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

March 9Remioromen

Remioromen – March 9

It was originally a song composed for a friend’s wedding, but because of its lyrics and its use as an insert song in the drama “1 Litre of Tears,” it’s become firmly associated with graduation.

Although it was released in 2004, it doesn’t feel that old—every graduation season it seems to drift in from somewhere.

The lyrics, “We graduate and start a new life, but no one is truly alone,” still resonate deeply with us.

Its calm, understated melody makes it a song you can’t forget.

I Touched an Angel!Hōkago Tī Taimu

I Touched an Angel!

A beloved medium-tempo ballad by Hokago Tea Time that moved many fans as the in-story song playing in the final episode of the anime K-On!!.

It’s portrayed as a song of gratitude and friendship from the senior members who are about to graduate to their junior, Azusa, carrying a warm message that it’s not a farewell but that “we’ll still be together as friends.” The lyrics evoke uniforms, the clubroom, and everyday scenes, giving them a universality that lets anyone who spent time as a student overlay the song onto their own memories.

Included on the album Hokago Tea Time II released in October 2010, the record reached No.

1 on the Oricon weekly chart—an extraordinary hit for a character-credited work originating from an anime.

While grounded in a band sound, the arrangement carefully delivers the melody, resulting in something that truly touches the heart.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear if you’re approaching graduation or looking back on time spent with irreplaceable friends.

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.

cherry blossomKobukuro

Kobukuro “Sakura”

A classic by Kobukuro whose opening harmonies truly resonate with the heart.

The cherry blossom–themed lyrics beautifully capture the season of graduation and farewells.

They portray complex emotions felt in the journey to adulthood—unrequited feelings, and a strong yet pure sadness—touching listeners deeply.

Released as a single in November 2005, it was also chosen as the theme song for the drama “Ns’ Aoi.” It’s a song you’ll want to hear at graduations or life’s turning points—perfect for reflecting on memories with friends or finding the courage to take a new step forward.

Its heartwarming melody and lyrics will gently give you a push.

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.

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.