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

Friend ~Time to Depart~yuzu

Yuzu “Friend ~The Time of Departure~”

This song by Yuzu is a moving piece that sings of friendship and hope for the future.

Released in September 2013, it was later selected as a set piece for NHK’s National School Music Competition.

It begins with a scene of parting from a friend while looking up at the sky, and carries a message of encouragement for the journey ahead.

The lyrics portray the presence of companions who steady wavering feelings, as well as the mix of anxiety and anticipation that comes with a new departure, resonating with those facing graduation.

It’s perfect for graduation ceremonies and farewell gatherings.

The lyric about being connected under the same sky conveys that friendship endures even when you’re apart.

Letter ~Dear You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki

Angela Aki “Letter: To You, Fifteen” Music Video (HD)

One of Angela Aki’s signature songs, released in 2008.

It’s a letter from her 15-year-old self to her adult self, along with the reply.

Many people probably sang it in middle school.

It carries a message of encouragement—acknowledging the worries and confusion of youth and urging you to believe in yourself and move forward.

The lyrics are moving not only in your school days but even after you become an adult.

It was chosen as a set piece for NHK’s All-Japan School Music Competition and has been loved by many.

It’s a heartfelt song you’ll want to listen to at graduations or other milestones in life.

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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flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

It’s a classic graduation song that portrays students looking back on cherished school memories as they take their first steps toward their individual dreams.

Released in December 2011, it was selected as the required piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition, junior high division.

Its smooth melody and heartfelt lyrics are truly compelling.

The words reflect on fun-filled days, moments of conflict, and other memories with friends—experiences that will likely resonate with your own treasured friendships.

This piece is also perfect for graduation choir performances or as background music for a memories slideshow.

MiracleGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Kiseki

When it comes to youth anthems, you just can’t leave this one out! Released in May 2008 as the theme song for the drama “ROOKIES,” GReeeeN’s signature track “Kiseki” is a pure love song that celebrates the joy of meeting the person you love and the resolve to walk into the future together.

True to its title, the lyrics call the couple’s meeting a “miracle” (kiseki) and describe the path they’ve walked as a “trace” or “trajectory” (also kiseki)—a wordplay that stirs the heart every time you listen.

In 2009, it was also chosen as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, making it beloved across generations.

It’s a moving song you’ll want to play at graduations, thank-you parties, and those final moments with dear friends or a loved one, to express your gratitude.

TOMORROWMayo Okamoto

TOMORROW

With its uplifting lyrics and buoyant piano melody, this is a pep song that gives courage to listeners.

Singer-songwriter Mayo Okamoto’s debut single “TOMORROW,” released in May 1995, was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Second Chance” and became a massive hit, achieving Double Platinum status.

Its message—that strength lies beyond the tears—will surely give a powerful push to graduates embarking on a new world.

Beloved enough to be selected as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Tournament in March 1996, this song is widely cherished.

Sing it with friends at a reunion, and your memories of youth are sure to come vividly rushing back.

KanadeSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

This is one of Sukima Switch’s signature ballads, the kind you want to listen to when the season of farewells arrives.

Released as a single in March 2004, it’s also well known as an insert song for the film “Rough” and as the ending theme on the final day of the 2006 “Nettō Kōshien.” The lyrics, set to a wistful melody, portray parting with someone important while holding on to hope for the future.

Many listeners are surely moved by its message of a strong bond that keeps people connected through song even when they’re apart.

Featured on the album “Natsugumo Noise,” it has remained beloved and has been covered by many artists.

It’s a song perfect for spring, when life changes—whether you’re taking a new step forward or looking back nostalgically on your youth.