A farewell song for a dear friend—an uplifting graduation song that conveys heartfelt gratitude.

It’s goodbye, but it’s not goodbye.yamadakatsutenai Wink

It's goodbye, but it's not goodbye.

Yamada Katsutenai Wink wraps this classic spring song—one you want to hear around graduation season—in warm, gentle vocals.

Its melody, which sings of the sorrow of parting and the hope of reunion, nestles close to the heart and gives you courage to face a new future.

Released in February 1991, the song was used as an insert track on Fuji TV’s “Hō-chan no Yamada Katsutenai Terebi” and became a major hit, reaching No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart.

With lyrics by Kuniko Yamada and music by KAN in beautiful harmony, it’s a gem of a message song that teaches us that parting is not an end but a beginning.

Listened to in the season of departures, it’s a wonderful, heartwarming cheer song that continues to be loved by many.

At dawn again today, with cherry blossoms dancingCHiCO with HoneyWorks

In the dawn where cherry blossoms dance again today / CHiCO with HoneyWorks

Among the friends who have faced various challenges together throughout school life, I think there are some who feel not just like close friends, but also like rivals.

This song is filled with a burning determination to charge forward on the path you’ve chosen, without showing any weakness to those friends who are both your companions and your good rivals.

Having someone you can call a rival becomes a source of strength and motivation for yourself.

It’s a song that conveys a resolve to your rival—not “for the sake of my friends,” but “I’ll work hard so I won’t lose to them!”

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

SAKI

Report a problem

To you, my best friend in the worldHakoniiwa Ririi

To You, My Best Friend in the World / Haconiiwa Lily [Music Video]

Hako Niwa Lily is a musical duo made up of Hanon, whose vocals are overwhelmingly powerful, and Kotoha, whose clear, transparent voice leaves a strong impression.

Their song “To You, My Best Friend in the World,” included on their major-label debut album Lily’s Plage, wraps you in an ensemble that features delicate acoustic sounds.

The lyrics, which portray the desire to express one’s feelings even if they go unreciprocated, may resonate with those who’ve had a similar experience on a milestone day like graduation.

It’s a sentimental pop tune that evokes a delicate sense of distance and a heartrending scene.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Thank you, God.Sugata Masaki × Nakamura Tomoya

Masaki Suda × Tomoya Nakamura “Thank You, God”

A heartwarming song that sets bonds with friends and everyday gratitude to a gentle melody.

Co-written by Masaki Suda and Tomoya Nakamura in August 2020, it portrays the importance of friendship—supporting one another even while facing life’s difficulties and anxieties.

Their vocals, both powerful and warm, gently convey the courage to keep moving forward and a sense of appreciation for one’s companions.

The track is also included on the album “COLLAGE,” and its memorable music video, which creates a feeling of warm encounters, features Tori Matsuzaka appearing as a photographer.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when celebrating a friend’s new journey or reflecting on time spent with friends.

Dear my friendsshela

Shela herself sang “Dear My Friends” (cover)

Even if you graduate and have to part ways with your friends, this song will surely keep your bond connected.

It’s a track by shela, a Hokkaido-born singer who is also active as an actress, released in 2005 as her 13th single.

It drew attention when it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “A Woman at a Turning Point.” With its beautiful string tones that draw you in, it’s a refreshing piece.

Parting with friends may be sad, but thanks to “Dear my friends,” you might just be able to wave goodbye with a smile.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Araki Jakkan

Report a problem

primary colorsYOASOBI

YOASOBI “RGB” Official Music Video

This song is perfect for expressing friendship.

Released in July 2021, it was also used as the theme for NTT Docomo’s “ahamo” commercial and is based on the novel RGB.

Considered one of YOASOBI’s signature works, it vividly depicts a heartwarming story in which three friends who had grown apart reunite after 15 years and rediscover their bond.

It beautifully conveys the power of friendship—that hearts remain connected even when apart—paired with a melodic composition.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who has experienced parting from or reuniting with a friend.

It’s also recommended as background music for message videos or slideshows to express your feelings to someone special.

Goodbyekariyushi 58

Kariyushi58 “Sayonara”

A bittersweet classic perfect for the season of farewells.

It stirs deep gratitude for days gone by and aching feelings for someone precious you’ll never meet again.

Released as a single by Kariyushi58 in February 2009, it was selected as the theme song for NTV’s Saturday drama “Zeni Geba,” earning the band their first Top 10 entry on the Oricon weekly chart.

Vocalist Shingo Maekawa’s warm voice and the distinctly Okinawan rhythm leave a strong impression.

This is a song that gently supports those who have experienced parting or lost someone dear.

Try listening while looking up at the sky—surely, your feelings will reach that special someone.