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

We Look Up to You with Respect

We Look Up to You with Respect

Among the many graduation songs that are played, the one that especially stirs the heart is “Aogeba Tōtoshi,” which enjoys enduring popularity.

Sung at countless graduation ceremonies, it is cherished by many as a song filled with memories.

Born in the Meiji era as a Ministry of Education song, it features lyrics by Nobutsuna Sasaki and music by Teiichi Okano.

Its lyrics convey deep gratitude to teachers, and revisiting it as an adult brings a renewed sense of emotion.

It was even covered by SMAP, showing its appeal across generations.

Wrapped in the warmth of spring, singing this song with friends of the same generation will surely bring back the scenes of those days.

Light of Fireflies

Light of Fireflies

Beloved for many years, “Hotaru no Hikari” is a classic that resonates across generations.

With lyrics by Inoue Kaoru set to the Scottish folk song “Auld Lang Syne,” it has become a standard piece symbolizing farewells and endings, often heard at graduation ceremonies and farewell gatherings.

As the music begins, many are moved to recall days spent at school and joyful times with old friends.

Its melody has taken root as part of Japanese culture and continues to move countless people.

It’s a nostalgic song that you can’t help but hum at the start of a new chapter.

Even though it’s springKashiwabara Yoshie

Harunanoni

As if heralding the arrival of spring, the poignant song “Haru nanoni” gently carries heartfelt feelings for a cherished person on a tender melody.

Interwoven with a faint sense of nostalgia, this classic was released by Yoshie Kashiwabara in 1983 and became a major hit.

With lyrics and music by Miyuki Nakajima, it continues to resonate over time with enduring appeal.

It remains a staple at graduation ceremonies and a popular karaoke choice, and for many in their 40s, it is an unforgettable song that colored their youth.

“Haru nanoni” offers a timeless emotion that makes you want to look back on days gone by—not only in spring, but in any season.

ff (fortissimo)HOUND DOG

ff (fortissimo) HOUND DOG

A powerful rock tune that depicts passionate love and determination has captured the hearts of many as one of HOUND DOG’s signature works.

With a strong message about believing in the power of love and the importance of holding on to dreams and passion, this song stands out.

After its release in August 1985, it was featured in Nissin Foods’ Cup Noodles commercials and became a major hit, reaching No.

11 on the Oricon charts and No.

8 on The Best Ten.

Since March 2018, it has been used as the departure melody at JR East’s Sendai Station, and it has inspired cover versions by Akiko Wada and LGYankees.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you need courage to pursue your dreams or when you want to convey your feelings to someone important.

Goodbye once moreChekkāzu

Goodbye once more

A gem-like ballad that gently weaves the pain of parting, set against a scene of lights drifting beyond the window and ice clinking in a glass.

Among The Checkers’ band sound, it’s a masterpiece that delicately portrays the feelings of a grown-up love.

Fumiya Fujii’s poignantly resonant vocals and Naoyuki Fujii’s beautiful melodies tenderly enfold the end of a love that still lingers with regret.

Upon its release in November 1990, the song reached No.

7 on the Oricon charts, and it was also included on the album “THE CHECKERS THE BEST,” soothing the hearts of many listeners.

It’s a track I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who has experienced parting from someone dear with the arrival of spring.

Why not listen alone on a quiet night and immerse yourself in cherished memories?

Graduationsaitou yuki

Graduation Yuki Saito

Yuki Saito’s “Sotsugyo” is a special song for many people.

Debuting in the 1980s and loved across generations, this track delicately portrays the feelings of students facing the major life milestone of graduation.

Its lingering melody and warm vocals invite listeners back to the bittersweet memories of their youth.

With a modest vocal range and a gentle tempo, it’s easy for anyone to hum along—one reason the song has been sung and cherished for so long.

As a singular presence, it stands as a quintessential graduation song for those in their 40s.

Full of memoriesH₂O

Miyuki ending theme song: Omoide ga Ippai by H2O (Mokkyun)

With the arrival of spring comes the memorable graduation season.

Perfect for this time is H2O’s “Omoide ga Ippai” (“Full of Memories”).

Despite the many years since its 1983 release, it remains a timeless classic that resonates with many.

The song is also known as the theme for the TV anime Miyuki and became an enduring hit.

Its melody is familiar, and just hearing the chorus will instantly wrap you in nostalgia.

With its beautiful harmonies, it’s great for collaborating with friends.

Loved across generations, this song will add a brilliant touch to the memories of your graduation day.