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

Maplesupittsu

Spitz / Kaede

A classic ballad by Spitz that sings, over a beautiful melody, of the ache of parting and the resolve to keep moving forward.

Included on the 1998 album “Fake Fur” and released the same year as a double A-side single with “Spica,” the song reached No.

10 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

Beloved across generations, it was featured as an insert song in the Fuji TV drama “Over Time” and later used in the 2022 series “silent.” Masamune Kusano’s crystal-clear vocals poignantly portray someone carrying memories of the past while facing tomorrow.

It’s a song we especially recommend to those who have experienced parting with someone important at the milestone of graduation.

Memories of those days may come rushing back, and you might find yourself moved to tears.

Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro ｢Best Friend｣ Official Music Video

This is the 10th single by Kiroro, beloved by many as the theme song of the NHK morning drama series “Churasan.” Released in June 2001, the song reached No.

5 on the Oricon weekly chart.

It is known as a number that vocalist Chiharu Tamashiro wrote as an expression of gratitude to her partner, Ayano Kinjo.

The lyrics, which portray feelings toward someone who stays by your side and supports you in difficult times, may resonate even more deeply in moments like a graduation ceremony, just before parting ways with friends.

Beyond being a staple at graduations, the song is often performed at weddings with part of the chorus adapted, making it a piece that accompanies various milestones in life.

In 2016, it was also selected as the ending theme for the Japanese-dubbed version of the Disney/Pixar film “The Good Dinosaur.” It’s a heartwarming ballad you’ll want to dedicate to a best friend you’re about to be separated from.

Endless JourneyMr.Children

Mr.Children “Endless Journey” MUSIC VIDEO

This is the 15th single by Mr.Children, released in October 1998 after the band fully resumed activities following a hiatus.

Chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Naguru Onna,” it topped the Oricon charts despite its length of nearly seven minutes.

Beginning with a quiet, introspective question and gradually opening up like a widening vista, the song is notable for its structure and a dynamic arrangement where band sounds interweave with strings to moving effect.

The lyrics, imbued with a will to break free from stagnation, open a new door, and move forward, are perfectly suited to the milestone of graduation.

Selected as Song of the Year at the 13th Japan Gold Disc Awards, this masterpiece is one we especially recommend to those taking a new step or facing a turning point in life.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu

Yuzu “Eikou no Kakehashi” Music Video

Released in 2004, Yuzu’s 21st single was selected as the official theme song for NHK’s Athens Olympics coverage and quickly became a nationwide anthem of support.

It peaked at No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart and sold over 300,000 copies in total.

Along with the famous commentary from the men’s team gymnastics winning gold for the first time in 28 years, it remains etched in many people’s memories.

The lyrics affirm the tears shed out of the public eye and the uneven path taken, conveying the message that the days we’ve built up have made us who we are today.

Its universal appeal resonates not only with athletes but also with people facing exams, job hunts, and many other life moments.

The song has also become a staple in choral and wind ensemble repertoires and is often performed at graduation ceremonies and club retirement events.

As you look back on your school days, why not listen once more to this classic that accompanies new beginnings in spring?

The Door to TomorrowI WiSH

I WiSH “Door to Tomorrow” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

This is I WiSH’s debut single, released in February 2003.

Chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s romance reality show “Ainori,” it topped the Oricon weekly chart for two consecutive weeks and became a huge hit, also ranking 6th on the year-end chart.

It’s a classic J-pop number featuring a simple, piano-centered band sound with vocalist ai’s clear, radiant voice.

The lyrics, which portray the courage to take a step from today into tomorrow and a faint first love, gently encourage not only students about to graduate but anyone ready to begin a new chapter.

Warm like spring sunlight yet tinged with a touch of melancholy, the melody is sure to bring back memories of those days.

It’s a perfect song to sing together at karaoke with friends from the same generation, letting you share the atmosphere of your youth.