RAG MusicGraduation
A lovely graduation song

[Farewell Party Songs] From hidden gems to the latest hits: a collection of classics to color the moment of parting

Many people likely hold farewell parties during the season of goodbyes and send-offs at schools and workplaces—whether for graduations, retiring from clubs and circles, transfers, or resignations.

Music is essential for these moving moments! Some of you may be struggling to choose background music to liven up the atmosphere or songs to accompany videos played at the venue.

In this article, we’ve carefully selected Japanese songs that are perfect for farewell parties where gratitude and congratulations are shared.

They’re all classic tunes befitting a fresh send-off, so please use them as a reference.

[Farewell Party Songs] From hidden gems to the latest hits: a collection of classics to color the moment of parting (1–10)

Full-Power BoySukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Zenryoku Shonen” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / Zenryoku Shonen Music Video
Full-Power BoySukima Suichi

With its buoyant piano intro and exhilarating, fast-paced sound, this signature Skima Switch number has continued to spur many people onward.

Released in April 2005 as their fifth single, it’s also included on their second album, “Kūsō Clip.” Long beloved, it was featured as an insert song in the film “Rough” and, in 2020, chosen as the Japanese end theme for the Disney/Pixar film “Onward.” Its message of breaking through the status quo and opening up a new world makes it perfect as a cheer for those heading into a new stage—like a transfer or a job change.

If you play it to wrap up a farewell party with smiles, or to send off friends with energy, it’s sure to fill the entire venue with a positive vibe.

HarukaYOASOBI

YOASOBI 'Haruka' Official Music Video
HarukaYOASOBI

Under the concept of turning novels into music, the musical duo YOASOBI enjoys enormous popularity.

This song was created based on Osamu Suzuki’s story “Tsuki Ōji” (The Moon Prince).

The story revolves around a girl and a mug she buys, so the song’s theme itself isn’t exactly suited for a farewell party.

However, the lyrics reflect on the time spent together and express feelings of “Thank you for being with me,” which I think makes it perfect for farewells.

The tune is stylish and calm, so it’s also recommended as background music for a message video or for the venue at a farewell party.

Kitearashi

ARASHI – Kite [Official Music Video]
Kitearashi

Arashi is a group with nationwide popularity that continues to be loved across generations.

Their 58th single, released in July 2020, drew major attention for being written, composed, and arranged by Kenshi Yonezu.

Created as the “NHK 2020 Song,” the piece is notable for its grand orchestral arrangement and the rich layering of the five members’ voices.

Like a kite soaring high into the sky, its message gives you the courage to move forward even against headwinds, filled with a gentle support that accompanies moments of new beginnings.

As BGM for a farewell gathering—whether for graduation, a transfer, or any new path—it’s hard to imagine a more fitting song.

[Farewell Party Songs] From hidden gems to the latest hits: A collection of masterpieces to color the moment of parting (11–20)

together; along with; bothWANIMA

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)
together; along with; bothWANIMA

WANIMA’s “Tomoni” is the kind of song that makes you want to throw your fist in the air and sing along with everyone.

Its brisk, fast-paced band sound helps you forget the bad and painful things in life.

Lyrics like “anxious days,” “a painful past,” and “worrying” especially resonate with students preparing for exams.

Of course, it’s a song anyone can relate to regardless of age, and it really hits you deep in the heart.

It’s a perfect classic for sending off friends or colleagues without getting too sentimental!

far; distant; by farGReeeeN

Haruka is a song filled with determination and gratitude about leaving home and setting out toward one’s dreams.

Released in May 2009 as the 11th single, it’s a renowned ballad by GReeeeN and was also known as a lead track from their classic album Shio, Kosho.

It was chosen as the theme song for the blockbuster film ROOKIES: Graduation, and many listeners may find that hearing it brings back the emotions of that time.

With their rap set aside, the straightforward vocals convey a message that’s impossible to hear without tears.

It’s a moving song, perfect for farewells and new beginnings, to offer with heartfelt thanks.

MiracleGReeeeN

This song, which expresses the days we walked together as “tracks” (kiseki) and the fact that we met as a “miracle” (kiseki), is filled with straightforward love and gratitude.

It’s GReeeeN’s smash-hit single released in May 2008.

Chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama ROOKIES, it added color to the show’s most moving scenes.

The astonishing fact that it was recognized by Guinness World Records for the number of full ringtone downloads is further proof of how deeply it has resonated with so many people.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to share hope for the future while bidding farewell to friends—like club retirements, graduations, or workplace send-off parties.

If everyone in the venue sings it together with gratitude for those you cherish, your bonds will grow even stronger.

one’s true feelingssumika

sumika / Honne [Music Video] *Theme song for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Championship
one’s true feelingssumika

This song gives you the strength to move forward by laying bare the weaknesses and inner conflicts you keep hidden in your heart.

Released by the popular band sumika—known for their refreshingly crisp pop sound—as a single in January 2021, it was written as the support song for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

The lyrics portray the courage to face your inner self and take a step forward, even with trembling legs, and will likely resonate deeply with those standing at major turning points like retiring from a club activity or graduating.

It’s a perfect number for a farewell scene—not only celebrating a bright new departure, but also offering a warm cheer to friends setting out with anxieties, gently reassuring them, “You’re fine just the way you are.”