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

Before the cherry blossoms bloomkinoko teikoku

Kinoko Teikoku – Before the Cherry Blossoms Bloom

This song was the major-label debut of the rock band Kinoko Teikoku, released in 2015.

Looking at the lyrics, it portrays a protagonist who resolves to leave their hometown to make their dreams come true.

The way the protagonist sets off with the irreplaceable days of youth and the words shared with friends held close to their heart is deeply moving.

Many of Kinoko Teikoku’s songs carry a certain sentimental quality, and this track, too, resonates quietly yet powerfully.

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Hane Keisuke

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Forget-me-notMarushii

Marcy – Forget-me-not (Official Music Video)

This is a bittersweet spring song by Marcy, a three-piece rock band from Fukuoka.

The wish to be remembered even in a “distant town” perfectly suits the cherry blossom season.

The lyrics vividly capture the wavering hearts of young people, beautifully conveying the spring atmosphere where excitement and anxiety for a new life intertwine.

Released as a digital single in March 2021, sound producer Akimitsu Homma brought out the song’s pop sensibilities to the fullest.

The music video features actress Airi Furuta, drawing significant attention.

It’s a song that truly resonates with those stepping into a new environment or those who have experienced parting from someone dear.

murmurUeno Daiki

Daiki Ueno / “Zawameki” Music Video

Daiki Ueno’s music delicately portrays the joy, anxiety, and anticipation that come with the arrival of spring.

The warm tones of acoustic guitar and cello gently resonate with the listener’s heart.

The song is included on the album Shinryoku, released in April 2023, and was also chosen as the theme song for TV Tokyo and BS TV Tokyo’s late-night drama “Konkatsu Shokudo.” It’s a heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to in the spring season, especially recommended for those who have experienced new encounters or farewells during the cherry blossom season.

cherry blossomShimizu Shota

Shota Shimizu “Sakura” MV

This song, with its memorable, sentimental lyrics about seeing cherry blossoms in spring and being reminded of a former lover, is by Shota Shimizu.

One of Shimizu’s greatest charms is his beautifully clear, translucent voice, and you can feel that appeal in abundance here.

In particular, the chorus—where he switches between chest voice and falsetto—paired with the pure feelings depicted in the lyrics, is moving enough to bring you to tears.

It’s a recommended track when you’re in the mood for a calm, beautiful song.

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Hane Keisuke

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Song of SpringFujihara Sakura

Sakura Fujiwara – “Spring Song” (short ver.)

Sakura Fujiwara’s “Haru no Uta” is a cover of Spitz’s song and served as the theme for the film March Comes in Like a Lion.

It has a different charm from the version sung by Masamune Kusano; Fujiwara’s soft, enveloping voice fits the mood of the song perfectly.

The message that comes through in the film—“You’re not alone; you have companions”—gently resonates in the heart like a blessing on life.

From the intro’s steady, footstep-like sounds to the layered chorus, the colorful arrangement that evokes hope is also wonderful.

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hiyori

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spring skySuzuki Suzuki

【Graduation】Spring Sky – Suzuki Suzuki【Official Music Video】

A heartwarming spring song from Suzuki Suzuki.

Centered on themes of graduation, encounters, and farewells, it gently sings about memories and friendships from school days.

With beautiful harmonies and a refreshing melody, this piece resonates deeply with listeners.

It was released digitally in February 2022 and is also included on their first album, “313.” It has become a staple song that many people listen to during graduation season.

Highly recommended for those embarking on a new chapter or looking back on cherished memories.

S.A.K.U.R.A.Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE / S.A.K.U.R.A.

This is a song by the EXILE family, Sandaime J Soul Brothers from EXILE TRIBE, who could be said to have shaped the J-POP scene since the 2000s.

True to their style, it’s a danceable and cool track—a Sandaime-style sakura song.