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

SAKURA GoodbyeSCANDAL

SCANDAL “SAKURA Goodbye” / Sakura Goodbye – Music Video

This is a single released in 2009 by SCANDAL, a girls’ rock band formed in Kyobashi, Osaka, in 2006.

Although the single was released to coincide with members TOMOMI and MAMI graduating from high school, the song itself is said to have existed even before the band was formed.

Cherry blossoms mark a season of milestones—meetings and farewells—and in school life in particular, it’s a time of major change.

This song strongly conveys a sense of hope, as if sending encouragement to those setting off on a new journey while layering memories over the cherry blossom season.

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After the cherry blossoms (all quartets lead to the?)UNISON SQUARE GARDEN

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN 'After the Cherry Blossoms (all quartets lead to the?)' MV

It’s a song by UNISON SQUARE GARDEN that conveys a positive image, almost as if it’s capturing the exhilaration of cherry blossom season.

It was also used as the opening theme for the anime Yozakura Quartet ~Hana no Uta~, where cherry blossoms are a key motif—another noteworthy point.

The bustling, almost rampaging interplay of each instrument is striking, and the sense of fun comes across directly.

It’s a track that strongly expresses feelings of taking a step forward on a wave of elation, as well as emotions like release and freedom.

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Cherry blossoms, along the path where petals swirl upElefanto Kashimashi

Elephant Kashimashi – “The Road Where Cherry Blossoms Dance Up”

The 36th single by Elephant Kashimashi, released in 2009.

While many cherry blossom songs typically express the sorrow of petals scattering, this one is a positive song about walking forward with petals that “soar” into the air.

Among cherry blossom songs, it’s a rare, gutsy track that’s very characteristic of Elephant Kashimashi.

Sakura PhotographHatsuboshi Gakuen

Hatsuboshi Academy “Sakura Photograph” Official Music Video (HATSUBOSHI GAKUEN – Sakura Photograph)

It’s a moving ballad perfect for the season when cherry blossoms dance.

Released in April 2025, this song is the theme for the season event “Sakura-Mau Start Line” in the game Gakuen Idolmaster.

The gentle harmonies of the trio—Liliya Katsuragi, Sayaka Shiun, and Saki Hanami—leave a lasting impression.

It’s as if the tender melody rides the spring breeze and soars into the sky.

The lyrics, which portray meetings, farewells, and irreplaceable friendship, will especially resonate with those graduating from school.

Be sure to give it a listen during cherry blossom season.

Cherry Blossom BookmarkAKB48

[MV full] Sakura no Shiori / AKB48 [Official]

Released in February 2010, this track showcases a new side of AKB48.

Centered on themes of parting and new beginnings, the exquisite ballad eschews flashy dance performances in favor of tender vocals and harmonies.

In addition to serving as the theme song for the TV Tokyo drama “Majisuka Gakuen,” it also secured multiple tie-ins, including the AOKI “AOKI × AKB48” commercial song.

It surpassed 300,000 copies in first-week sales—the first time in seven years for a female group—and topped the Oricon weekly chart, becoming a major hit.

With a heartwarming melody and lyrics perfect for the spring season, it’s a song that makes you want to sing it at graduations, farewell gatherings, and other moments of parting with loved ones.

SakuraMyuk

Myuk – Sakura (Music Video)

A fleetingly beautiful love ballad that resonates with the heart as spring arrives.

Released by Myuk in March 2025, “Sakura” sings of lingering attachment and a sense of farewell to a loved one you can no longer meet.

Her mysterious, gentle voice seems to tenderly envelop an unfulfilled love.

Coupled with the song’s dramatic progression, it’s truly a tearjerker.

It’s the perfect track for a quiet spring night, sitting by the window and getting lost in thought.

After the cherry blossomsTani Yuuki, cross-dominance Ryo‘LEFTY’Miyata

After the Sakura [MV] - Tani Yuuki, Ryo 'LEFTY' Miyata, cross-dominance

An encouraging song delicately depicting the shift from winter to spring has been born from the collaboration between Tani Yuuki and cross-dominance.

Through familiar scenes in everyday life—like the north wind, shadows, and a bus stop—it gently embraces moments of farewell and departure, becoming a warm and comforting piece.

The song was presented as the official theme for SAKURA MUSIC FES.

2025, held in March 2025, delivering a message perfectly suited to the spring season to many listeners.

Tani Yuuki’s clear, translucent vocals blend beautifully with the elegant melody produced by Ryo ‘LEFTY’ Miyata, offering gentle solace to the heart.

It’s a track that quietly gives you a nudge—whether you’re seeking to soothe a work-weary soul or are about to take a new step forward.