Graduation Songs for Those in Their 30s: Nostalgic Classics That Rekindle Emotions & Timeless Favorites Still Popular Today
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.
Graduation Songs for Those in Their 30s: Nostalgic Classics That Bring Back the Emotion & Timeless Favorites Still Popular Today (1–10)
far; distant; by farGReeeeN
Released in 2009, GReeeeN’s song “Haruka” is a moving graduation anthem that also drew attention as the theme song for the film ROOKIES -Graduation-.
It portrays the feelings of people taking their first steps toward graduation and a new future, and many listeners continue to hear it while reflecting on their own new beginnings.
The warm, heartfelt vocals gently embrace the anxieties and hopes that come with starting a new life.
Perhaps many found support in this song when they graduated and became separated from family and friends.
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?
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.
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!
Letter ~To You at Fifteen~Angela 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.
To the futureKiroro
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.
YELLIkimonogakari
This song is a beloved staple of graduation playlists.
Its lyrics resonate as they give you the courage to spread your wings toward the future while searching for where you belong.
The message is positive: “goodbye” isn’t a sad word, but a chance to take a new step forward.
Released in September 2009, the song was chosen as the set piece for the NHK National School Music Competition’s junior high division, earning support from a wide audience.
With its warm tone, it’s the kind of song you’ll find yourself humming at graduations, reunions, and other moments of parting and reunion with dear friends.