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

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.

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.

Cherry blossom seasonEXILE ATSUSHI

EXILE ATSUSHI / “Cherry Blossom Season” MV

When it comes to moving ballads with a graduation theme, you can’t leave out this song! Released by EXILE ATSUSHI in 2014, it’s a ballad that blends gentle, piano- and string-led instrumentation with ATSUSHI’s emotionally rich vocals.

The lyrics capture the anxiety and hope felt at the milestone of graduation, along with anticipation for the future, resonating with many listeners.

It was included on the December 2014 album “Love Ballade” and released as a single in February 2015.

It also achieved commercial success, peaking at No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Frequently used at ceremonies like graduations and school entrance ceremonies, this track is perfect not only for students graduating but also for anyone stepping into a new environment.

C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK – C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h. [Official Music Video]

This song is beloved as ONE OK ROCK’s graduation anthem! It’s a track built on their signature rock sound.

The lyrics, which evoke the bonds with friends who spent time together, really hit home.

It’s included on the album “Zankyo Reference,” released in October 2011.

The title is said to come from the initials of the members’ friends.

It was also used as the ending theme for “To the Top of the World: Nobukazu Kuriki’s New Challenge.” It’s a perfect cheer song to listen to when setting off on a new path.

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.