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

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.

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.

Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (Solo)

A beautiful, heart-touching ballad that layers the transience of cherry blossoms with the changing course of life.

Naotaro Moriyama’s clear voice, together with the warm melodies woven by piano and strings, gently envelops the listener’s heart.

Released in March 2003, the song became a massive hit, selling over one million copies.

It’s a perfect piece to listen to in spring—a season of graduations, farewells, and new beginnings.

Under the cherry blossoms, as you reflect on memories with someone dear, why not take a new step forward with this song?

At dawn again today, with cherry blossoms dancingCHiCO with HoneyWorks

In the dawn where cherry blossoms dance again today / CHiCO with HoneyWorks

This is the 2017 single by CHiCO with HoneyWorks that was used as the opening theme for the anime “Gintama: Porori Arc.” It portrays partings with friends in spring and how each person heads toward their own dreams.

The fast-paced sound seems to express a positive outlook, making it a song that energizes you as you listen.

The music video also draws you in with a rich, story-driven narrative that feels like watching a full anime.

If you want to dash through spring, give it a try!

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sasashina

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Cherry blossom seasonEXILE ATSUSHI

EXILE ATSUSHI / “Cherry Blossom Season” MV

Released in 2014 under his solo name, this song by ATSUSHI, known as the vocalist of EXILE, was chosen as the set piece for the junior high division of the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

The lyrics include many depictions that look back on school life and evoke the day of graduation, making it highly popular as a choral piece for graduation ceremonies.

In the original version sung by ATSUSHI, his hallmark—an exquisitely beautiful and sensual voice—is on full display, making it a timeless masterpiece among sakura-themed songs that moves the heart no matter how many times you listen.

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Hane Keisuke

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