[2026] Cherry Blossom Songs to Hear in Spring: A roundup of classic J‑Pop hits about sakura

cherry (sweet cherry; cherry fruit)Otsuka Ai

Ai Otsuka / Sakuranbo (Short Ver.)

This very cute pure-love song, inspired by the image of the cherry as something “pure,” captured girls’ hearts.

It’s an energetic and adorable track that declares, “In the past and from now on, we’ll keep going happily with the power of love!”

SakuraŌhashi Torio

Ohashi Trio / Sakura

Sung by Ohashi Trio, this song delicately weaves the subtleties of the heart, pairing the fragility of cherry blossoms with the themes of parting from a loved one and embarking on a new journey.

The resolve to set out while cherishing someone and wishing for their happiness resonates deeply through the gentle vocals and melody.

Included on the album “plugged,” it was released in March 2013 and was also used as the commercial song for House Wellness Foods’ C1000.

It is a warm, gem-like heartbreak song that comforts those who recall bittersweet memories of love in cherry blossom season or who have experienced a farewell with someone dear.

cherry blossomKawamoto Makoto

[MV] Makoto Kawamoto “Sakura”

A heartwarming graduation song by Makoto Kawamoto that gently embraces the bittersweetness of youth and the loneliness of parting.

Its distinctive lyrical world delicately captures the subtleties of tender first love and friendship, highlighted by a buoyant, bouncing piano riff.

Released in April 1998, the song achieved the remarkable feat of reaching No.

2 on the Oricon chart and selling over 200,000 copies despite having no tie-in.

In the music video, Kawamoto’s determination stands out as she tackles a scene in which she eats a large array of dishes from morning despite feeling unwell.

Carried by a nostalgic melody that brings back memories of graduation ceremonies, this captivating track is one you’ll want to hear if your heart is wavering on the cusp of a new beginning.

Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46

The Only One Who Knows Is the Graduation Photo by Hinatazaka46

A fresh, springlike song from Hinatazaka46! Centered on the theme of graduation, it gently sings of feelings for days gone by.

It delicately portrays the bittersweetness of cherry blossom season and unspoken first love.

Released in January 2025 with Nao Kosaka as center, the music video unfolds a fantastical world inspired by a “parade that heralds spring.” It’s a perfect track for graduation season—recommended not only for students but also for anyone who wants to look back on fond memories.

Its heartfelt lyrics and clear, luminous vocals are sure to move you.

Cherry Blossom ForestHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Sakura no Mori (Live from “Banquet” 2021)

Starting with a depiction of an ethereal forest, Gen Hoshino’s song delicately captures the breath of life awakening with the arrival of spring.

The beauty and transience of nature, along with the emotions within the human heart, are expressed in exquisite balance, while the graceful melodies woven by acoustic instruments and strings resonate deeply.

Included as a track on his seventh single released in June 2014, it was also used as J-WAVE’s spring campaign song.

Later featured on the album “YELLOW DANCER,” this gem paints an inner landscape that quietly accompanies the cherry blossom season.

It’s a gentle, warm piece—perfect for a stroll or a drive, and one you’ll want to listen to softly during a spring evening.

Tomorrow, when spring comesMatsu Takako

Takako Matsu – When Spring Comes Tomorrow

A gem of a melody played as if to celebrate the arrival of a new season, carried by the refreshing spring breeze.

Takako Matsu’s clear voice gently wraps nostalgic memories and the hope of reunion.

Feelings for someone devoted to baseball, cherished places shared with a loved one—vivid snapshots of youth are drawn and resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in March 1997 as her debut, it was featured in an NTT commercial and reached No.

8 on the Oricon charts.

Lyrics by Yuji Sakamoto, music and arrangement by Daisuke Hinata, the song is polished and refined.

It’s perfect for a drive under gentle spring sunshine—highly recommended for those starting a new chapter or wishing to look back on precious memories.

When the warm weather lifts your spirits, this song will be there, close to your heart.

Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – Come, Spring

A celebrated song by Yumi Matsutoya that gently sings of the coming of spring.

Its lyrics beautifully depict the fragile scent of flowers and unforgettable feelings for someone, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in October 1994 as the theme song for an NHK morning drama series, it reached No.

1 on the Oricon weekly chart.

With sales of approximately 1.164 million copies, it became a million-seller.

Cherished as a school graduation song and even included in textbooks, it’s loved across generations.

It’s perfect for the season when you can feel spring’s arrival, accompanying the start of a new chapter.

Highly recommended for those about to take a new step or for anyone who has experienced a farewell with someone dear.