Speaking of autumn flowers, cosmos—written in kanji as “秋桜” (akizakura)—are famous.
Cosmos are a hallmark of autumn, appearing in the lyrics of many classic songs! In this article, we’ll introduce songs themed around cosmos, as well as songs in which cosmos appear in the lyrics.
Even among songs themed around cosmos, the feelings and messages they carry vary widely.
It’s also great to take your time listening while reading the lyrics to see what’s being sung about.
Please enjoy while imagining a landscape of blooming cosmos!
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- [For Seniors] Autumn Songs That Touch the Heart: From Nostalgic Children’s Songs and School Songs to Showa-Era Kayōkyoku
- Emotional songs that resonate in a sentimental autumn. A collection of autumn tunes.
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Songs themed around cosmos flowers. A roundup of classic autumn-evoking masterpieces! (1–10)
cosmos (flower)ieiri reo
Akishoku (Autumn Hues) stands out with its Oriental-style intro.
This rich, heartfelt ballad appears on Answer, the 2020 album by singer-songwriter Leo Ieiri, who debuted in 2012 with the single “Sabrina.” Notably, the song was written and composed by folk music master Masashi Sada and is a cover of a Momoe Yamaguchi track.
Ieiri’s vocals—sung with a nostalgic tone to match the kayōkyoku style—are a must-hear.
Goodbye, Cosmosasagīnyo
Do you ever find yourself identifying with cosmos flowers swaying against the cityscape? This song by Asagi-nyo, a multi-talented creative artist, is a pop tune of self-liberation that gently bids farewell to the impulse to simply go along with those around you.
The neatly blooming white cosmos are likened to a self that used to live by other people’s standards, and the resolve to break free from that is carried by a warm, buoyant melody.
Released in May 2022, the track also served as the theme song for a vlog-style film that Asagi-nyo herself planned and starred in.
It’s a number that, when you feel tempted to compare yourself to others, softly nudges you to walk at your own pace.
Delusional CosmosHinatazaka46
A mid-tempo ballad marked by a memorable piano, evoking flowers swaying in the autumn breeze.
Included on Hinatazaka46’s single “Zettaiteki Dairokkkan,” released in September 2024, it’s a duet by Mei Higashimura and Akari Nibu, who were both preparing to graduate from the group.
The song portrays a protagonist who overlays memories of a precious person they can no longer meet onto the vision of a cosmos field that doesn’t exist.
It’s a beautiful yet fleeting daydream, tinged with a kind of sadness that somehow feels relatable.
A sentimental yet warm number that gently accompanies the season of parting.
cosmossupittsu
Cosmos is a slow number that feels like it stays by your side on a cool, breezy autumn day.
It’s a song by Spitz, paired with the single Longing in the Sunny Window and also included on their B-sides collection, Hachō Fūgetsu.
Wrapped in a sound that drifts like a dream, it resonates gently.
This song, which sings of parting from a loved one, overlays the irretrievable passage of time with cosmos flowers, seeping quietly into that feeling of having nowhere to go.
Its delicate imagery, evoking the vivid bond between beautiful scenery and memories, makes it a quintessentially Spitz, bittersweet autumn tune.
cosmos (flower)ROTTENGRAFFTY
Within Japan’s mixed-genre rock scene, ROTTENGRAFFTY is a band with significant name recognition.
“Akizakura,” included on their 2022 album HELLO, is a standout track characterized by a distinctly Japanese sensibility themed around cosmos flowers.
Its richly evocative worldbuilding meshes perfectly with the driving momentum of loud music, delivering a sound only they could create.
The song’s curious blend—evoking nostalgia while still feeling fresh—is well worth a listen!
COSMOSMimas
It’s a masterpiece that portrays the connection between the universe and humanity on a grand scale.
Widely loved as a choral piece, it has become a staple at school cultural festivals and choir competitions.
Released in December 2010, it was also chosen as the theme song for a week dedicated to stargazing.
Performed in various arrangements, its lyrics—celebrating reverence for the cosmos and stars and the preciousness of life—have captured the hearts of many.
A perfect song to listen to while gazing at the night sky, and highly recommended for anyone who wants to feel the vast universe up close.
C.O.S.M.O.S. ~Cosmos~Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu
This song, “C.O.S.M.O.S.
~Kosmos~,” portrays the bittersweet feelings of a man and the complexities of love.
Released in 2014 as a single, it’s the autumn-themed track from J Soul Brothers III from Exile Tribe’s series inspired by the four seasons.
Cosmos flowers are synonymous with autumn, and here the swaying cosmos in the autumn breeze is likened to his girlfriend—a sad love song.
Even though they care for each other, there seems to be some obstacle in their relationship; it’s a love song that conveys a sense of longing and sorrow.
