Relive those feelings from back in the day! Youth anthems recommended for the Yutori generation
For those from the so-called “Yutori Generation,” likely born around 1987 to 2004, their youth probably spans from about 2002 to 2019.
Music we listened to during our formative years has that mysterious power to pull us right back to that time, no matter how much time passes.
So this time, we’ve compiled a list of classic youth anthems recommended for the Yutori Generation.
From universally known hits to hidden gems, we’ll cover a wide range—so don’t miss it!
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Relive those feelings from back then! Recommended youth songs for the Yutori Generation (1–10)
The Door to TomorrowI WiSH
Released in February 2003 as I WiSH’s debut single, this song became etched in many hearts as the theme for Fuji TV’s romance reality show “Ainori.” Ai Kawashima’s clear, pure vocals and Nao’s delicate piano weave a beautiful harmony that perfectly captures the sweet and bittersweet feelings of youth.
The lyrics, depicting the purity of being in love and hope for the future, give listeners courage and optimism.
It’s a track that brings back memories of youthful days—fluttering hearts in love and the resolve to walk forward together.
Recommended for those taking a new step in life or anyone who wants to reminisce about their youthful years.
C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK
A signature song by ONE OK ROCK, boasting overwhelming popularity both in Japan and abroad.
Included on the album Zankyō Reference, it was released in October 2011.
Vocalist Taka pens a message to friends setting out into the world.
Looking back on their youth, the lyrics sing that even as each person heads toward a new future, there are things that won’t change—words that may ease the anxiety felt before graduation.
With a liberating rock sound that stirs the heart, this track reaffirms the beauty of friendship.
It’s a rock tune that colors youth, one you’ll want to listen to alongside your graduation memories.
You don’t listen to rock.aimyon
Singer-songwriter Aimyon, who captivates many fans with her unique perspective and expressive emotions, released this song as her third major-label single in August 2017, and it is also included on her major debut album “Seishun no Excitement.” The lyrics, born from a desire to convey the appeal of music to someone who doesn’t listen to rock, delicately portray a wistful love and resonate deeply, overlapping with memories of youth.
Set to a medium-tempo, melodious pop sound, the track highlights Aimyon’s powerful vocals.
The song has enjoyed long-lasting success, with streaming numbers continuing to climb and earning triple platinum certification.
Relive the feelings of those days! Recommended youth songs for the Yutori generation (11–20)
All of the YouthFujifaburikku
A song inspired by the fireworks at Lake Kawaguchi in Yamanashi Prefecture, the hometown of Masahiko Shimura.
It features lyrics that express the bittersweet sadness and emptiness at summer’s end, paired with a lyrical melody.
Released in November 2007, the track became one of the band’s signature songs, earning numerous tie-ins with TV dramas and commercials.
It portrays the complex emotions of young people wavering between the end of youth and a new beginning, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
When you want to look back on summer memories or after parting with someone important, you may find many parts of this song deeply relatable.
Youth PhotographLittle Glee Monster
It’s a warm, gentle song that wraps youthful memories in a soft embrace.
The complex emotions of students on the verge of graduation are beautifully expressed through Little Glee Monster’s clear harmonies.
Released in March 2015, the track resonated with many as the ending theme for the MBS program “Hayashi-sensei ga Odoroku Hatsumimigaku!” With lyrics themed around photographs, it reminds us of the preciousness of everyday moments.
For the yutori generation, it may well be the soundtrack of their youth.
It’s a heartwarming pop tune that’s also recommended for adults who feel nostalgic about their school days.
Blue SpringSUPER BEAVER
SUPER BEAVER captivates fans with moving messages and a powerful rock sound.
This track was featured as the web commercial song for Taisho Pharmaceutical’s Lipovitan D.
The lyrics vividly portray the pure feelings of youth and memories with loved ones, leaving a strong impression.
Beginning with the chorus, the song’s structure and Ryuta Shibuya’s emotionally rich vocals strike a chord.
Released in March 2016, it peaked at No.
16 on the Oricon charts.
It was also included on the album “27,” becoming one of the band’s signature works.
It’s a recommended listen not only for those nostalgic for their youth, but also for anyone in the midst of it right now.
YELLikimonogakari
A song by Ikimono-gakari that continues to resonate with many as a cheer anthem themed around the end of youth and a new beginning.
Released in September 2009 as their 15th single, it was written as the set piece for the junior high school division of the NHK National School Music Competition.
Its soothing arrangement centered on piano and strings is striking, and the lyrics send hope and encouragement for the future, gently supporting those anxious about graduation or stepping into a new environment.
The song won an Excellence Award at the 51st Japan Record Awards in 2009 and is loved by listeners across generations.
It’s a heartwarming ballad recommended both for those embarking on a new path and for those seeing off someone important.