[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.

10-year cherry blossomsAKB48

[MV full] 10nen Zakura / AKB48 [Official]

A song themed around graduation, parting, and reunion has arrived from AKB48 with the coming of spring.

Centered by Atsuko Maeda and Jurina Matsui, it weaves a story of farewells and reunions with fresh, vivid expression.

Set to an upbeat rhythm, its wishes for the future offer a reassuring message that resonates with the graduation scenes everyone experiences.

Released in March 2009, the single reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to during this season when partings and encounters intersect, as you reflect on memories with someone special.

SAKURA GoodbyeSCANDAL

SCANDAL “SAKURA Goodbye” / Sakura Goodbye – Music Video

A number that became one of SCANDAL’s signature early works, beautifully capturing both the bittersweetness and freshness that accompany graduation scenes.

Its message, told from a true-to-life perspective, carries a power that evokes universal empathy.

The song had existed since the band’s formation and drew attention when it was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s variety show “Mecha-Mecha Iketeru!” Its up-tempo rock sound and the sense of parting—and anticipation for a new journey—set against the season of cherry blossoms are sure to resonate as spring arrives.

It can be called a gem of a pop tune that colors a page of youth, perfect for listening to at life’s important milestones.

Don’t give up on your dreamsOkamura Takako

Takako Okamura “Don’t Give Up on Your Dreams” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

With the arrival of spring comes graduation season.

At such times, hearing Takako Okamura’s “Don’t Give Up on Your Dreams” can bring back memories of youthful days gone by, even in the most ordinary moments.

Since its 1987 release, this classic has been sung at many graduation ceremonies and used in countless settings, warmly watching over graduates as they embark on new paths.

While it may have been written by Okamura as a song about heartbreak, the indomitable spirit it carries has made it a timeless anthem of encouragement, beloved by many.

It is a wonderful song that, at any time, gives us the strength to never give up on our dreams.

Just a little longer until graduationGLAY

Just a little longer until graduation

When it comes to songs etched in our hearts alongside memories of graduation ceremonies, you can’t leave out this track by GLAY.

Released in February 2002 as the B-side to the single “Way of Difference,” this piece is a graduation song woven from TAKURO’s own experiences.

From the nostalgic handwriting found on the pages of a borrowed dictionary to the longing to reunite with friends, it delicately portrays the complex emotions felt on the verge of graduation.

Also included on the album “UNITY ROOTS & FAMILY, AWAY,” it’s a mid-tempo rock ballad distinguished by a moving melody centered on the theme of graduation.

Its lyrics, brimming with memories of the past and hopes for the future, resonate especially strongly during graduation season and strike a chord with many.