etched in the hearts of many as a true classic that colors the season of farewells.

Originally a song they had been performing since their indie days, it was re-recorded for their major-label career.

Its warm, acoustic guitar-centered sound and the duo’s beautiful harmonies resonate deeply.

Chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Ns’ Aoi,” it won the Gold Prize at the 47th Japan Record Awards.

The track was included on the album “NAMELESS WORLD” and has been repeatedly selected for numerous best-of compilations.

With lyrics that set the ache of meetings and partings—and unspoken words—to a gentle melody, it resonates with romance, friendship, and the end of school days alike.

Sing it with friends at karaoke, and those memories from back then are sure to come vividly back to life.

Tsubasaandāgurafu

Tsubasa

A mid-tempo rock number marked by a guitar intro tinged with a certain wistfulness.

It’s a track by the Osaka-born rock band Under Graph, released in September 2004 as their major-label debut single.

Without relying on commercial tie-ins, it caught fire through word of mouth, radio, and cable requests at the time, becoming a long-running hit that peaked at No.

6 on the Oricon chart.

The lyrics depict the anxiety of setting out and the pain of parting, yet also the resolve to step forward with a pledge toward the future—making it a song that resonates with life’s turning points, such as graduations, moving to a new city, or taking on new challenges.

As spring approaches, many people may find themselves humming it without thinking.

Choose it at karaoke with friends from the same generation, and memories from back then will come rushing back—sure to spark lively conversation.

Where Smiles GoDREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE “Where the Smiles Go”

When graduation season arrives, the song that you can’t help but hum along to is this classic by DREAMS COME TRUE.

Chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “Sotsugyo (Graduation),” it became a milestone for the group as their first entry into the Oricon Top 10.

Showcasing the perfect harmony between Miwa Yoshida’s powerful vocals and Masato Nakamura’s masterful composition, the track features a bright, upbeat melody and uplifting lyrics.

It paints vivid images of carefree smiles in graduation albums and heartfelt reflections on one’s own growth, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in February 1990, the song played a key role in rapidly boosting DREAMS COME TRUE’s popularity.

It’s a perfect choice not only for graduation ceremonies, but also for reunions, coming-of-age celebrations, and any moment spent reminiscing with loved ones.