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.

Farewell to the days of youthTHE Inazuma Sentai

Farewell to the days of youth

A powerful rock ballad that passionately sings of the ache of days that won’t return and the hope for the future.

It was included on a single released by THE Inazuma Sentai in November 2006.

This song was also used as the ending theme for the TV anime Silver Olinssis.

Loved for many years as a number that symbolizes the band’s lyrical side, it conveys a message of saying farewell to the past and stepping into the unknown, giving a strong push to those facing 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!

Graduationonsoku rain

Sotsugyo

That unique atmosphere after the graduation ceremony—a mix of loneliness and anticipation—is unforgettable, isn’t it? This song by Onsoku Line, a rock band based in Fukushima Prefecture, features a striking guitar sound that seems to drown out that very heartache.

It was included as the B-side to the single “Natsume,” released in March 2006, and was later featured on the album “Fūmi Zekka: Onsoku Line Rare Tracks.” The lyrics resonate with the determination to move forward boldly into the season of thaw, even while shedding tears of farewell.

It’s a rock tune I’d recommend to those who’d rather cry their hearts out, laugh, and step into the next stage, rather than sink into a somber ballad.

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.

graduationKato Miria

Miliyah Kato 'Graduation'

Miliyah Kato’s fifth single, released in February 2006, is a song written from the unique perspective of a then–current high school girl.

Rather than depicting graduation as a formal ceremony, it focuses on a “graduation of the heart,” freeing oneself from suffocating daily life and the pressure to conform.

Set to a beat infused with R&B and hip-hop elements, the lyrics capture a blend of defiance and vulnerability.

The track was also used as the opening theme for TV Tokyo’s music program Ryuha-R, gaining wide recognition in the late-night music scene.

It was later included on the album Diamond Princess and has come to be regarded as a song that symbolizes the struggles of the teen years.

It’s a down-to-earth graduation anthem that resonates with anyone seeking freedom amid a sense of stagnation.

To the futureKiroro

Kiroro “To the Future” Official Music Video

This song is a staple among graduation tunes.

It’s a track by Kiroro, a female duo from Okinawa, released as their second single in June 1998.

Originally, the songwriter composed it in middle school to express gratitude to her mother, but its warm lyrics also resonate with the feelings we have for those who supported us at graduation.

Its simple, heartfelt melody has been featured as an insert song in the anime “Tsuki ga Kirei” and in commercials.

Singing of hope for the new paths ahead, this moving piece gives courage in times of parting and new beginnings.

It’s sure to be a song that gently nudges someone forward.