[Showa-Era Graduation Songs] Nostalgic? Emotive? A curated selection of timeless classics loved across generations
Graduation songs are ones you start hearing everywhere from around February.
Every year, numerous tracks related to graduation are released.
And many people can vividly remember the songs that were hits when they graduated.
In this article, we’ve gathered graduation songs that were released during the Showa era and became hits.
Among these classics are songs that are still beloved decades after their release, as well as tracks experiencing revival hits on social media.
If you’re from the Showa generation, enjoy the nostalgia; if not, discover them with fresh ears and enjoy these Showa hit songs.
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[Showa-Era Graduation Songs] Nostalgic? Emotional? A carefully selected list of timeless classics loved across generations (51–60)
The last spring breakMatsutōya Yumi
A song from Yumi Matsutoya’s “Yuming” era, included on the album OLIVE.
Released in 1979 (Showa 54), it’s a cherished piece filled with memories.
It delicately portrays the bittersweet feelings of a girl on the verge of graduation.
The lyrics vividly conjure scenes from the final spring break of her school days, and the gentle melody resonates in the heart.
It has remained a beloved classic, even inspiring a 1991 (Heisei 3) TBS drama adaptation, “Rouge no Dengon.” A perfect song for those who want to bask in the warmth of spring and sink into nostalgic memories.
uniformMatsuda Seiko
Seiko Matsuda’s “Seifuku,” released in 1980, enjoys a quietly fervent following as a graduation song.
Like “Akai Sweet Pea,” it features lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and composition by Yumi Matsutoya.
Despite being a B-side, its refined melodic line captured the hearts of many.
The lyrics, where wistfulness intertwines with hope, evoke unrequited love and the radiance of youth from one’s school days.
The scene where a note with a new address is handed over gently conveys delicate emotional shifts, making it a song that softly nestles close to the listener’s heart.
See you.o nyanko kurabu
Released in 1986, Onyanko Club’s “Jaa ne” is a landmark graduation song that portrays a bright and cheerful farewell.
While graduation ceremonies often bring tears, this song turns that sadness around.
It treats parting from friends as a step toward a positive future, sending everyone off with an upbeat melody.
At the time, it became an unprecedented hit, topping the Oricon charts and winning wide affection.
As a song that energizes listeners at the major milestone of graduation, it continues to be enjoyed across generations today.
Even at moments of parting, this uplifting track is sure to create wonderful graduation memories filled with smiles.
Spring La! La! La!Ishino Mako
Delivered by Mako Ishino in 1980, Haru La! La! La! remains beloved by many as a song that heralds graduation and the start of a new life.
Its unique lyrics, which play on the phrase “San-nin no Hi” (Day of Three People), symbolize hope for a fresh beginning, and combined with Ishino’s refreshing vocals, they invite listeners into a bright springtime scene.
Unfaded by the passage of time, this song is perfect for the season of farewells and new encounters.
Let Mako Ishino’s sweet, nostalgic voice help you feel the start of spring.
Please give me wingsakai tori
A refreshing song that evokes a page of youth right before your eyes—blue skies, a gentle spring breeze, and a shimmering sun.
With freedom and hope as its themes, it portrays the delicate hearts of young people.
Released by Akaitori in February 1971, this piece has been featured in educational settings and has long been beloved by many.
Parting from friends with whom you can speak openly about anything is deeply sorrowful, but beyond painful farewells, wonderful encounters that will color your life surely await.
As you listen to this piece, why not etch the best memories with your best friends deep in your heart and take a step toward the next stage?