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

far; distant; by farGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Haruka

If you entered the workforce around the middle of the Heisei era, you might now be someone in a mid-level role within your organization.

At your major life crossroads—graduation, starting a job—wasn’t GReeeeN always there? Regarding Haruka, GReeeeN commented something like, “If Kiseki is about romantic love, this song sings about a much bigger kind of love.” The lyrics—“Leaving friends and parents behind to start a new life; someday, I’ll surely come back with a smile”—leave room for each listener’s own interpretation.

It’s a song that makes you recall school days and graduation ceremonies, one you’ll want to listen to filled with warm nostalgia.

Born on this planetSugimoto Ryuichi

[Chorus] Born on This Planet (Mixed Chorus in Three Parts)

A staple choral number written and composed by Ryuichi Sugimoto, beloved as the ending theme of NHK’s nature documentary program “Ikimono Chikyū Kikō” (Nature Walks on Earth).

Released in August 1996 as part of the soundtrack album, this piece features a melody that resonates deeply, enveloping grand themes such as the Earth and life itself.

The lyrics, which align with the sweeping sense of scale conveyed by the program’s visuals, are abstract yet generously open to each listener’s own interpretation.

Multiple choral arrangements exist—including equal-voice two-part and mixed chorus—and its continued presence at elementary and junior high school graduation ceremonies further speaks to its appeal.

It’s a heartwarming song that’s perfect for those who want to sing with hope for the future during the season of departures, or for anyone seeking a piece that can be shared across generations.

I won’t let you say goodbye.B’z

I won't let you say goodbye.

Although it’s a song about parting, it makes you want to look ahead once it’s over.

Such a mysteriously empowering track is included on B’z’s classic album RUN.

Released in October 1992, this album is known as a turning point where the band further intensified its rock sound, and this medium-tempo rock number stands out within that evolution.

The message in the title is straightforward: at the very moment of parting, they vow to meet again, conveying a strong resolve not to let the relationship end.

In the 2008 fan-voted best-of collection B’z The Best “ULTRA Treasure,” it ranked eighth, proving that despite not being a single, it’s embraced as one of their signature songs.

It’s the perfect track for graduations or farewells, for those who want to set off with their backs straight rather than getting overly sentimental.

cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (Solo)

Moriyama Naotaro’s “Sakura (Dokusho)”—the definitive cherry blossom song that no one would dispute, right?—actually had a band-performed “Sakura” that came out before the single version.

“Sakura (Dokusho)” is a different version of that.

These days, the “Sakura (Dokusho)” version is far more famous, but I feel there’s a kind of resolve or determination in that “(Dokusho)”—meaning solo vocal.

What do you think? The lyrics, which go, “We part beneath this cherry tree.

But when we meet again, it will also be beneath this cherry tree,” depict a beautifully eternal world.

It’s a song that makes you want to listen again next year, and every year after that.

GraduationZONE

ZONE “Graduation” Official Music Video

As one of ZONE’s hidden gems, this song is beloved by many fans.

Its powerful vocals and refreshing guitar sound stand out, while the lyrics poignantly capture the bittersweet milestone of graduation.

Released in February 2004, the track was rushed out as an advance single from the album “N.” It debuted at No.

5 on the Oricon chart, marking the group’s remarkable tenth consecutive Top 10 entry.

It’s a recommended listen not only for students approaching graduation but also for anyone looking to revisit fond memories.

Sing it together at karaoke, and you’re sure to share a heartwarming time.

my graduationSPEED

SPEED / my graduation -Music Video-

This is a song by SPEED that depicts looking back on memories, savoring the happiness of having met, and a strong will to keep moving forward without forgetting.

It develops from a gentle, piano-centered sound that feels like it’s speaking softly to you, into a powerful sound that conveys determination, evoking the image of stepping into the future.

The lyrics, which speak of holding memories with loved ones in your heart while moving forward, can also be felt as expressing the departure that follows graduation.

It’s a song that both rouses your own spirit and conveys a wish for the path your loved ones take to be filled with happiness.

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If I turn around…Janne Da Arc

Janne Da Arc – If I Turn Around…

This song beautifully portrays the parting of youth, perfectly capturing the feelings of students facing graduation.

The lyrics, filled with memories of school days, farewells with friends, and hopes for the future, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in February 2006, the song reached No.

2 on the Oricon charts.

It was also used as the theme song for the film “HIRAKATA,” winning the hearts of many.

Actress Maki Horikita appears in the music video.

It’s a perfect track not only for the graduation season, but also for anyone who has experienced a meaningful farewell.

Listening to this song will bring back fond memories and give you the courage to take a new step forward.