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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 (21–30)

sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)SEKAI NO OWARI

Even without using direct words like “Do your best!”, SEKAi NO OWARI’s song “Sazanka” gently gives you a push forward.

It’s their 12th single and was selected as NHK’s official theme song for the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

It’s the perfect classic for softly and kindly sending off friends who have been striving together.

The camellia sasanqua’s flower language includes “single-minded devotion” and “overcoming adversity.” The lyrics are infused with the resolve to never give up on your dreams, no matter what challenges lie ahead, so be sure to pay attention to them!

something irreplaceableHirai Dai

It’s a warm song with Dai Hirai’s gentle vocals resonating in your heart.

Included on the digital EP “SURF & TURF,” released in June 2023, this track gently conveys the importance of the irreplaceable things found in everyday life.

The soft tones of the acoustic guitar and the relaxed tempo create an atmosphere that wraps around the listener.

The melody line, infused with Dai Hirai’s signature Hawaiian flavor, is also captivating.

It’s a perfect song to play at farewells, such as send-off parties or graduation ceremonies.

Filled with gratitude, it’s a track you’ll want to dedicate to someone dear.

[Farewell Party Songs] From Hidden Gems to the Newest Hits: A Collection of Classics to Color the Moment of Parting (31–40)

Youth and a momentmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Youth and a Moment” MV
Youth and a momentmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu is a rock band admired for their conservatory-trained members’ high-level musicianship and emotionally charged songs.

Released digitally in March 2019 and included on the mini-album “season,” this track is a rock number written specifically for a McDonald’s Japan commercial.

Riding on a brisk, fast-paced band sound, the lyrics sing of the fragility of youth and its fleeting brilliance.

It reminds us that the moments we once found dull can later become irreplaceable treasures.

The powerful message—that the future is unpredictable yet something we create ourselves—makes it a perfect fit for a farewell party sending off friends onto new paths.

YELL ~Yell~Kobukuro

When it comes to a straightforward, motivational anthem that gives you a push forward, Kobukuro’s “YELL ~Eiru~” surely fits the bill.

It was their major-label debut single, and there’s a story that they struggled to choose between “Sakura,” which sparked the formation of the duo, and this song for their debut.

It’s a classic that sends off those standing at the threshold of a new chapter in life with powerful words and guitar sound.

Their two-part harmony slips right into your heart and spreads with a refreshing clarity, doesn’t it? Released in 2001, it’s a timeless gem that resonates even with those who didn’t grow up with it—so why not add it to your selection?

AlwaySNiziU

NiziU(니쥬) 「AlwayS」 M/V
AlwaySNiziU

A perfect NiziU song for expressing gratitude to someone special during the season of farewells.

It also made headlines for being written, composed, and produced by Motoki Ohmori of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE.

Unlike their previous pop image, this track is a sweeping ballad that lets you savor their vocals.

It was released for streaming in December 2024, included on the mini-album “AWAKE” released in February 2025, and was also chosen as a special song for the film “The Wild Robot.” Its heartwarming melody and the members’ emotionally rich vocals make it ideal for sharing a reflective mood at a farewell party.

Why not sing it with heartfelt sincerity for friends embarking on a new journey?

BOYKing Gnu

King Gnu is a band that continues to captivate countless listeners with overwhelming musicianship and a uniquely imaginative worldview.

Included on the album “THE GREATEST UNKNOWN,” this track was pre-released in October 2021 and was written as the opening theme for the TV anime Ranking of Kings.

The lyrics portray a boy who, despite carrying his own weakness, earnestly faces forward—feelings that overlap with those setting off into a new world, offering them courage.

The contrast between the beautiful resonance of the strings and the intense development in the interlude seems to mirror the ups and downs of life.

It’s a masterpiece we’d love to dedicate as the biggest cheer for the guest of honor to conclude a farewell party, where anxiety and anticipation intertwine.

Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro 「Best Friend」 Official Music Video
Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro’s timeless classic “Best Friend” is the perfect song to give at a farewell party to express gratitude to a dear friend.

It’s a warm ballad in which vocalist Chiharu Tamashiro conveys her feelings for her ever-supportive partner, Ayano Kinjo.

Released in June 2001 as their 10th single, it’s a well-known masterpiece that also served as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Churasan.

Later, in 2016, it was chosen as the Japanese ending theme for the film The Good Dinosaur, earning love across generations.

This song, which helps you overcome the sadness of parting and reaffirm an unchanging bond, is sure to add a moving touch to any send-off scene.