When graduation season arrives, you hear graduation songs everywhere.
There are massive hits from the Showa and Heisei eras, songs that have become beloved staples of the season across generations, and new tracks released each year to mark the time of farewells.
In this article, we’ll introduce songs that were hits when people in their 30s were graduating, or that were commonly used at graduation ceremonies.
Listening to the tracks you heard back then—songs you actually sang at the ceremony or that played as background music—might bring back those nostalgic, bittersweet feelings.
They’re also great picks for karaoke at class reunions.
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Graduation Songs for Those in Their 30s: Nostalgic Classics That Bring Back the Emotion & Timeless Favorites Still Popular Today (1–10)
Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa
This is a track that could be called the very origin of Road of Major, a rock band formed from a TV show concept! Released in September 2002 as their indie debut single, it set a remarkable record by entering the Oricon Top 10 for 19 consecutive weeks despite having no tie-in.
It has continued to be loved over the years, later even being used in a car commercial in Taiwan.
With its exhilarating, fast-paced sound and lyrics that depict an unshakable bond with irreplaceable friends, it’s a song that makes your heart burn every time you hear it.
Also included on the classic album “ROAD OF MAJOR,” this track is perfect for throwing your arms around your friends at karaoke and singing together as you each set off on different paths after graduation.
Its melody, where overflowing passion coexists with a touch of bittersweetness, vividly brings back the shining memories of youth.
KanadeSukima Suichi
This is one of Sukima Switch’s signature ballads, the kind you want to listen to when the season of farewells arrives.
Released as a single in March 2004, it’s also well known as an insert song for the film “Rough” and as the ending theme on the final day of the 2006 “Nettō Kōshien.” The lyrics, set to a wistful melody, portray parting with someone important while holding on to hope for the future.
Many listeners are surely moved by its message of a strong bond that keeps people connected through song even when they’re apart.
Featured on the album “Natsugumo Noise,” it has remained beloved and has been covered by many artists.
It’s a song perfect for spring, when life changes—whether you’re taking a new step forward or looking back nostalgically on your youth.
far; distant; by farGReeeeN
Released in 2009, GReeeeN’s song “Haruka” also gained attention as the theme song for the film ROOKIES: Graduation, becoming a moving graduation anthem.
It portrays the feelings of those taking their first steps toward graduation and a new future, and many listeners continue to hear it while reflecting on their own new beginnings.
With warm, heartfelt vocals that gently embrace both the anxieties and expectations of starting a new life, this song has supported many people, especially when they found themselves separated from family and friends after graduation.
Letter ~To You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki
Angela Aki’s “Tegami ~Haikei Juugo no Kimi e~,” which moves audiences at graduation ceremonies and choral competitions, has been chosen as a chorus piece by many junior high schools since its 2008 release and continues to be loved across generations.
The song is a message of encouragement to young people standing at a crossroads where anxiety and anticipation mingle in their youth.
The concept of a letter to one’s 15-year-old self invites self-reflection while also empowering listeners to move forward.
It not only brings back memories of graduation but also serves as a cheer for the person you are now, giving you the feeling of being gently pushed forward once again.
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
This song, known as one of Yuzu’s signature tracks, was released in July 2004 and drew major attention as NHK’s official theme song for the Athens Olympics.
Its lyrics powerfully depict overcoming hardship and moving forward toward one’s goals.
In particular, the commentary interwoven with the song’s title—“The parabola traced by the piked full-twisting Tsukahara is a bridge to glory!”—remains etched in many people’s memories along with the men’s gymnastics team’s gold medal moment.
This piece is perfect not only for sporting events but also for life’s milestones, such as graduation ceremonies!
DepartureFUNKY MONKEY BABYS
An encouraging song by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS that gives you the courage to take a new step forward.
It’s the kind of track you’ll want to listen to at life’s milestones, such as graduation, starting school, or beginning a job.
Released in March 2008, it’s also known as the theme song for the film “The 700 Days’ War with the Police Officer.” Many people may have found encouragement in this song during tough times.
It gently pushes the backs of those trying to move forward despite anxiety and inner conflict.
If you’re about to take on something new, this is a song you should definitely listen to.
Song of DepartureMr.Children
This is a famous song by Mr.Children that expresses the anxiety and anticipation of a new beginning, along with the loneliness of parting with someone dear.
The positive attitude of saying “For now, goodbye,” and the emphasis on cherishing the present are particularly striking.
Released in October 2007, it was used as the theme song for the film “Sky of Love” and in commercials for NTT East.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to at life’s turning points, such as graduation ceremonies or the start of a new chapter.
Why not take a step forward, encouraged by Mr.Children’s warm vocals?