Graduation Songs for Those in Their 30s: Nostalgic Classics That Rekindle Emotions & Timeless Favorites Still Popular Today

futureMr.Children

Mr.Children “Mirai” Music Video

Mr.Children has continued to color Japan’s music scene with numerous classic songs.

Among their catalog, this enduring fan favorite appears as the first track on the single “Yon-jigen Four Dimensions,” released in June 2005.

Many people may remember it from the Pocari Sweat commercial featuring Haruka Ayase, where the imagery evoked the sparkle of youth.

With its refreshing chorus melody and lyrics about moving forward despite inner conflict with the present, it’s a perfect fit for the milestone of graduation.

No way I’m going to cry.ikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari “Nakumonka” Music Video

Its heartfelt melody and powerful vocals leave a strong impression.

Released in November 2009 as Ikimonogakari’s 16th single, this song was written as the theme for the film of the same name starring Sadao Abe.

It’s an uplifting anthem that urges you on, telling you, even in tough times, “Don’t cry, don’t give up.” If you want to overcome obstacles or need the courage to take a step into a new environment, give it a listen!

windKobukuro

Kobukuro “Kaze”

It’s the kind of song you find yourself humming on a spring morning when you can feel the season’s arrival.

Released by Kobukuro in February 2002, this track teaches us the value of facing forward while holding onto past seasons and precious memories.

Included on the album “grapefruits,” it was also beloved as the theme song for Fuji TV’s “Uchi Kuru!?” Not only does it capture the sadness of parting, but it also conveys the hope of growing through the turning seasons, making it a great recommendation for those graduating or anyone who wants to reflect on cherished days.

The Door to TomorrowI WiSH

I WiSH “Door to Tomorrow” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

This is I WiSH’s debut single, released in February 2003.

Chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s dating reality show “Ainori,” it was a massive hit—topping the Oricon weekly chart for two consecutive weeks and ranking 6th on the year-end chart.

It’s a classic J-pop number featuring a simple, piano-centered band sound over which vocalist ai’s clear, radiant voice soars.

The lyrics, which depict the courage to step from today into tomorrow and a tender budding love, gently encourage not only students facing graduation but anyone about to take a new step.

Warm like spring sunshine yet tinged with a certain wistfulness, the melody alone will bring back memories of those days.

It’s a perfect song to sing together at karaoke with friends of the same generation, letting you share the atmosphere of your youth.

GIVE ME FIVE !AKB48

[MV full] GIVE ME FIVE! / AKB48 [Official]

AKB48, who built an era as “idols you can go to meet” and hold numerous glittering records.

Released in February 2012, this song drew major attention for featuring the members taking on instrumental performance as the band “Baby Blossom.” Although the title doesn’t include the word “sakura,” it centers on springtime farewells and new departures, delivering an uplifting message that resonates: wipe your tears and share a high-five with a smile.

Its 34-minute, drama-style music video and use in various advertising campaigns also became hot topics.

Graduation season can feel somber, but this is a go-to cheer song that gives a push toward a new world—perfect for getting everyone fired up with friends at a reunion karaoke session.

GOOD BYE MY SCHOOL DAYSDREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE – 「GOOD BYE MY SCHOOL DAYS」

It turns the shining days of youth into the strength to move forward into the future.

Here’s a perfect song for graduation season! It’s a single by DREAMS COME TRUE, released in February 2009.

The song is based on a piece vocalist Miwa Yoshida wrote in her senior year of high school, making it a truly down-to-earth graduation song.

In addition to DREAMS COME TRUE’s version, the single includes covers by ORESKABAND, actress Mikako Tabe, and FUZZY CONTROL, letting you enjoy one melody in four different arrangements.

Its bittersweet yet positive lyrics will give you the courage to overcome the sadness of parting.

Chosen as a campaign song by NHK, this track is perfect as background music to celebrate a new beginning—why not give it a listen?

Goodbye Memoriessupercell

sayonara memories – supercell

It’s a song that captures the bittersweet feeling of graduating while holding close the memories of familiar routes home and casual conversations.

Released in February 2010, it was written and composed by ryo, with vocals by nagi.

The driving sound woven from piano and strings beautifully conveys the unique restlessness of youth.

It’s also included on the classic album “Today Is A Beautiful Day,” and has long been loved as a spring staple.

In the climax of the lyrics, the protagonist musters their courage—a moment that’s sure to set your heart racing just by listening! If you have words you want to share with someone, this song will surely give you the courage to speak them.