Heisei-era graduation songs roundup: iconic youth anthems from the ’90s to the 2010s

Cherry Blossom MoonSakurazaka46

Sakurazaka46 'Sakuzuki'

As graduation day gradually approaches, the reality of parting begins to sink in.

This is a song by Sakurazaka46 that captures episodes surrounding graduation and bittersweet moments of youth.

Its powerful sound conveys a sense of moving forward, and the ticking clock at the beginning seems to symbolize the time and memories that have accumulated.

It depicts a youthful, poignant scene in which someone chooses to see off a cherished person without confessing their feelings, in order to support that person’s future.

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GIVE ME FIVE!AKB48

[MV full] GIVE ME FIVE! / AKB48 [Official]

This AKB48 song delivers a cheer to friends heading down their own paths and a message about moving forward, nourished by the youth we shared together.

Its music video—featuring a lively, graduation-ceremony-style band performance—also drew attention.

The lyrics, which feel like calling out to dear friends, leave a strong impression, conveying deep gratitude and heartfelt wishes for everyone’s happiness.

It’s a song that brightens the graduation moment and stirs a positive feeling to step into the future.

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Gift SongCHiCO with HoneyWorks

Gifted Song / CHiCO with HoneyWorks

An emotional graduation song from CHiCO with HoneyWorks.

Set to a gentle melody woven by piano and strings, the lyrics convey heartfelt gratitude that’s hard to put into words, resonating deeply.

Released in February 2018, this track is perfect for graduation ceremonies and farewell moments.

Its vivid imagery evokes cherry blossoms and spring breezes, sure to bring back each listener’s own graduation memories.

It’s a song to play when you want to express thanks to someone important or when you need the courage to take a new step forward.

Just a little longer until graduationGLAY

Just a little longer until graduation

A bittersweet masterpiece you’ll want to listen to during graduation season—that’s this song by GLAY.

Centered on feelings for days gone by and the bonds of friendship, TERU’s gentle vocals resonate deep in the heart.

Released in September 2002, the track struck a chord with many listeners and has remained beloved ever since.

Based on TAKURO’s own experiences, the lyrics capture both the nostalgia of school days and the anticipation for the future.

It’s a must-listen not only for students about to graduate, but also for adults who look back fondly on their school years.

GLAY’s signature moving melody and lyrics are sure to touch your heart.

spring melancholyMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Spring Melancholy

This is a song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE themed around youth and graduation.

Written by vocalist Motoki Omori the day after he graduated from high school, it captures the genuine feelings of a graduate.

It conveys complex emotions about school life and friendships, and it tugs at your heart when you listen.

The track is included on the single “Love me, Love you,” released in February 2018, and it also has a music video.

The MV, produced in collaboration with Suntory’s “Craft Boss,” is a must-see.

It’s a perfect song not only for students about to graduate, but also for anyone nostalgic for their bygone youth.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing at karaoke.

Goodbye Memoriessupercell

[Supercell] Sayonara Memories | Goodbye Memories [HD/HQ] [ENG/ROMAJI]

A poignant song about parting in the season of cherry blossoms.

It delicately portrays the feelings of young people facing the end of their youth and a new beginning.

With lyrics that express gratitude for days gone by and hope for the future, it’s sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in February 2010, the song reached No.

7 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

The limited first edition also includes the music video, making it a work filled with memories from the final days of high school.

It’s recommended not only for students about to graduate, but also for adults who want to look back on their past.

Give this heartwarming track a listen—it will bring back nostalgic memories of your youth.

Snow in MarchMakihara Noriyuki

Noriyuki Makihara March Snow with Lyrics

This is a song included on Noriyuki Makihara’s 1991 album “Kimi wa Dare to Shiawase na Akubi o Shimasu ka?” The lyrics, which depict friends parting ways twenty days after their graduation ceremony, are striking; the motif of snow falling in March expresses fragility, anxiety, and hope.

It’s a track where Makihara’s gentle vocals and piano accompaniment truly resonate with the heart.

Although it was not released as a single, it was reappraised after being included on the 2005 compilation CD “30-35 vol.0 ‘Sotsugyō.’” It’s recommended not only for those who have experienced graduation or farewells, but also for anyone about to dive into a new environment.

A heartwarming coming-of-age song that makes your chest tighten a little more each time you listen.